The 51 Best Things To Do in Dayton In Winter (2024)
Want to know all the best things to do in Dayton in Winter? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know!
With the cold weather and unpredictable snow, it can be hard to get out and about in Dayton during the Winter months.
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Things To Do In Dayton In Winter
When you’re bored of being stuck at home, here are some of the best things to do in Dayton in Winter.
➡️ Visit Some Of The Local Museums
Luckily, most of the museums in Dayton are indoors, so you don’t have to worry about the cold.
Here are the more popular museums you should visit at least once.
1. America’s Packard Museum
Address: 420 S Ludlow St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
During the Winter they are open Wednesday through Sunday from 12 pm – 5 pm.
Tickets are only $10 for adults, $5 for seniors 65+ and free for students with a photo ID.
Plan to visit for about 2 hours to check out all the historic cars.
2. Take a tour at Carillon Historical Park
Address: 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton, Ohio 45409
If you’re looking for something educational and interesting to do in Dayton during winter, visit Carillon Historical Park.
Here visitors can explore various historical exhibits as well as take guided tours of different buildings and grounds on the park.
Spend an afternoon learning about the history of Dayton.
With its rooftop observation tower, several museums and interactive exhibits, this is a great spot to explore during the winter.
3. Explore The Dayton Art Institute
Address: 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, Ohio 45405
Immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Dayton Art Institute.
With exhibitions and events throughout the winter, this is a great spot to explore and find inspiration.
4. Visit Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Address: 2600 Deweese Pkwy, Dayton, Ohio 45414
With interactive exhibits and activities for all ages, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a great place to explore during the winter months.
It’s especially great for toddlers and elementary aged children.
Check out their planetarium shows too!
5. Visit SunWatch Indian Village
Address: 2301 West River Road, Dayton, Ohio 45417
Walk through the archaeological site and learn about early Native American life at SunWatch Indian Village.
6. Take a self-guided tour of the Air Force Museum
Address: 1100 Spaatz St, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433
Get up close and personal with some incredible aircrafts from all over the world at the Air Force Museum.
Follow the museum’s self-guided tour to learn all about these magnificent pieces of history.
Take a trip back in time at the National Museum of the US Air Force.
From retired aircrafts to memorabilia from World War II, this museum has something for everyone to enjoy. And it’s free to visit!
7. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
Address: 16 S Williams St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
Learn about Dayton’s aviation history with its various exhibits and interactive displays, this is a great way to get to know the city.
8. Dayton International Peace Museum
Address: 10 N Ludlow St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
This museum was founded in 2004.
It was created to honor the 1995 Dayton Peace Accords that ended the war in Bosnia.
The Dayton International Peace Museum hopes to raise awareness of nonviolent ways to achieve peace.
9. Paul Laurence Dunbar House
Address: 219 N Paul Laurence Dunbar St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
Paul Laurence Dunbar was a poet and author back in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
This house is one he purchased for his mom and lived in with her until he died.
The house has been protected as a National Historic Landmark and has stayed true to how it looked back in 1906 when Paul Laurence Dunbar died.
10. Mound Cold War Discovery Center
Address: 1075 Mound Road, Miamisburg, Ohio 45342
Mound Laboratory made significant contributions in the Nuclear Age, with their technologies that supported NASA.
Mound is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.
11. The Miami Valley Military History Museum
Address: 4 E Main Street, Fairborn, Ohio 45324
This museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.
The Miami Valley Military History Museum highlights the history of the local area from the Revolutionary War to today and how it has played a part in the larger military history of the US.
12. WACO Air Museum
Address: 1865 S County Road 25A, Troy, Ohio 45373
This museum highlights the WACO Aircraft Company which manufactured planes in the 1920s and 1930s.
WACO is open every day but Wednesdays.
During the week they are open from 9 am -3 pm and on weekends they are open from 12 pm – 5 pm.
Admission is only $6 for adults, $5 for military with ID, $3 for students, and free for children under 4.
You can also come here to ride in an open cockpit bi-plane on weekends during Summer and Fall.
➡️ Play Indoors
If you’re looking for some indoors activities, Dayton has plenty of them to entertain you during the Winter months.
13. Check out A Trampoline Park
Dayton has a few trampoline parks in the area.
Get Air has locations in Huber Heights and Miamisburg.
Get Air has trampolines, foam pits, dodgeball, slamball, ninja obstacles, and more.
Sky Zone has a location in the Kettering/Centerville area.
