I have a long history with Dayton, since my cousins lived there when I was a kid. Been going to the USAF museum since the first big buildings opened, and have watched the expansions every decade or so. But there is a lot more to Dayton. Yes, Wright-Patt is central to the city, but Delco, NCR, the universities, and more add to the culture and economy. There's a decent food scene. I discover more hidden gems on every trip. There are several good breweries. The city has had some down times, but is coming back strong. The base helps, and other draws like the amazing Art Institute, Carillon Park, the Packard Museum (in an old dealership) and more. Some pretty impressive parks and trails that I have just barely begun to explore. Not far from Cinci and Columbus, and Miami in Oxford, Dayton is worth the hour or so drive. Spend a day, have some fun, eat something good. read more

Being a local tourist extends out to one of my favorite destinations, Dayton. Yeah folks, I really just said Dayton. Now before your brain goes "Air Force Museum, strip clubs and meh food" there are some things I want to share with you about this interesting city. First of all, they have a great craft beer scene here. I can tell you that their brew scene is easily equal to anything that Columbus and Cincinnati is offering up these days. I'm working my way through my bucket list with Carillon Brewing, Toxic Brew, Warped Wing, Eudora Brewing Co. and Dayton Brewing Company all coming to mind. If beer isn't your thing, then I'd recommend The Belle of Dayton Distillery. They make their own rum and vodka and it's a great place to settle in, have a drink and enjoy the local cool spot called The Oregon District. The Oregon District, by the way, is a great urban downtown neighborhood. It's bohemian, trendy, gritty, cosmopolitan and it's a great place to have lunch, dinner and cocktails. It's one of the prime areas to get out of your car and explore all the little shops and boutiques that inhabit the area. Look up some of the reviews and I bet you'll be ready to head over and explore one of the cool spots of this Midwestern city. Now how can we talk about Dayton and not mention Wegerzyn Gardens and The Cox Arboretum? Both are wonderful green spaces that are true gems in this city. For those folks that prefer to get into nature while pedaling over and around, check out the Miami Valley River Trail. With 330 miles of bike trails, it's the largest system in the US. If you're not so much into nature, of course the National Museum Of The United States Air Force is world renowned and visited by people from all over the world. I'm sure some of them also find their way to The Dayton Art Institute, Carillon Historical Park, America's Packard Museum and one of the favorites for the folks with kids and grandkids: The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. And lastly, for the foodies: Check out Dorothy Lane Markets. There's 3 of them and all are worthy of a visit although the Washington Square location on Far Hills is my favorite by far. Just go there and be impressed. So there you have it. Dayton. I'm having a great time exploring the area and I hope you do too. A solid 4 stars. read more

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Dear City of Dayton (and surrounding areas), I love you! I have lived all over the globe, moving every couple years over the last nearly 30 years, and finally, finally, I have found a place I am happy. There is so much to do here! So much to see, and that coming from someone who has lived in places like Las Vegas and overseas in different cultures. The locals who grew up here are plentiful and of such kind demeanor! It's as if people aren't clamoring to move away the second they become of age! Amazing. There are so many things of interest, traditions, holiday events, great colleges, theatre, musical events, sporting events, outdoor opportunities for those inclined to enjoy a little sunshine and free family friendly celebrations! The number of little communities within this big community astounds me! Oh, the metroparks! The many museums like the Boonshoft and Air Force alike are more than wonderful to have year round. There are so many wonderful restaurants and local craftsman, local chocolatiers (Esther Price anyone?) How about the hand made pizza parlours like Spinozas? This area is just bursting with life and creativity and zest for living. I love being here with you. I love you Dayton! Thank you for being my home. Yours truly, The Woman Who Thought She'd Never Be Happy Anywhere read more