If you're unfamiliar with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, this duty station has the charming small-town feel many crave. At the same time, its proximity to larger cities like Cincinnati and Columbus allows access to big-city amenities, truly giving residents the best of both worlds.
But, you might be asking, what’s there to do at this Ohio duty station?
Big-city locations like San Diego, Tampa, and San Antonio are home to well-known attractions and leave little to the imagination. But Wright-Patterson AFB, or "Wright-Patt," takes a little more getting to know.
With its strong sense of community and proximity to other cities, you're unlikely to run out of things to do during your time in Ohio.
Wright-Patterson AFB Nearby Attractions
1. National Museum of the United States Air Force
Once a small engineering study collection, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is the oldest and largest military aviation museum and world-renowned center for air and space power technology, as well as being a family favorite. With a ton of aircraft on display and activities designed just for kids, this stop offers visitors a walk through our nation's history.
2. The Dayton Art Institute
Share the visual arts with your children at The Dayton Art Institute. While older kids may enjoy a visit with their class, younger littles are sure to enjoy the Art Camp or Passport to Kindergarten, where they can get their hands dirty with interactive activities.
3. Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Interact with science on a personal level at the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. With so many kid-friendly exhibits, like Summer STEM Camps, Planetarium, the Discovery Zoo, and Oscar Boonshoft Kids, your kids’ new favorite outing will be guilt-free.
4. The Wright Cycle Company
Spend the day exploring Dayton Aviation Heritage at The Wright Cycle Company. Sign your 6- to 12-year-olds up to become Junior Park Rangers or let your kids head out on a Nature Quest to experience and explore nature.
5. Riverscape MetroPark
Head out to Riverscape Metro Park for a day surrounded by beautiful gardens, flowering pots, and reflecting pools on the edge of The Great Miami River. With opportunities to camp, hike, bike, fish, ice-skate in the winter, and play in the fountains in the summer, this Dayton attraction is worth revisiting.
6. Carillon Historical Park
Watch history come to life right before your little one’s eyes at Carillon Historical Park. Explore museum exhibits about the Wright Brothers, the 1913 Flood, Dayton Heritage, and more. Then, take your kids to feel like a part of history at the Early Settlement Area and grab dinner with costumed interpreters at the Carillon Brewing Company.
7. 2nd Street Market
Venture down to the 2nd Street Market to spend the day with local farmers, artisans, and food vendors under one roof. Open year-round, you’ll find a variety of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and specialty items, making it a great spot to explore and enjoy. Beyond shopping, the market hosts seasonal events and activities that engage the whole family.
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Wright-Patterson AFB Area Annual Events & Festivals
8. Ohio Challenge Balloon Festival
Head out for a full, fun day at the Ohio Challenge Balloon Festival. Come early for tethered balloon rides, arts and crafts, food vendors, and concerts. Or join in the evening festivities for a night balloon glow and fireworks!
9. Germanfest Picnic
Pull on your stretchy pants and indulge in authentic German food, music, beer, and more. Sip on your cold mug of beer and let the kids run wild at the Kid Zone complete with inflatables, games, face-painting, and a puppet show.
10. Bacon Fest
Come one, come all for a celebration of bacon, free to the public. Enjoy sampling local restaurants and live music all festival long.
11. Ohio Renaissance Festival
Join the Ohio Renaissance Festival for "International Talk Like a Pirate Day" in mid-September, where the kids can enjoy a Pirate Stunt Show and Pirate Play Time. Then, come back in October to witness Highland Weekend, capturing the Celtic charm with bagpipes and Gaelic spirit.
12. Dayton Greek Festival
Celebrate Greek heritage with cooking demonstrations, delicious food, live music, dance performances, and beer. Kids can burn off energy with fun activities on-site.
13. Fairborn Halloween Festival
Dress up the kids and join Dayton for a festive weekend full of rides, yummy food, live music, a zombie walk, and more.
Boredom is a thing of the past when you settle into the Wright-Patt area. With so many things to do, the whole family should have no trouble finding entertainment. And while there’s plenty to do at home, you’ll likely enjoy a few day trips and weekend destinations. You don’t want to miss Columbus Zoo, Kentucky Horse Park, Kings Island, or Cuyahoga National Park.
Want to learn more about this Ohio duty station? Download our free Military Family Guide to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base below.