Sky Zone offers an annual pass for $179.99 that is good for 2 hours a day every day.
Get your heart racing with some indoor trampolines, dodgeball courts, basketball, a foam zone, jousting, a skyladder, a rock climbing wall, and parkour.
This family-friendly attraction is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Usually there are designated times to visit with toddlers so they can have their own fun too.
14. Go Bowling
There are many bowling alleys throughout the Dayton area.
Some popular ones are Poelking Lanes (Poelking on Wilmington in Dayton Poelking Lanes South in Centerville, and Poelking Woodman Lanes in Kettering), and Beaver-Vu in Beavercreek.
Poelking Lanes on Woodman has a 2 story laser tag arena, pool tables, craft beer, pizza, an arcade and more.
Poelking Lanes South has pool tables, craft beer, pizza, an arcade and more.
The original, Poelking on Wilmington, has pizza, pool tables, darts, craft beer, and more.
Beaver-Vu offers cosmic bowling on Friday and Saturday nights from 10 pm – close for only $35 per lane (up to 6 people).
Strike up some fun with a night of bowling!
Head over to your local bowling alley for some tasty food and great times with family or friends.
15. Test your skills at Escape Room Dayton
Put your problem-solving skills to the test as you try to solve different puzzles in this immersive experience located in downtown Dayton.
Great Escape Game is located in Beavercreek.
Every escape room is private, so you won’t have to play with others if you don’t have a full team.
Their themed rooms include Bank Vault, Tomb, Area D Nuclear Facility, Outbreak, Prison Break, and Western Saloon.
It’s $27.99 per person and you can use promo code UNLOCK to save $2 off per person Mondays through Thursdays.
Breakout Games is another escape room in Centerville.
Their themed rooms include Submarine Survival, Runaway Train, Mystery Mansion, The Kidnapping, Island Escape, Museum Heist, Hostage.
Breakout Games is also a private escape room where you don’t play with other groups.
You can use promo code WEEKDAY10 for 10% Mondays through Thursdays.
16. Laser Tag
Address: 533 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Centerville, Ohio 45459
Other than the bowling alley with a laser tag arena, there is another place that exclusively is for laser tag.
Laser Web in Centerville not only offers laser tag, but now they have virtual reality experiences, a laser maze, and an arcade.
Laser Tag games run every 20 minutes from open to close and is only $8.50 per game.
There are several game modes like team games, solo games, zombie infection, and others.
Laser Tag is recommended for ages 6 and older.
17. Round1
Address: 2727 Fairfield Commons Blvd, Beavercreek, Ohio 45431
Round1 offers bowling, arcade games, karaoke, billiards, and more.
After 8 pm, anyone under 18 must be accompanied by their guardian.
After 12 am, anyone under 21 must be accompanied by their guardian.
Round1 is open every day from 10 am to 2 am.
18. Scene75 Entertainment Center
Address: 6196 Poe Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45414
Scene75 offers over a dozen different indoor and outdoor attractions including an arcade ($0.25-$3), indoor go-karts ($10), laser tag ($8.50), tsunami roller coaster ($7), a 35 foot drop tower ($5), blacklight mini golf ($6), sunset mini golf ($6-$9), inflatables ($8), batting cages, a double decker carousel ($3), mini bowling ($5), 4-D motion theater ($5), bumper cars ($5), and sand volleyball.
They are currently open Wednesdays through Sundays.
➡️ Play Some Winter Sports
Dayton has lots of indoor and outdoor spaces to play sports all season long.
19. Take Advantage Of Open Gyms at The Kettering Rec Center or Local YMCA’s
The Kettering Rec Center has an indoor ice rink with open skate times almost daily.
Some are adults only and some are for all ages.
The indoor pool also offers open swimming times almost daily, along with water workout classes.
There are also open gym times for indoor volleyball and basketball games.
You can also come to the Kettering Rec Center for fitness classes.
Just check their website for their schedules each month.
There are also 12 local YMCA facilities with open gym, swim, and fitness class schedules.
There’s the Coffman YMCA in Springboro, Downtown YMCA in Dayton, Fairborn YMCA, Grand Lake Health/Premier Health North YMCA in Celina, Grand Lake Health/Premier Health South YMCA in Minster, Kleptz YMCA in Englewood, Preble County YMCA in Eaton, South YMCA in Kettering, Trotwood YMCA, West Carrollton YMCA, Xenia YMCA, and the YMCA at the Heights in Huber Heights.
