20+ THINGS TO DO NEAR WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, IN DAYTON, BEAVERCREEK, AND MORE!

Because of its location, there are so many things to do near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. As an added bonus, the cities around the base are extremely family friendly. If you’re a single service member, you’re no more than 2 hours and 30 minutes from three major cities that have regular and seasonal events. Downtown Dayton is home to a large, European-style market, 2nd Street Market, that is known to be a favorite amongst locals. Here, you can find amazing vendors, fresh produce, and delicious brunch. Keep reading to learn more about hot spots for families, pets, date night, and more!

5 Places in Dayton That Are Military Friendly

With Wright-Patterson making significant contributions to the surrounding economy, there are several military-friendly events and activities on- and off-base. Below are five of our favorites.

National Museum of the United States Air Force

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is a must-see. Known as the world’s largest military aviation museum, it is located right on Wright-Patt, and is packed with more than 350 aircraft, missiles, and historic artifacts.

You can easily spend an entire day here exploring everything from WWII bombers to space capsules.

• Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM (closed only on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
• Admission: Free. There is a charge for the Air Force Museum Theatre and flight simulators.

National Aviation Heritage Area

The National Aviation Heritage Area has a collection of aviation-related historic sites around Dayton, all tied to the legacy of the Wright brothers and the early days of flight.

It includes spots like the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, Huffman Prairie Flying Field, Carillon Historical Park, and more.

• Hours & Admission: Hours vary depending on the site, but many are open during the day and offer free or low-cost admission.

National Aviation Hall of Fame

Right next door to the Air Force Museum, the National Aviation Hall of Fame celebrates the heroes of aviation—everyone from the Wright brothers to astronauts and test pilots.

• Hours: Open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM
• Admission: Free

Dayton Art Institute

The Dayton Art Institute is a beautiful, historic museum filled with artwork from around the world—paintings, sculptures, and rotating exhibitions. It’s also got a scenic location overlooking downtown and the river.

• Hours: Check their website for the most current hours, but they’re usually open several days a week
• Admission:
  • Adults: $15
  • Military & Seniors: $10
  • Students & Youth: $5
  • Kids under 6: Free

Miami Valley Trails

If you’re looking to get outside, the Miami Valley trail system is perfect. With over 350 miles of paved trails, you can bike, walk, or run through some of the prettiest parts of the region—from city parks to riverside paths.

• Hours: Open every day from sunrise to sunset
• Admission: Free

5 Restaurants Near Wright-Patterson That Are Sure to Please

Military communities have a unique gravitational pull when it comes to international food and cultures integrating seamlessly into service members’ everyday lives. Wright-Patterson AFB is no different.

Not only can you find regional restaurants that are widely known in the Midwest, but you can find cuisine from Thai to Japanese, Indian to Greek. Here are a few favorites.

Taste of Jerusalem

A cozy, family-run Mediterranean gem in Fairborn that delivers authentic Middle Eastern and Greek flavors right next to Wright-Patt. Folks rave about the fresh veggies, olive oil dishes, gyros, hummus, and baklava served at Taste of Jerusalem.

Skyline Chili

A regional chain born in Cincinnati, Skyline Chili is famous for its ultra‑thin chili over spaghetti (Three‑Way) or hot dogs (Cheese Coneys), piled high with shredded cheddar. If you want a taste of “Chili West,” this is the iconic stop.

Cherry House Cafe

A beloved Beavercreek staple, Cherry House Café serves handcrafted comfort dishes—think fluffy breakfast sandwiches, pot pie soup, chef salads, chicken marinara, and stellar burgers. Regulars also rave about their peanut butter pie.

Gyro Max

Craving Mediterranean cuisine? Gyro Max on Airway Road delivers with speedy service—boisterous platters loaded with gyro meat, grilled chicken, rice, tzatziki sauce, and fresh salad. It’s a no-fuss favorite for day-to-day meals around base.

Little Saigon Restaurant

A personal favorite, Little Saigon brings warm Vietnamese hospitality to Dayton—offering fragrant pho, crisp banh mi, vermicelli bowls, and rice plates served with fresh herbs and thoughtful flavor.

The menu features rich, slow-simmered pho broths, tender meats, crispy and fresh sandwiches, and generous portions.

