The Wright Dunbar Interpretive Center and Wright Cycle Co. Shop are open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Huffman Prairie Flying Field Interpretive Center is open Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
There is no entrance fee to visit Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park; admission is free year-round.
From Columbus, take I-70 W to Dayton. Exit onto US-35, heading north. Immerse yourself in the birthplace of aviation and literary greatness, where innovation and creativity soar.
Parking is available near each site, including accessible parking at Huffman Prairie trailhead. No RV or overnight parking; no fees for cars and motorcycles.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, situated in the heart of Ohio, is a testament to the pioneering spirit of aviation, weaving a rich tapestry of history, innovation, and natural beauty. This park is not centered around a lake, but it offers an immersive experience that delves into the lives and achievements of the Wright brothers and poet Paul Laurence Dunbar.
As you explore the park, you stroll through the historically refurnished Wright brothers’ printing office and bicycle shop, relics that transport you to the late 19th century. The Huffman Prairie Flying Field, where Wilbur and Orville conducted their groundbreaking experiments, is now a serene landscape punctuated by the Huffman Prairie Trail, inviting visitors to hike and reflect on the region’s aviation legacy.
Hawthorn Hill, the Wrights’ mansion, stands as a grandiose testament to their success, while Paul Laurence Dunbar’s last home provides a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most celebrated poets. The Aviation Trail Visitor Center and Museum offers a comprehensive look at the contributions of other aviation pioneers, including Charles Kettering and Katharine Wright.
Seasonal highlights include the Wright Brothers Day celebration, which commemorates their first flight with historic aircraft demonstrations and engaging activities. Throughout the year, the park’s picnic areas and overlooks provide idyllic settings to enjoy the Ohio landscape.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the park’s partnership with Aviation Trail, Inc., allows visitors to stamp their passports at seven historic locations, culminating in the reward of a “Wilbear Wright” aviator teddy bear. Local outfitters and attractions, such as the Aviation Trail Visitor Center, enhance the visit with detailed exhibits and engaging narratives.
This historical park is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by aviation history and the cultural fabric of Dayton, offering a distinctive blend of educational enrichment and scenic beauty that makes for a memorable and enriching travel experience.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 81 000
- Established year
- 1992
Top 3 Facts about Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
The Huffman Prairie Flying Field, where the Wright brothers tested their airplanes, is considered the world’s first working airfield, spanning approximately 84 acres, and was the site where they perfected controlled, powered, and heavier-than-air flight.
This historic aviation site is also a biodiversity hotspot, featuring a diverse array of wildlife. The park is home to various bird species, including waterfowl and songbirds, as well as amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. The largest prairie remnant in Ohio supports unique flora, while nearby water bodies host ray-finned fishes. Arthropods and insects thrive in the varied habitats, making this a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a rich outdoor experience.
Within this historic landscape, the Huffman Prairie Flying Field, a key component of the park, is set against the backdrop of the largest prairie remnant in Ohio, spanning 84 acres. Here, the rolling prairie grasses sway gently in the breeze, providing a serene contrast to the innovative aviation history that unfolded on this very ground.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Night Sky & Astronomy
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan for 2-3 days to explore all sites. Visit in spring for the Dayton Aviation Heritage Festival. Park at designated lots, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring snacks as options are limited. Rest at the visitor center before heading to Huffman Prairie Flying Field.
Pack Appropriately
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. Bring warm clothing for cooler seasons and a camera to capture scenic views. Include a first-aid kit and spare cash for unexpected needs. Check the weather forecast to adjust your gear accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
When exploring, avoid invasive plant species, especially during Bat Week. Respect bat habitats and track milkweeds. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and dispose of trash properly to maintain the urban ecosystem. Be mindful of seasonal changes and local flora. Leave the area better than you found it.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, keep a safe distance from wildlife and water, and check weather conditions and park alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 937-225-7705.Exercise caution near ledges and follow all park rules.
Seasons
Visit in spring when temperatures rise from 46°F to 77°F. Enjoy the Dayton Air Show in June, or the Vectren Dayton Air Show in July, though temperatures are warmer then. Moderate spring weather makes it an ideal time to explore, with mild days and occasional light rain.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and vibrant events. Enjoy the Vectren Dayton Air Show in June, or explore historic sites like the Wright Cycle Company and Huffman Prairie Flying Field, open 10am-4pm, Wednesday-Sunday. Ideal for history and aviation enthusiasts.
Experience the rich aviation history amidst autumn’s mild coolness, with highs of 67°F and lows of 45°F. Visit in October for the Dayton Air Show, enjoying breezy days and light rainfall. A perfect time to immerse in historic significance and local culture.
Visit from December to March for a serene winter landscape with mild cold temperatures around 39°F, light snowfall, and fewer crowds, ideal for an immersive historical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Dayton, Ohio, which is located in Montgomery and Greene counties. Dayton is the nearest city to the historical sites that commemorate Wilbur and Orville Wright and Paul Laurence Dunbar.
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There is no specific child-friendly hiking trail within the park, but it includes several historic sites and interpretive centers that are accessible and educational for families. The park’s sites, such as the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center and Huffman Prairie Flying Field, are part of a larger self-guided tour known as the Dayton Aviation Trail. These sites are more focused on historical education than hiking trails.
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Dogs must be on a leash at all times when visiting the park. They are not allowed inside any buildings or structures. The leash must keep the dog under physical control.
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Yes, parking is free. It is available off Fourth Street, though the museum entrance is on Third Street. There are no fees for parking, regardless of the type of vehicle.
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The main attractions include the Wright Cycle Company building, where the Wright brothers worked on their bicycle business and early flight experiments; the Huffman Prairie Flying Field Interpretive Center, the site where the Wright brothers tested and refined their flying skills from 1904 to 1916; the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center; the Paul Laurence Dunbar House Historic Site, the home of the renowned African American poet; and the Wright Brothers National Museum at Carillon Historical Park, which features the 1905 Wright Flyer III, the world’s first practical airplane. The park also includes Hawthorn Hill, the Wright family’s mansion, and the Wright Brothers Memorial.