What to Do in Dayton Ohio During the Winter

Winter’s chill is beginning to settle in, and the nights are getting longer. If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the holidays, or cabin fever is setting in, you’ll find plenty to do during the winter in Dayton, Ohio.

We’ve rounded up some ideas, some holiday-themed, some off-beat, and all guaranteed to beat the winter blahs.

Scope Out Some Cool, Colorful Murals

Winters in Ohio often range from snow white to cloud gray. We’re fortunate to have many spectacular wall murals throughout the area, including a really cool one at this Dayton, Ohio car dealer.

You’ll find plenty of walls transformed into goddesses and gardens, everyday life, and some fun trompe l’oeil scenes. And if you want a taste of state history, many of these colorful murals celebrate famous Ohioans and their achievements, including poets, artists, musicians, and inventors.

Check out the locations of these murals, plug them into your GPS, and enjoy some color on a gray winter’s day.

Like Your Culture a Little More Cozy? Head Inside

If you’re looking to come in out of the cold, Dayton is home to several art galleries and museums, many within easy walking distance to each other. Take advantage of special First Friday events in partnership with nearby galleries, restaurants, bars, and shops. Tour popular art venues including Front Street Art, the Dayton Art Institute, The Contemporary Dayton, and the Dayton Society of Artists.

You’ll also find a variety of cool museums to check out, including America’s Packard Museum for classic car buffs, and the National Aviation Hall of Fame, and the Dayton International Peace Museum.

Brewing Up Winter Fun

Looking for gifts that will warm the recipient from the inside out? Why not have a little fun while you shop and take a tour of some of Dayton’s distilleries and breweries (and pick up something nice for yourself)?

Try the award-winning hand-crafted and small-batch spirits at Belle of Dayton (their Hot Peppers flavored vodka will melt away the winter cold) and Dayton Barrel Works.

If beers and ales are more to your liking, you’re in luck! Downtown Dayton is home to several breweries and taprooms, including Toxic Brew and Branch & Bone. If you’re in need of a nibble to go along with your flight of tasters, Lock 25 Brewing Company and Warped Wing Brewing Company both offer a delicious menu of tasty treats to enjoy with your ale.

Lace ‘em Up!

You can almost hear Vince Guaraldi’s jazz piano playing those classic Charlie Brown Christmas tunes as you take to the ice at the RiverScape MetroPark’s Ice Rink.

The rink is open through the entire winter and is open to skaters of all ages and skating abilities, making it the perfect place for a family outing.

Winter Doesn’t Slow Dayton Down

No matter what season it is, there is always plenty to do in and around Dayton, Ohio. From museums and galleries to walking tours and nightlife and so much more, you’ll find something to keep you busy—and warm—throughout the winter.