20. Go Sledding
From your own neighborhood to more established sledding spots, there are plenty of hills throughout Dayton to go sledding, or even tubing.
With tons of hills to choose from, there’s sure to be one that fits your speed preferences!
21. Go ice-skating on the Riverscape Ice Rink
Address: 111 E Monument Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45402
Get your skates on and glide around the Riverscape Ice Rink!
This popular ice rink is open during wintertime, so you can enjoy the fresh air while having a fun day out.
They offer beginners’ lessons, open skating, broomball, curling, hot chocolate, and music.
You can even get season passes for individuals or families from $40-$120 that includes skate rentals.
Regular admission is $7 and ice skate rentals are $3.
Most days they are open in the afternoons until about 5 pm, but on weekends they stay open until 10 pm.
➡️ Check Out The Latest Movies In Theaters
It’s easy to sit at home and binge all the movies you want on Netflix, but if you’re looking to get out and about, a movie theater is a great option in the Winter.
22. Catch a Show at The Movies
It’s time to cozy up in front of the big screen and enjoy some films at The Neon Movies in Dayton.
This independent movie theater is showing a variety of titles all winter long.
Or check out whatever theater is closest to you and see the latest blockbuster.
Check their websites before you go and see if/when they offer any discounts or deals.
Some theaters now offers dine-in options where you can get dinner and a movie or dinner and drinks.
➡️ If The Weather’s Nice, Head Outdoors!
If it’s one of those rare days where the sun is shining and it’s 50+ degrees outside, it may be time to head outdoors.
23. Take in the beauty of Wegerzyn Gardens
Address: 1301 E Siebenthaler Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45414
Even though it’s cold outside, you can still appreciate nature in all its glory!
Pack your warm coat and head over to Wegerzyn Gardens to enjoy some stunning natural scenery during winter time.
24. Enjoy a Winter Hike in John Bryan State Park
Address: 3790 State Route 370, Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Take advantage of the temperatures and explore John Bryan State Park.
This nature preserve has over 6 miles of hiking trails, so you can enjoy the winter scenery without breaking a sweat.
25. Caesar Creek State Park
Address: 8570 E State Route 73, Waynesville, Ohio 45068
Caesar Creek offers hunting, fishing, camping, mountain biking, a nature center, and a pioneer village nearby.
There are also some waterfalls and a swinging bridge you can explore out hiking.
26. Aullwood Audobon
Address: 1000 Aullwood Road, Dayton, Ohio 45414
The Aullwood Nature Center and Farm are in 2 separate locations, just a 5 minute drive from each other.
Admission is good for both places.
If you’re looking for outdoor fun, head over to Aullwood to explore the walking trails, interactive exhibits, and more.
➡️ Enjoy The Arts
Dayton has several performing arts venues with many popular shows during the Winter season.
27. Check Out a Show at the Schuster Center
Address: 1 W Second St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
Get your tickets to one of the many shows hosted by the Schuster Center.
From Broadway musicals to concerts, there’s something for everyone at this amazing venue.
Just this season alone there are wine dinners, Les Mis, an 80s Tribute show, Grimmz Fairy Tales, R&B Kickback, Tchaikovsky, and more.
28. Experience the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra
Address: Box Office – One West Second Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
Enjoy a night of classical music with the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra.
With world-class performances, this is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance consists of the Dayton Ballet and the Dayton Opera as well, so check out the ballet series, opera series, masterworks series, superpops series, rockin’ orchestra series, family series, and special events.
39. Attend a Show at Victoria Theatre
Address: 138 N Main St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
Check out a performance at the historic Victoria Theatre.
From comedy shows to musicals, you’re sure to find something to enjoy here!
40. Enjoy a night of live music
Get your groove on at one of Dayton’s many live music venues.
From intimate jazz lounges to larger rock concerts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Or even just a local restaurant that offers live music.
➡️ Try Your Luck at Gambling
If you’ve got the means and you don’t develop a habit, a day of gambling may be a fun activity in the Winter months.
41. Hollywood Gaming
Address: 777 Hollywood Blvd, Dayton, Ohio 45414
Take a chance at Hollywood Gaming and try to win big!
The casino has slots and a sportsbook for hours of entertainment.
➡️ Catch a game at the University of Dayton Arena
Have you ever been to a Dayton Flyers basketball game before?
42. Dayton Flyers Basketball
Address: 1801 S Edwin C Moses Blvd, Dayton, Ohio 45417
Cheer on the Flyers during one of their many basketball games at the University of Dayton Arena.
It’s a great way to show your school spirit and stay warm.