What Are Some Pet Friendly Places Near Wright-Patterson?

The open spaces near Wright-Patt are home to several pet-friendly hiking, biking, and walking trails. The spring and summer months are absolutely gorgeous and outdoor dining is popular, making it easier for many restaurants to welcome your furry family.

Below are several pet-friendly outdoor spaces and restaurants in the areas surrounding Wright-Patterson AFB.

Outdoor Spaces

• Scout Dog Park
• Hobson Freedom Park
• Karohl Park
• Narrows Reserve
• Phillips Park
• Twin Towers Park

Fur-Family Friendly Restaurants

• South Park Tavern
• Wheat Penny Oven & Bar
• The Barrel House
• The Trolley Stop
• Mudlick Tap House
• Lily’s

5 Things For Couples to Do in Beavercreek

Beavercreek is a short 15-20 minute drive from Wright-Patt. The city is a favorite among many, as it has so many things to do — especially for date night. Here are five of our favorite activities for couples.

The Greene Town Center

A lively open-air shopping and entertainment district, The Greene has it all—boutiques, national retailers, restaurants, a comedy club, and even a movie theater.

An added bonus, the center is walkable, family-friendly, and perfect for a day out—whether you’re shopping, grabbing dinner, or catching a show.

Hours: Most stores are open Mon–Sat 10 AM–9 PM, Sun 12–6 PM

Woodhouse Spa

Woodhouse offers a full-service luxury spa experience, from massages and facials to body treatments and nail care—all in a calm, elegant setting. A perfect place to relax and recharge— it is ideal for self-care days, gift cards, or post-duty unwinding.

Hours: Open daily, typically 10 AM–6 PM

Dixie Drive-in Movie Theater

This nostalgic twin-screen drive-in is a local favorite for catching double features in the open air. Grab your snacks, tune in your radio, and enjoy a classic movie night under the stars at Dixie.

Hours: Open spring–fall; typically Tue–Sun in summer, Fri–Sat later in the season. Gates open around 8 PM.

Scene75

Packed with attractions like go-karts, laser tag, mini-golf, arcade games, and bumper cars, Scene75 is one of the largest indoor entertainment centers in the country.

With something for everyone Scene75 is great for family outings, date nights, or team events.

Hours: Open Mon–Thu 11 AM–9 PM, Fri–Sat until 11 PM, Sun until 8 PM.

Great Escape Game

This immersive escape room venue features six unique themes—from ancient tombs to high-security vaults and a military-style “Area D” scenario.

Great Escape Game offers a fun and challenging group experience—great for families, friends, or team-building.

Hours: Mon–Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri 11 AM–10 PM; Sat 12–10:30 PM; Sun 11:30 AM–7 PM.

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

Wright-Patterson AFB is ‘centrally’ located between Columbus, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis with the furthest city being only a 2-hour drive away. If you prefer the big city vibes, you’ll love how easy it is for you to enjoy them for a day, a weekend, or even an extended holiday.

Below is a non-exhaustive list of the many things you can do in the three big cities surrounding Wright-Patterson.

Cincinnati

Drive time: 90 minutes

• MLB games: Take in America’s favorite pastime with a trip to see the Cincinnati Reds. The downtown stadium offers great views of the riverfront, family-friendly vibes, and plenty of concession classics.
• King’s Island Amusement Park: One of the Midwest’s top theme parks, King’s Island features world-class roller coasters, family rides, a huge water park, and military appreciation days throughout the year.
• Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden: One of the oldest and most respected zoos in the country, this spot is home to over 500 animal species and lush gardens. It’s an excellent mix of education, conservation, and family fun.
• Newport Aquarium: Just across the river from Cincinnati, this impressive aquarium features underwater tunnels, shark bridges, and up-close encounters with marine life from around the world.
• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: Located on the banks of the Ohio River, this powerful museum tells the story of the Underground Railroad and ongoing struggles for freedom and equality.
• Krohn Conservatory: This historic conservatory in Eden Park houses thousands of exotic plants in themed rooms, from desert landscapes to tropical rainforests.

