Beat summer boredom by exploring the possibilities in Dayton and the surrounding regions.
Now that warmer weather has arrived, it’s all about adventure. Don’t worry if you aren’t catching rays or lying by the ocean; Dayton and its surrounding areas have a variety of activities to cure the summer blues.
Edmund Suelflow, Computer Science major, hopes to have a relaxing summer.
“My summer plans consist of fishing and laying by the pool. I’m also going to King’s Island for the first time,” Suelflow said.
Whether it’s a road trip to King’s Island or a bike ride at Riverscape Metropark, there is something to suit your summer needs.
Liberal Arts major, Tyneisha Lanos, is excited about Dayton summer events.
“I’m going to be taking summer classes, going to baseball games, and riding my bike,” Lanos said.
These are just a few things to beat the summer blues; don’t sit inside and let the warm weather pass you by, get out and take full advantage of the many activities that this season has to offer.
Riverscape Metropark
Riverscape Metropark includes a bike hub, The Inventors River Walk, Summer Music Series and 2nd Street Market.
The Riverscape Bike Hub is the third bike hub east of the Mississippi. It’s located on 237 E. Monument Avenue in Downtown Dayton. It offers bike pumps, racks, rentals, and accessories, along with food concessions.
The Inventors River Walk celebrates Dayton inventors throughout history. It includes seven sculptures called, “Invention Stations.” Each sculpture includes a brick tile that includes information about the invention.
The Summer Music Series is all about enjoying live music and a variety of food located in the heart of downtown.
For more information about Riverscape Metropark contact 937-277-4374 or visit metroparks.org/riverscape.
The Dayton Art Institute
The Dayton Art Institute offers workshops and lectures about art. Learn art techniques, painting and glass fusion from area artists while enjoying a boxed lunch from Leo Bistro. Some programs carry a registration fee but also include admission to the galleries. To find out more about upcoming tours and workshops, contact 937-223-4278 or visit daytonartinstitute.org.
Dayton’s Courthouse Square
Dayton’s Courthouse Square hosts free lunchtime entertainment all summer long (June-September). Each weekday, food trucks and vendors set up for lunch and entertainment between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Around noon, a variety of performers will take the stage, while downtown workers and others can enjoy lunch outdoors.
You can also fill your summer with adventure outside of Dayton.
King’s Island
A visit to King’s Island can brighten your summer. KI is the largest amusement park in the Midwest. It’s fun for the whole family. Not only are there extreme rollercoasters and rides, but live entertainment and food concessions are located all around the park. For more information visit visitkingsisland.com.
The Beach Waterpark
To cool down from the summer sun, a trip to The Beach Waterpark in Mason will give a “vacation” feel. The Beach creates a paradise with white sand, crashing waves and water rides. For more information contact 513-398-7946.
Caesar Creek State Park
Make a day trip to Caesar Creek State Park. Caesar Creek is one of the finest outdoor recreation parks in southwest Ohio, according to Ohio Department of Natural resources. It’s all about nature. Hiking, boating, camping and fishing are all highlighted by woodlands and blue waters located in Waynesville. For more information, contact 513-897-3055.
Fourth of July Events
With Fourth of July coming up, Dayton and the surrounding areas have many firework displays to celebrate Independence Day.
Dayton Independence Day Fireworks
Riverscape Metro Park holds Independence Day fireworks in Downtown Dayton. The festival starts at 5:00 p.m. This community event includes musical performances, games, concessions and a kids area full of prizes.
Kettering Go Fourth Fireworks
Delco Park in Kettering offers firework fun on July 3 at 9:45 p.m. Festivities start at 6:00 p.m. at 1700 Delco Park Drive. You can enjoy live music before the firework show at dusk.
Centerville Americana Festival Fireworks
Centerville is hosting their 41st annual Americana Festival. The event is held on July 4 at 10:00 p.m. Enjoy synchronized music with the firework presentation located at Centerville High School
football stadium.