As beautiful as Dayton winters can be, sometimes the cold and snow can have you feeling “stuck.” Trust us, we understand… but one of the best parts about living in a new Simms Development home is that you have the peace and privacy you crave in the winter, while also being just minutes away from the action in town. If the wintertime blues have you feeling stir crazy, here’s a list of things to do in Dayton during the winter: 

Skate at RiverScape: Grab your friends, take a date, or go solo… it’ll be love at frost sight under the big tent at RiverScape! After an exhilarating or leisurely skate, take a break and warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and look out over the gorgeous Great Miami River. Nothing says wintertime better than that.

Take a (Winter) Hike: What’s more refreshing than a chilly, scenic hike under the sun? With 20+ MetroParks and conservation areas to explore around Dayton, you can enjoy the serene sights and sounds of frozen waterfalls and lakes. The best part? No bugs to bother you on your hike. (We know, say no more.)

2nd Street Market: If you enjoy the taste of fresh, local food and supporting local vendors, you’ll love browsing this community-oriented market. Full of local vendors, artisans, and culinary delights, you can pick up delicious food to fill your belly and even something to keep you warm like a scarf or gloves.

Yellow Cab Tavern: Can’t get enough of local fun? Check out Yellow Cab Tavern, a community space and tavern that hosts live music events with craft brews on tap as well as food truck rallies (when the weather gets a little bit warmer). In the heart of winter, enjoy a great show with good friends, good food, and good drinks!

Coffee District Along Wayne Avenue: It’s no surprise that in Dayton, we love our coffee. Come get your buzz on and enjoy the distinct aromas (and all of the vibrant fun) along Wayne Avenue, Dayton’s unofficial coffee trail. Spend your mornings or afternoons with baked goods and try out a new kind of brew.

Urban Krag: If you’re the adventurous type, Urban Krag is your heaven on earth… This rock climbing gym provides a fun, challenging workout as you figure out how to get to the top of the wall. No experience needed! P.S. Keep your eyes open for ax throwing, bocce ball, and giant pong coming to the Fire Blocks District.

Museums Galore: With the National Airforce Museum, International Peace Museum, and Dayton Art Institute, there’s so much to explore. Check out pieces that the Wright brothers created, marvel at the structures in the missile gallery, and let your children embrace their creativity with classes and workshops at the Art Institute. 

Down to a Science: Are you a sucker for all things science? Do your children enjoy learning about technology? The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a world of wonders that you can’t help but love. A supercharged sensory experience full of interactive learning, this unique museum is perfect for all ages.

Local Art: If you’ve been bitten by the art bug and want to see the work of local artists, check out the Contemporary Dayton (Visual Arts Center), Dutoit Gallery, K12 Gallery & TEJAS, or the student galleries at Wright State, University of Dayton, and Sinclair. You can also take classes at the Rosewood Arts Center!

Comedic Relief: Need a good laugh? Dayton’s thriving theater and comedy scene guarantee endless fun with performances at the Loft Theatre, Schuster Center, and Victoria Theatre. For unscripted shows and stand up, check out Wiley’s Comedy Club and The Black Box Improv Theater (bonus, it’s BYOB)!

From all of us at Simms Development, we hope you enjoy wintertime in Dayton!