Indianapolis

Drive time: 2 hours

• Indiana Medical History Museum: Step back into the early days of modern medicine at the oldest surviving pathology lab in the U.S. Tours take you through preserved labs, old medical tools, and fascinating exhibits.
• Garfield Park Conservatory: This indoor botanical garden is filled with tropical plants, seasonal flowers, and a relaxing atmosphere. The surrounding park also features walking trails and fountains.
• The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: The largest children’s museum in the world, packed with interactive exhibits on science, history, culture, and art. It’s as fun for adults as it is for kids.
• Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum: Located inside the world-famous speedway, this museum celebrates Indy 500 history with race cars, memorabilia, and guided tours of the track.
• Indianapolis Zoo: This popular zoo features an aquarium, botanical garden, and unique animal encounters like swimming with dolphins.
• Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art: Showcasing Native American history and Western art, the museum offers a deep look at culture, heritage, and storytelling through exhibitions and artifacts.
• Indiana State Fair: This summer fair brings together concerts, rides, food, livestock shows, and classic fair fun.

Columbus, OH

Drive time: 90 minutes

• Franklin Park Conservatory: This conservatory is an oasis of glasshouses, exotic plants, and seasonal exhibits, this spot offers calm, beauty, and family-friendly fun year-round. Great for recharging or a relaxing outing with loved ones.
• Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Known as one of the top-rated zoos in the country, it features animals from around the globe, a water park, and immersive exhibits.
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center: This indoor LEGO-themed center is built for kids ages 3–10, with rides, building zones, and a 4D cinema.
• Columbus Museum of Art: This museum has a mix of classic and contemporary art, creative spaces, and rotating exhibits that often highlight social and cultural themes.
• National Veterans Memorial and Museum: This modern museum honors the personal stories of service members from all branches and conflicts.

5 Things For Kids to Do in Dayton

The military-friendly area surrounding Wright-Patterson includes many kid-friendly museums and activities!

• Carillion Historical Park Museum: Perfect for families, explore 65 acres of Dayton’s rich innovation and transportation history, including the Wright Brothers, early automobiles, and more.
• La Comedia Diner Theater: One of the nation’s largest professional dinner theaters, La Comedia serves up Broadway-style shows and hearty buffet meals.
• Urban Krag Climbing Center: Housed in a historic church, this unique indoor climbing gym offers routes for beginners to advanced climbers.
• National Museum of the United States Air Force: Known as one of the world’s largest military aviation museums, see over 350 aircraft and missiles, experience immersive exhibits, and take free guided tours.
• Scene75: It’s every kid's dream. A massive indoor fun zone featuring go-karts, arcade games, laser tag, bowling, food, and more—all under one roof.

Don’t Miss These Dayton Seasonal Events!

We’re sharing 5 seasonal events taking place in Dayton that you won’t want to miss.

2nd Street Market

Although 2nd Street Market is open all-year-round, the produce, the offerings and the vendors can change from season to season.

The Ohio State Football

If you’re a Buckeye fan, you’re in luck getting stationed at Wright-Patterson! The Ohio State University is only 90 minutes away, giving you plenty of opportunities to catch your favorite team on game day — in person.

University of Dayton Athletics

If you simply love college sports of any kind, The University of Dayton Flyers is the local college team with a NCAA athletics program.

You can catch women and men’s basketball, football, and women’s volleyball to get your sports fix.

The Air Force Marathon

Wright-Patterson AFB hosts the annual Air Force Marathon in September around the Air Force’s birthday. More than 8,000 participants from 18 countries and 50 states join the festivities every year.

Even if you’re not a runner, there are several opportunities to volunteer and support.

Cedar Point Amusement Park

Amusement parks are a summer must and thankfully, Cedar Point is an amazing one located 3 hours from Wright-Patterson, near Lake Erie.

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near Wright-Patterson!

Whether you're single, part of a military family, or transitioning out of service, the Dayton region and surrounding cities provide a vibrant mix of culture, nature, entertainment, and history that truly supports the military lifestyle.

From iconic aviation museums and scenic trails to global cuisine and kid-friendly fun, there’s no shortage of things to do right outside your doorstep. And with three major cities—Cincinnati, Columbus, and Indianapolis—just a short drive away, exciting weekend getaways are always within reach. Did you try any of the activities on our list? Let us know!

Related reads:

• 26 of the Best Restaurants Near Wright-Patterson AFB
• Experience the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
• Wright-Patterson AFB Housing: 2 on-Base Options