Outdoor Recreation

Dayton, Ohio is incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, and the start of spring is the perfect time to explore and enjoy them!

Blogs - Outdoor Recreation

Five Rivers MetroParks

Five Rivers MetroParks provide an abundance of outdoor experiences, whether you want to sit under a pavilion, mountain bike some of the region’s most challenging terrain, or just unwind in the outdoors.

Island MetroPark

Great Miami Riverway

The Great Miami Riverway stretches 99 miles across multiple riverfront communities, each with their unique cultural experiences just waiting to be explored.  We are home to the nation’s largest paved trail network.

Great Miami Riverway

340+ Miles of Paved Trails

Ohio’s Miami Valley region provides over 340+ miles of paved, multi-use recreational trails. Stretching across county lines, these trails connect schools, parks, historic landmarks and area attractions. Travel through meadows, scenic countryside, forested areas and city centers while on the path.

Miami Valley Trails

Woodland Cemetery

Woodland Cemetery & Arboretum remains open to the public between 8 AM and 7 PM each day. The Cemetery is a much needed green-space, offering a place of retreat and reflection.  Woodland Cemetery & Arboretum offers many self-guided walking tours and the Woodland mobile app.

Woodland Cemetery App

Dayton Dragons

The Dayton Dragons minor league baseball team has been a Dayton favorite for more than 20 years! The High-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, they play at beautiful Day Air Ballpark in the Water Street District.

Dayton Dragons

Aullwood Audubon

Aullwood Audubon teaches, leads and inspires people to preserve, protect and enjoy nature, farming and the environment. Visit the Aullwood Farm and Aullwood Nature Center.

aullwood

Carillon Historical Park

Carillon Historical Park allows guests to walk the grounds during normal operating hours (Monday-Saturday, 9:30-5:00 and Sundays 12:00-5:00). This allows guests to enjoy some spring weather and get some exercise.

Dayton Bike Yard

Dayton Bike Yard, located in Welcome Park, covers seven acres and features pump tracks, flow tails, slope-style trails, a climbing hill, jump lines, a rock skills trail, and a bike playground for kids and novices. 
 

Dayton Bike Yard, showing a man riding a mountain bike on a wood plank path

Pursue outdoor adventures such as kayaking, cycling, fly-fishing and bird watching, all while enjoying the wonderful sights and sounds around you. Serene lakes; striking waterfalls; lush greenery and much more. You can also enjoy a hike in one of our many trails or read a book under a great big tree near a meadow. This is Ohio recreation at its best.