Dayton, Ohio, is well known for its history. It is loaded with historic buildings and museums, and it is home to the only airplane that has been named a National Historic Landmark, the 1905 Wright Flyer III, which was flown by Dayton's own Wright brothers. Dayton is everything aviation, and you can explore the aviation trail for free.
If you are a history buff or just like airplanes, there is something for everyone at any age at the National Museum of the Air Force. Where else can you walk under a huge plane, see missiles on display and space capsules? There are planes, helicopters and all kinds of aircraft from the Wright Brothers to modern day. The six-story-high IMAX theater will give you a "just like you are there"
feeling as you watch one or more of the current movies. Although the museum is free to the public, there is a charge for the IMAX of about $4 to $7 depending on age. Reservations are not necessary for individuals but can be made on the website. Also available is the Morphis Movie Ride, which is a capsule of the future that holds 14 people. Once you have boarded and the door closes on the world, you will gyrate and get the feel of actually flying, The cost ranges from $3 to $4. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
National Museum of the United States Air Force
1100 Spaatz St.
Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433
937-255-3286
http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Visit the place where the Wright Brothers repaired bicycles and dreamed of flying. It was in 1892 that the famed brothers opened the shop. This was an added occupation as they already were in the printing business. There are several buildings to visit at this site, and they are free to the public. One building is the Aviation Trail Visitors Center and Museum where you will be able to collect information on more to do.
Wright Cycle Company
22 S. Williams St.
Dayton, OH 45407
937-225-7705
www.nps.gov/archive/daav/pla_fac_wrightcycleco.htm
Want to take a little time to be at one with nature? Visit the Aullwood Audubon Nature Center and Farm. You can enjoy the exploration of the nature center, visit the farm, take a walk or sit and enjoy the view. Aullwood was voted Dayton's best scenic view. There is much to learn at the center. There is nature all around, and it is the goal of the center to protect the birds and wildlife. There are woods ponds, steams, prairies and an organic farm to explore.They are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Aullwood Audubon Nature Center and Farm
1000 Aullwood Road
Butler Township, OH 45414
937-890-7360
Dayton has a history of aviation, and it is there that you will find the Aviation Trail that will peak your interests in how we began to fly.
