Top things to do in Dayton (Maryland)

Welcome to Dayton, Maryland

If you are looking for a city that has a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities, Dayton is the perfect destination for you. Dayton is a small city in Howard County, Maryland, that has many tourist attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Dayton:

Pig Tail Recreation Area

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you should definitely visit the Pig Tail Recreation Area. The recreation area is located on Green Bridge Rd and is managed by WSSC (Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission). You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and boating here. The park has picnic tables and restrooms for your convenience.

Carillon Historical Park

If you are a history buff, you must visit Carillon Historical Park. The 65-acre open-air museum has transportation exhibits, costumed interpreters, and a 4-D theater. You can see historical artifacts and buildings here. The park is located on Carillon Blvd and is managed by Dayton History.

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

Another must-visit place for history enthusiasts is the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. The park is located on S Williams St and is a National Register Historic District honoring American aviation pioneers. You can see exhibits and programs here that showcase the history of aviation.

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a great place to learn about science and archaeology. The museum has a planetarium, live animals, fossils, and more. You can also visit the archaeological park here. The museum is located on Deweese Pkwy.

America's Packard Museum

If you are a vintage car enthusiast, you should visit America's Packard Museum. The museum has a large collection of preserved cars, motorcycles, and artifacts in an original Packard dealership. The museum is located on S Ludlow St.

National Museum of the US Air Force

The National Museum of the US Air Force is an interactive military flight museum that has a flight simulator, a 3D theater, war-themed exhibits, and an on-site cafe. The museum is located on Spaatz St.

Sunwatch Indian Village

The Sunwatch Indian Village is an excavated remains of a 13th-century Native American village. You can see exhibits and artifacts here that showcase the history of the village. The site is managed by Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and is located on W River Rd.

The Dayton Art Institute

The Dayton Art Institute is a fine arts museum that has a broad collection of art. The museum is located in a historic building and also has an interactive kids' gallery. The museum is located on Belmonte Park N.

Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm

The Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to environmental education and conservation. You can see exhibits and participate in educational programs here. The center and farm is located on Aullwood Rd.

St Anne's Hill

St Anne's Hill is a historic district that has many historic homes and buildings. You can take a walking tour of the district and see the beautiful architecture. The district is located on McLain St.

RiverScape MetroPark

The RiverScape MetroPark is a park along the Great Miami River that offers winter ice-skating, community events, and floral plantings. The park is located on E Monument Ave.

Eastwood MetroPark

The Eastwood MetroPark is a scenic outdoor area with a lake, river, picnic shelters, and a playground. You can enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities here. The park is located on Harshman Rd.

Five Rivers MetroParks

The Five Rivers MetroParks is a large public park that features a variety of nature trails, a river for paddling, and reservable shelters. You can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities here. The park system is located on E Monument Ave.

Deeds Point MetroPark

The Deeds Point MetroPark is a park that offers scenic views of the Great Miami River. The park is located on Webster St.

Dayton International Peace Museum

The Dayton International Peace Museum is a museum that promotes non-violence. The museum is housed in an iconic mansion and features events, camps, and exhibits devoted to non-violence. The museum is located on N Ludlow St.

Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark

The Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark is a plant preserve that offers educational programs. The park has 10 formal gardens, a nature trail, and the Swamp Forest boardwalk, plus classes and workshops. The park is located on E Siebenthaler Ave.

Wright Brothers Memorial

The Wright Brothers Memorial is a memorial to the Wright brothers, who invented the airplane. You can learn about the history of flight here. The memorial is located on Memorial Rd.

Cox Arboretum MetroPark

The Cox Arboretum MetroPark is a scenic retreat with gardens and a butterfly habitat. You can enjoy walking trails and classes for all ages here. The park is located on N Springboro Pike.

Smith Gardens

The Smith Gardens is a beautiful garden that is open to the public. You can see different species of plants and flowers here. The garden is located on Far Hills Ave.

Paul Laurence Dunbar House

The Paul Laurence Dunbar House is the former residence of the notable African-American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar. You can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the life and works of the poet. The house is located on N Paul Laurence Dunbar St.

Conclusion

Dayton is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a family vacation. The city has something for everyone, from outdoor activities to history and culture. You can visit the Pig Tail Recreation Area for outdoor activities, the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park for history, and the Dayton Art Institute for art. Whatever your interests, you are sure to find something to do in Dayton.