Downtown Dayton, Ohio, has undergone an exciting revival in recent years. If you haven’t experienced the Gem City for a while, plan a visit. Schedule more than a day though, because there’s so much to see. Charles Simms Development has narrowed the list to give you the top 7 things to do in Downtown Dayton, so you can focus on the best of the best.

#1. Wander through the Oregon Historic District. This is on the top of the list for a good reason. There is something for everyone to enjoy in this section of Downtown Dayton with buildings that date back to the early 1800s. East Fifth Street was named one of the five “Great Streets in the U.S.” for its “true sense of place, cultural and historical interest, community involvement, and a vision for the future.” Eclectic shopping, dining, culture, entertainment, and events are always available in the Oregon Historic District.

#2. See a show at the Victoria Theatre Association. This not-for-profit theater association presents a wide variety of performances throughout the year. You can sit in the audience for comedy, dance, musicals, dramas, children’s theatre, motivational presentations, and live acts, or take a class, workshop, or camp.

#3. Take a trip back in time and space. Dayton is a haven for museum buffs. Among them, the National Aviation Hall of Fame and the National Museum of the Air Force are must-see’s for everyone in the family. For more than 50 years, the NAHF has been honoring our country’s rich heritage of aviation innovation and exploration. Visitors can follow history back to the Wright Brothers through the wartime aviators and into the space age to present-day. The enlightening exhibits at the AF Museum feature famous aircraft, including the Memphis Belle, which goes on permanent display starting May 17, 2018.

#4. Spend a day at RiverScape. On a sunny day, there’s no better place to go in Downtown Dayton than this urban retreat. Ride a bike over 70 miles of paved trails or ride a horse along 30 miles of equestrian trails. Go fishing on one of the streams from a boat, kayak, or canoe, or drop a line in the water and sit on the banks of a pond. Soak up the water fun in the splash park, hunt for treasure with geocaching, or gain some gardening knowledge. Check the events calendar to see what’s happening this week.

#5. Get inspired at The Dayton Art Institute. From Wednesday through Sunday, browse the galleries, spanning 5,000 years of art history. The Dayton Art Institute has earned a reputation as an outstanding art museum. The exhibits include the Dicke Wing of American Art, with original works by such legendary artists as Dale Chihuly, James Earl Fraser, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keeffe, to name just a few. The DAI also offers programs for children and families, and studio art classes for adults.

#6. Discover the local flavor at the 2nd Street Market. This legendary marketplace features the food and fare of local growers, bakers, and artisans. Open year ‘round, the 2nd Street Market brings together more than 40 vendors, who offer up fresh produce, artisanal breads and cheeses, fresh baked goods, local wines, confections, crafts, and much more.

#7. Explore the Carillon Historical Park. Trace the fascinating history of Dayton back to the early settlers. Wander through buildings, like the city’s oldest standing building, the Newcom Tavern, more than 220 years old, and a schoolhouse built in 1896, among others. See the largest collection of artifacts from the Wright Brothers, including Orville Wright’s last major project, the 1905 Wright Flyer III. Learn about the devastation of the Great 1913 Flood from the Great Miami River. You’ll appreciate Dayton even more after you’ve delved into its history!

As you’re experiencing the vibrant activity of Downtown Dayton, consider making this city your new hometown. Charles Simms Development builds energy-efficient townhomes and townhome communities in and around the city. Monument Walk is our newest development, right in the heart of the Dayton. See what’s coming and what’s available now!