This blog is part of a series showcasing cities where COLSA operates and where our family of professionals live, work, and play!
Dayton, Ohio, proudly wears the title “Birthplace of Aviation,” home to the legendary Wright brothers. But Dayton’s influence on the skies doesn’t stop with the past as Dayton continues to be a key player in the future of aviation.
Wright-Patterson
Dayton, Ohio, is home to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, one of the largest military bases in the U.S., spanning over 8,000 acres and hosting an impressive 11,000 aircraft operations annually. With more than 30,000 military personnel, civilian employees, and contractors, it’s not just a hub for defense but for cutting-edge aviation research. The base is home to the Air Force Material Command, Air Force Research Laboratory, and the Air Force Institute of Technology, making it a powerhouse of innovation.
The base also houses the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. The museum’s four massive hangars span 19 acres and hold over 300 aircraft and missiles, including historic Air Force One planes.
Legacy of Invention
While Dayton is globally recognized for its aviation history, it has also been a birthplace for many other life-changing inventions. Charles F. Kettering, a Dayton native, revolutionized the automotive industry with the invention of the electric starter. Along with Thomas Midgley Jr., Kettering also developed freon, which transformed refrigeration. Dayton gave the world the stepladder, pop-top cans, backpack parachutes, and even the cash register.
This spirit of innovation still thrives today, with Dayton serving as a hub for new ideas and industries.
A Culture of Art
The Dayton Art Institute, founded in 1919, is home to over 27,000 artworks spanning 5,000 years of history. Visitors can marvel at pieces by renowned artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, Claude Monet, and Edgar Degas.
Performing arts enthusiasts can enjoy a year-round calendar of events at the Schuster Performing Arts Center and Victoria Theatre, both offering a wide array of performances from Broadway shows to local theater productions.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the outdoors, Dayton boasts the largest paved trail network in the nation, with over 350 miles of scenic paths that connect schools, parks, and historic landmarks. The Five Rivers MetroParks cover 16,000 acres, offering activities like fishing, boating, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking along the Great Miami Riverway. Nearby Caesar Creek State Park is a popular spot for families looking to enjoy hiking, water sports, and camping in the warmer months.
Downtown Dayton
In recent years, Downton Dayton has seen a resurgence, becoming a hub for food, drink, and entertainment. The city is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with local breweries and unique restaurants offering a taste of Dayton’s culinary creativity. Independent shops, markets, and cultural events like festivals and live music, give the city a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
For sports enthusiasts, Dayton offers plenty of local teams to cheer for. You can catch a thrilling baseball game with the minor league Dayton Dragons or enjoy hockey action with the Dayton Demonz. Soccer fans can support the Dayton Dutch Lions, while college sports lovers won’t want to miss the University of Dayton Flyers basketball team.
Last but not least, Dayton hosts regular community events like local festivals, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood gatherings, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home and get connected.