Also they serve Donatos Pizza, so you get good food too!
➡️ Check Out Some Seasonal Winter Festivities
Bundle up and join in on all the fun holiday festivities.
43. Clifton Mill
Address: 75 Water St, Cedarville, Ohio 45503
Clifton Mill has probably the best Christmas lights display in all of Dayton.
It’s a little ways outside of town, but it’s worth seeing at least once.
44. Christmas On Campus at UD
Address: 300 College Park Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45469
Every year on December 8th, the University of Dayton hosts this event.
Students are paired with local elementary school students for the night of fun and games.
It’s open to the public, but mainly alumni and their families are the ones who attend.
There’s games, arts and crafts, food, performances, and Christmas lights all throughout campus.
45. Dayton Holiday Festival
This festival has been hosted in Downtown Dayton since 1972.
The next one starts Friday, November 24, 2023 (Thanksgiving Weekend).
The festival kicks off with a tree lighting and parade.
There is also live entertainment, reindeer, gingerbread houses, a street fair with free carnival rides, horse drawn wagon rides, a holiday village with free crafts, and a junior scavenger hunt.
46. Woodland Lights
Address: Countryside Park, 895 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Township, Ohio 45459
Woodland Lights is a half-mile long paved path of holiday lights.
This event runs November-December in the evenings.
Enjoy a ride on the Rieck Express train on another path of holiday lights.
Get your picture with Santa and enjoy carriage rides.
There are also designated pet nights.
47. Check Out Christmas Lights In Your Neighborhood
You can also always drive your own neighborhood or neighborhoods near you that are known for their holiday lights.
➡️ Spend an afternoon at Second Street Market
Head downtown for some fresh, local foods.
48. Second Street Market
Address: 600 E Second St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
Shop around for some delicious food and unique gifts at Second Street Market.
This outdoor market is filled with local vendors, so you’re sure to find something special!
It’s open Fridays 11 am – 3 pm, Saturdays 9 am – 3pm, and Sundays 11 am – 4pm. Plus parking is free!
➡️ Visit a Local Brewery or Winery
Craft beer is huge in Dayton, so warm yourself up with some in the Winter months.
49. Warped Wing Brewery
Address: 26 Wyandot St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
This Dayton location is the original taproom.
But there are additional locations in Springboro and Mason.
Their tap menu is always changing, but you can generally expect to see some IPAs, lagers, Ales, Cider, and even some non-alcoholic options.
50. The Dayton Beer Company
Address: 41 Madison Street, Dayton, Ohio 40402
The Dayton Beer Company was started in 2010 with a European style beer hall Downtown, just outside of Fifth Third Field.
They always have several beers on tap, seasonal beers that change each month, and limited release beers that are first come first serve.
The Dayton Beer Company has done so well they even offer some of their beers in grocery stores now.
51. Brandeberry Winery
Address: 5118 W Jackson Road, Enon, Ohio 45323
Wine tastings are available except when there is live music.
Brandeberry specializes in fruit wines and you get to keep your glass!
There are lots of different unique flavors that are on the lighter side, so if you’re new to wine or prefer white wines, you’ll enjoy these.
What Is The Weather Like In Dayton In Winter?
Dayton’s winter weather is generally cold but variable.
Average temperatures range from around 20-30 degrees Fahrenheit (or -6-1 degree Celsius).
Additionally, precipitation levels vary significantly with snowfall usually occurring between November and March.
The region also experiences occasional ice storms which can affect travel conditions.
To stay safe during the winter months, make sure to dress appropriately for cold weather and be mindful of changing weather conditions when you’re out and about.
With a variety of weather patterns there are plenty of things to do in Dayton in Winter.
More Things To Do In Ohio
While you’re out enjoying all the best things to do in Dayton in Winter, check out some of the top local restaurants or take a day trip to neighboring Cincinnati or Columbus!
✅ Best Restaurants in Dayton
From the regional favorites like Skyline Chili, to some of the best pizza places in the world, there are endless dining possibilities here.
✅ Day Trip To Columbus
This itinerary in particular is great during the Winter months.
We did it in January!
✅ Day Trip To Cincinnati
This is another itinerary that can be done any time of year, but we happened to do it in Winter.
Conclusion: Best Things To Do In Dayton In Winter
The colder weather doesn’t mean you can’t have fun in Dayton!
With all the activities to do in winter, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.
So don’t let the chill keep you from having a great time—get out there and start exploring the best things to do in Dayton in Winter.
