Top 10 Christmas Attractions in Dayton, Ohio

As days grow shorter and nights grow long, a familiar excitement charges the air in Dayton, OH. Bright lights and warm holiday activities are easy to find, if you know where to look.

1. Nothing ushers in the holidays like a vintage model train display, so be sure to enjoy the sights at Virginia Kettering’s Holiday Train Display. This refurbished local treasure has been lovingly restored and features as a part of the Dayton Holiday Festival.

2. Dayton locals eagerly await the holiday displays of Rike’s Wonderland Windows at the Schuster Center each year. This free display, a local tradition for many decades, features festive, animated figurines decked out in holiday fashion.

3. If the dark days of winter have you feeling blue, you’ll brighten up at the sight of over 3.5 million twinkling lights adorning Clifton Mill this holiday season. Gaze on the 100-foot waterfall of Christmas lights, and peek through the windows of Santa’s workshop to see that jolly elf in his preparations for the big night.

4. Those seeking a silent night filled with the peace of the season will enjoy a trip to Niederman Christmas Farm, just outside Dayton. Decorated trees, a life-sized nativity and several Biblical scenes tell the story of the first Christmas.

5. Nothing says, “Merry Christmas!” like the romance of candlelight. Join the city’s oldest historical district at the annual Holiday Candlelight Tour December 9th through the 11th. Tour beautifully decorated homes and enjoy Victorian sweets and champagne punch at your final stop.

6. Leave the city lights for cheerful Woodland Lights in Countryside Park. Open nightly, this special holiday display features carriage rides, visits with Santa, live deer, costumed characters, seasonal refreshments and other holiday activities for the entire family.

7. Laugh and cry together with friends and loved ones when you enjoy a performance of the beloved classic It’s a Wonderful Life at Dayton’s Victoria Theatre. Presented in the manner of a 1940s radio program, this tale brings Christmas cheer to all who hear it.

8. The Reaver Christmas Light Display north of Dayton welcomes young and old alike on weekends throughout December. A musical light show near the campfire features as a highlight of the attractions here.

9. Join the St. Anne’s historic district for a Dickens of a Christmas Holiday Home Tour December 13 through 15. Guided tours end at the historic Bossler Mansion with a special holiday fare and a chance to shop for unique gifts.

10. Hop aboard the North Pole Express for a visit to see Santa and Mrs. Claus. The half-hour train ride ends at a festively decorated LM&M junction, and each child will receive a special gift directly from Santa.