1. Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm
Follow a naturalist and take a family discovery walk on the trails of Aullwood Audubon Center. Families will stroll to Muskrat Marsh and Bluegill Pond where kids can spot dragonflies, frogs and turtles. Budding scientists will love exploring all nature has to offer at Audubon. This event takes place every Saturday and Sunday in June at 2:30 pm.
2. Dayton Multi-Sport Festival
Support fitness and fun at the Dayton Multi-Sport Festival June 5 and 6 in Riverscape MetroPark. Cheer on friends running the 5K, 10K, or 13.1 and then race over to the health and fitness expo included in the weekend’s events. Food trucks, a beer garden and music are just some of the family-friendly activities offered at the region’s largest health and fitness festival.
3. Play Ball at the National Museum of the US Air Force
Enjoy a family day at the National Museum of the US Air Force and discover the physics of baseball and other sporting activities. Hands-on demonstrations and interactive displays allow kids to learn about science and sports in a fun way. This free event takes place on Saturday, June 20 from 9 am to 3 pm.
4. Wegerzyn Children’s Discovery Garden
Cultivate an inquiring mind and get hands-on gardening experience at the Children’s Discovery Garden in Wegerzyn MetroPark. With three main areas of exploration, kids are encouraged to play among plant displays and watch for wildlife as they learn about nature firsthand.
5. Adventure Reef Water Park
Stay cool and splash into summer with a trip to Adventure Reef Water Park. Located in the Kettering Recreation Complex, this 3-acre outdoor water park features a large water playground, a splash pad, fast slides and ample deck seating for parents. Consider purchasing a pass for exclusive use of the park on Sundays, as well as early entry throughout the season.
6. Family Farm Chores
Put the kids to work at Carriage Hill Farm, where families are invited to help with morning farm chores. Collect eggs, feed the animals and follow a farmer to learn about life on the farm. Historical presentations and exhibits are also given at the Farm, located within the Carriage Hill MetroPark. Chores take place the third Saturday of every month, but space is limited and registration is required.
7. Young’s Jersey Dairy
Mooove on over to Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm and enjoy a recipe for family fun complete with homemade ice cream. Kids can hang at Cowvin’s Kiddie Corral, play ball at the batting cages or get a hole-in-one with a game of miniature golf. Take a break from the action and enjoy a scoop of Young’s homemade ice cream, with specialty summer flavors including peaches and cream and lemon custard.
8. Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Don’t let a rainy day in June dampen summer spirits, instead visit the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. This children’s museum focuses on science-based activities and hands-on exhibits that feature topics such as natural history, astronomy and biology. Visit during the week from 9 am to 5 pm or on Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm.
9. Train Rides at Carillon Park Railroad
All aboard! Take a ride on a 1/8 scale railroad and learn about the history of the railroad industry. Join Carillon Historical Park for Rail Fest June 21 and 22 which will feature free miniature train rides, live steam engines and model train displays.
10. Newport Aquarium
Rainy day? Spend it at the Newport Aquarium. Located at Newport on the Levee, the Newport Aquarium offers visitors the chance to explore over 70 exhibits and thousands of animals from around the world. Guests can meet a penguin or even walk across Shark Bridge, suspended inches above two dozen sharks, during their visit.
With only 95 days of summer, make the most of it with all the Dayton area fun you can squeeze in!
