Dayton Art Institute Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com


With exceptional special exhibits and an impressive permanent collection, it is easy to see why Dayton’s fine arts museum is such a popular destination.

The Italianate exterior of the Dayton Art Institute is almost as beautiful as the exhibits within. Come see why this site is consistently ranked among North America’s top art museums.

The Dayton Art Institute’s permanent collection encompasses 5,000 years of art history. Browse through the huge variety of art on display, which ranges from ancient Mayan vessels to Monet’s Waterlilies.

The museum is geographically divided into three main sections: the Berry Wing of European Art, the Dicke Wing of American Art and the Patterson/Kettering Wing of Asian Art. Peruse the smaller galleries, where you can find art from around the world.

The gallery is known for its superb temporary and traveling exhibits. When you arrive, check in with the front desk to see what is scheduled on the calendar. Visitors of all ages love the Lange Family Experiencenter. Encourage your children to explore art through interactive displays and appealing exhibits.

Enhance your trip with a free docent-led tour. These experts give fascinating insight into the artwork and artists on display. Rent a tablet from the museum or use your own Wi-Fi-enabled device to take a self-guided tour.

Enjoy a snack in the inviting atmosphere of Leo Bistro, which offers everything from a full lunch to coffee and pastries, with a dinner menu available on Thursdays. After your visit, head to the Museum Store located behind Leo Bistro. Shop for replica sculptures, prints, jewelry made by local artists and other souvenirs.

The museum is open any day of the week except Mondays and major holidays. Enjoy extended hours on Thursdays. The Dayton Art Institute asks visitors to contribute a suggested admission fee, but it is on a donation basis. Note that some special exhibits and events carry a special admission charge. Free parking is available adjacent to the museum.

As you drive into Dayton along the interstate highway, look for the Dayton Art Institute’s distinctive red roof. The gallery is a short walk from the historic downtown area and a 15-minute drive from Dayton International Airport.

Popular places to visit


Top Dayton Art Institute Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Marriott at the University of Dayton
Marriott at the University of Dayton
4 out of 5
1414 South Patterson Boulevard, Dayton, OH
Marriott at the University of Dayton
 Mediterranean riverfront WiFi, AC in downtown DAYTON & 3 min to UD AMAZING  ❤️
Mediterranean riverfront WiFi, AC in downtown DAYTON & 3 min to UD AMAZING ❤️
Dayton
Mediterranean riverfront WiFi, AC in downtown DAYTON & 3 min to UD AMAZING ❤️
THE MANSION ON MONUMENT AVENUE!
THE MANSION ON MONUMENT AVENUE!
Dayton
THE MANSION ON MONUMENT AVENUE!
UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOME 
2 MIN DOWNTOWN
5 MIN,OHIO STATE U SO ROMANTIC ❤️
UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOME 2 MIN DOWNTOWN 5 MIN,OHIO STATE U SO ROMANTIC ❤️
2 out of 5
Dayton
UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOME 2 MIN DOWNTOWN 5 MIN,OHIO STATE U SO ROMANTIC ❤️
Charming Dayton Home: Walk to River + Downtown!
Charming Dayton Home: Walk to River + Downtown!
Dayton
Charming Dayton Home: Walk to River + Downtown!
Gorgeous apt marble bath & kit 2 min from  downtown  5 min to Dayton university
Gorgeous apt marble bath & kit 2 min from downtown 5 min to Dayton university
2 out of 5
Dayton
Gorgeous apt marble bath & kit 2 min from downtown 5 min to Dayton university
Hotel Ardent Dayton Downtown, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
Hotel Ardent Dayton Downtown, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
3.5 out of 5
137 N Main St, Dayton, OH
Hotel Ardent Dayton Downtown, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
Charming Dayton Home: Walk to River + Downtown!
Charming Dayton Home: Walk to River + Downtown!
3 out of 5
Dayton
Charming Dayton Home: Walk to River + Downtown!
Luxurious Marble bath & kit1 bedroom condo WiFi 
DAYTON 2 min downtown 5 min UD
Luxurious Marble bath & kit1 bedroom condo WiFi DAYTON 2 min downtown 5 min UD
2 out of 5
Dayton
Luxurious Marble bath & kit1 bedroom condo WiFi DAYTON 2 min downtown 5 min UD
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.