What to do near Dayton (Cincinnati, Fairfield: loft, theater, university)

[kelcolo]

We are new to the area and are located about 1/2 way between Cincy and Dayton. We like to check out everything about an area.. We've spent time south... now need to work our way north. What is there to do near Dayton? Does the downtown have more going on during a Saturday afternoon than downtown Cincinnati (which was nothing going on -- restaurants were even closed). Touristy suggestions are OK too! Thanks.

[maestro]

Wright Patt Area Force Museum is probably the biggest (only?) draw.

some decent shopping over in Beavercreek.

[wrightflyer]

But better shopping can be found south at Kenwood Town Center.

Ditto on the Museum. Downtown Dayton is probably even more empty then Cincinnati. The exception might be when the Dayton Dragon's play (AAA Baseball, one level below professional). That would be a fun outing, especially for a family. Also, there's the 2nd Street Market, but that probably pales in comparison to some of the markets in Cincy. Now, the place to spend an evening would be the Oregon District which is just east of downtown on E. 5th St. There are plenty of restaurants and galleries there.

Also, try Yellow Springs, which is a good day trip to a small liberal village in the middle of rural/conservative Ohio.

[gizmobizmo]

If you like broadway style shows, try the "LaComedia Dinner Theater" in Springboro.

If you like shopping, try "The Greene" off I-675 and Indian Ripple Road or "The Fairfield Commons Mall." off 675 in Beavercreek.

The Oregon District in downtown Dayton has an eclectic mix of funky shops, bars and restaurants. It is on East Fifth Street, between Jefferson and Wayne Avenue.

If you are looking for an awesome market, try Dorothy Lane Market. One is in Springboro on Springboro Pike (SR 741) and the other is in Centerville at SR 48 and Whipp Road. They have lots of specialty items that you won't find at other supermarkets.

See a Dayton Dragons baseball game.
See a UD Flyers basketball game.

Visit the Air Force Museum

[maestro]

forgot about Yellow Springs. Though it's not actually Dayton, it's a nice day trip. Head to Youngs Dairy. Great ice cream and the outskirts around there can be very scenic (when it's not too cold).

Forgot about the Oregon District, it's pretty good for bar-hopping.

[kelcolo]

Thanks! I already discovered Dorothy Lane market in Springboro. Just love that store!! I'll check out LaComedia - have driven by many times and I enjoy plays and musicals. The Air Force museum sounds like something good to do on a cold winter day.... By the way, is the current weather 'normal'? I guess I thought it would be warmer here in November!!

[wrightflyer]

It's been a little colder then usual. Watch it warm up into the 50's in a week or two.

[Ohiogirl81]

Lots of things to do in Dayton:

Dayton Art Institute
University of Dayton/Wright State University drama and art productions
UD Flyers basketball, baby!!!
Carrillon concerts at Carillon Park
Wegerzyn Gardens or the Cox Arboretum
Summer concerts at Triangle and Island parks
Take a walk in Woodland Cemetery and look for the graves of famous people
Miamisburg Mound
Drive up to Ludlow Falls to see the Christmas display
Clifton Mill
Aullwood Farm
Hiking at John Bryan State Park
Packard Museum

[gizmobizmo]

Clifton Mill is a must see during the Christmas season and Clifton Gorge offers some nice hiking during the warmer months. It is near Yellow Springs and and easy drive up 675 from the Dayton area.

Happy Holidays from Clifton Mill

Ludlow Falls also has a nice Christmas Display each year.

tdn-net.com | Community Information

Take a look at any of the performing arts centers such as The Victoria Theater, The Schuster Center and The Loft Theater for plays and musicals. All are in downtown Dayton.

Victoria Theatre Association – Dayton, Ohio

Then there is the Dayton Ballet. They always do a very nice performance of The Nutcracker each Christmas season.

Dayton Ballet

You already missed it but next year, check out the Oregon District's Halloween bash. They close off Fifth Street in "the District" and have loads of fun. Live bands and hundreds of people roaming around in costume.

[Daytonnatian]

Also, this should be pretty cool In Dayton. It's happening on Friday, November 28th

Grande Illumination

Also, Dayton's Schuster center is awesome, and for younger kids, the Boonshoft museum and Sunwatch Indian village are pretty cool.