Dayton OH

Dayton – The Gem City, where innovation meets Midwestern charm. Known as the birthplace of aviation, Dayton offers a rich history, vibrant arts scene, and green outdoor spaces. Whether you're exploring world-class museums, enjoying riverside trails, or discovering its historic neighborhoods, Dayton is a surprising blend of culture, nature, and small-city warmth.

• Population: ~137,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (60-85°F), chilly winters (20-40°F), colorful falls, and blooming springs.
• Places To Visit: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Carillon Historical Park, Dayton Art Institute, RiverScape MetroPark, SunWatch Indian Village.
• Top Activities: Biking the Miami Valley Trails, exploring aviation history, attending a Dayton Dragons baseball game, kayaking on the Great Miami River, visiting local breweries and markets.
• Famous Food: Pine Club steakhouse, Marion’s Piazza pizza, local brews from Warped Wing Brewery, and fresh eats from 2nd Street Market.

Dayton, Ohio is known for its strong roots in aviation, manufacturing, and defense industries. With a growing healthcare sector and technology development presence, the city offers a variety of career opportunities. Below are some of the top jobs available in the Dayton area.

Top 5 Jobs in Dayton, OH

Dayton, Ohio may not be as flashy as some larger cities, but it is packed with great spots where students can unwind, socialize, and have a blast. From scenic parks to cool cafes, Dayton has plenty to offer for those looking to take a break from the books.

Oregon District – This is Dayton's artsy neighborhood, filled with unique shops, art galleries, and fantastic eateries. It's a great place to explore on foot and enjoy some local culture and history.

Yellow Springs – Just a short drive from Dayton, this charming village offers beautiful hiking trails at Glen Helen Nature Preserve and John Bryan State Park. Yellow Springs is also home to a lively arts scene and delightful coffee shops.

Riverscape MetroPark – Located in downtown Dayton, this park along the Great Miami River is a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Attend concerts, rent bikes, or simply enjoy the beautiful river views.

Dayton Beer Company – If you're of age, this local brewery offers a laid-back atmosphere with a wide selection of craft beers. It's an excellent spot for students to gather, especially during patio season.

Cox Arboretum and Gardens MetroPark – A peaceful escape with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a butterfly house. It's perfect for a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature's beauty.

Second Street Market – Open year-round, this market is a foodie’s paradise. With vendors offering fresh produce, unique eats, and artisan goods, students can enjoy both the food and the friendly ambiance.

Warped Wing Brewing Company – Check out this brewery for a taste of local craft beer and a fun atmosphere. The industrial-chic setting makes it a great place to chill out with friends.

Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark – Featuring formal gardens, natural paths, and a children's discovery garden, this park is perfect for those seeking tranquility in a picturesque setting.

Dayton, Ohio is known for its innovation, aviation history, and as a hub of academic excellence. The city is home to several respected public and private colleges and universities that serve a diverse student population. These institutions offer a range of programs in engineering, nursing, business, and the liberal arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Dayton

Wright State University – A major public research university, Wright State is known for its outstanding programs in engineering, nursing, and business. It also has a strong connection to the nearby Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, enhancing its research capabilities.

Sinclair Community College – One of the top community colleges in the nation, Sinclair offers affordable, high-quality associate degree and certificate programs in areas like health sciences, data analytics, and manufacturing technology.

Central State University (Dayton Regional Center) – Central State University, Ohio’s only public historically Black university, operates a regional center in Dayton. It offers bachelor’s degree programs in Early Childhood Education, Criminal Justice, and Business Management.

Miami University Regionals – Voice of America Learning Center (near Dayton) – While based in nearby West Chester, this regional campus of Miami University serves Dayton-area students with flexible undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in business and education.

The Ohio State University Extension - Montgomery County – OSU maintains a local extension in Dayton, offering community education, 4-H programs, and adult learning opportunities. While not a degree-granting campus, it plays an important role in accessible education.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Dayton

University of Dayton – A top-ranked Roman Catholic university, UD is nationally recognized for its engineering, business, law, and human rights programs. The university places a strong emphasis on service, innovation, and global learning.

Kettering College – Affiliated with Kettering Health, this private medical college trains students in nursing, sonography, respiratory care, and physician assistant studies. The college is highly regarded for its healthcare education and hands-on clinical experience.

Dayton Barber College – A specialized private institution offering professional training in barbering and cosmetology. Known for its hands-on curriculum and job-placement support, the college helps students quickly enter the workforce.

– This private career college just outside Dayton offers programs in healthcare, medical assisting, and skilled trades such as HVAC. It focuses on practical, career-ready education with small class sizes.

United Theological Seminary – A respected private seminary that offers graduate degrees in divinity, theology, and ministry. It prepares future clergy and church leaders through rigorous academics and spiritual formation.

Dayton, Ohio offers a range of excellent high schools that provide students with strong academics, college prep support, and opportunities in arts, science, and athletics. Whether you’re exploring public or private options, Dayton’s best high schools are known for shaping future leaders and innovators.

Top Public High Schools in Dayton, OH

• Oakwood High School – Located in the Oakwood City School District, this school is known for academic excellence, a high college readiness rate, and strong athletic programs.
• Centerville High School – With a diverse curriculum and numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Centerville ranks among top-performing schools in the state.
• Beavercreek High School – This large suburban school offers a wide variety of extracurriculars, a solid STEM program, and strong graduation rates.
• Bellbrook High School – Serving the Sugarcreek Local School District, it offers a well-rounded education focused on academic achievement and character development.
• Kettering Fairmont High School – Known for its innovation and technology programs, this school provides students with real-world skills along with college prep support.

Top Private High Schools in Dayton, OH

• Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School – A faith-based school with a strong academic foundation in STEM and liberal arts, plus a strong focus on service and leadership.
• Carroll High School – Known for its rigorous academics, successful athletic teams, and commitment to spiritual and moral development.
• Alter High School – A college-preparatory Catholic school with high academic rankings, strong arts programs, and a close-knit community.
• Spring Valley Academy – A Seventh-day Adventist school offering comprehensive academics that blend faith and learning in a supportive environment.
• Miami Valley School – A private K-12 institution offering a highly personalized education with a focus on experiential learning, creativity, and global awareness.

Dayton, Ohio, may not have teams in the major professional leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, or NHL, but it has a rich sports culture and is home to several professional and semi-professional teams. These teams bring excitement to the community and serve as a stepping stone for athletes pursuing the highest levels of competition.

🏀 Basketball – Dayton Flight (TBL)

• Dayton Flight – A professional basketball team competing in The Basketball League (TBL), the Dayton Flight was founded in 2020. The team provides a platform for rising basketball talent and engages the local community with high-energy games and family-friendly entertainment.

⚾ Baseball – Dayton Dragons (MiLB)

• Dayton Dragons – The Dragons are a Minor League Baseball team and the High-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. Since their founding in 2000, the team has built a strong fan base and holds a record for the most consecutive sellouts in professional sports history. They play at Day Air Ballpark and are known for developing future MLB stars.

🏈 Football – Dayton Hornets (MLFA)

• Dayton Hornets – The Hornets compete in the Midwest Football League Association (MLFA), a semi-professional football organization. They give local athletes a chance to perform at a high level while rallying community pride through hard-hitting action on the gridiron.

⚽ Soccer – Dayton Dutch Lions FC (USL League Two)

• Dayton Dutch Lions FC – Founded in 2009, this soccer club competes in USL League Two, a developmental league for talented college players and young pros. The Dutch Lions have a strong youth academy and have previously played in higher-level professional leagues. They are an important part of Dayton’s growing soccer scene.

🏒 Hockey – Dayton Demolition (defunct), Dayton Bombers (defunct)

• Dayton Demolition – This team was part of the Federal Hockey League and played during the 2015–2016 season. Though short-lived, they carried on the city’s hockey legacy after the departure of earlier teams.
• Dayton Bombers – Once competing in the ECHL, the Bombers played 17 seasons in Dayton. They were a fixture of local sports and made a run to the Kelly Cup Finals in 2007 before ceasing operations in 2009.

Though Dayton may not have major league teams, its professional sports organizations continue to bring pride, entertainment, and opportunity to the region.

Dayton, Ohio may be known as the birthplace of aviation, but there's much more that makes this Midwestern gem fun and fascinating. With rich history, cool inventions, and a vibrant arts scene, here are some fun facts about Dayton:

1. Home of the Wright Brothers – Dayton is where Orville and Wilbur Wright lived and invented the first successful airplane.
2. Invention Capital – Dayton has more patents per capita than nearly any other city in the U.S., earning its nickname as the city of inventors.
3. Birthplace of the Cash Register – The first mechanical cash register was invented here in 1879 by James Ritty, and later produced by NCR Corporation.
4. Underground River – Dayton has a hidden gem: the Mad River runs partially underground beneath the city in tunnel systems.
5. Famous for Funk – The Funk Music Hall of Fame is located here, as Dayton has produced iconic funk bands like The Ohio Players and Zapp.
6. Big in Aviation – Dayton hosts the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the world’s largest military aviation museum.
7. High Five in Ice Cream – Graeter’s Ice Cream, a regional favorite, once ranked as one of Oprah’s “favorite things” and has roots in Dayton’s early ice cream history.
8. Dayton Peace Accords – In 1995, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton became the location where leaders signed the Dayton Peace Accords to end the Bosnian War.
9. Historic Arts Scene – The Dayton Art Institute is one of the top 10 best art museums in the country for kids.
10. Trails for Days – Dayton is part of the nation’s largest network of paved trails, great for biking, jogging, and exploring Ohio’s natural beauty.