The Dayton Art Institute With Kids: Artistic, Educational and Fun

I love heading back to my hometown of Dayton, Ohio and while the majority of our time is spent seeing family, I always have a list of things to do. Luckily, there are some amazing things to do in Dayton and one spot that is always on our list to see is the Dayton Art Institute. We love visiting art museums for inspiration, history, and culture and the DAI is a fantastic place to get all of that.

Established in 1919, the institute holds the distinction of being Dayton’s oldest arts organization, with Orville Wright, of the famed Wright Brothers, counted among its original founders. Is it a must see when you’re in Dayton, Ohio? Oh yes it is!

The Dayton Art Institute is a must-visit in Dayton, Ohio:

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Basic Info

Address: 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton, Ohio
Hours: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 11:00am ~ 5:00pm; Thursday: 11:00am ~ 8:00pm; Sunday: 12:00pm ~ 5:00pm
Admission: Adults: $15.00, Youth (7-17): $5.00, Children 6 and below: Free
Website: https://www.daytonartinstitute.org/

The Architecture

The Dayton Art Institute is set in a breathtaking building that was envisioned by Edward B. Green of Buffalo. It really stands out among the architecture of the area as it draws inspiration from the elegant design of 16th-century Italian Renaissance villas. While you’d technically enter the building from the other side, you’ll want to walk up and down the beautiful front steps to get those Italian vibes.

Over its century-long existence, the Dayton Art Institute has undergone significant expansions and renovations. The recent Renaissance Campaign in 1994 transformed the museum, adding over 35,000 square feet of exhibition space so that Daytonians and visitors can enjoy even more art and exhibitions when they visit.

There are three main wings: the Berry Wing of European Art, the Dicke Wing of American Art, and the Patterson-Kettering Wing of Asian Art. There are also galleries devoted to African Art, Ancient Art, Oceanic Art, Art of the Ancient Americas, Native American Art, Photography and Glass, as well as Outdoor Sculpture. Will you have plenty to see while you’re in this art museum? You absolutely will.

Journey Through Art History

The museum’s permanent collection spans an impressive 5,000 years of art history, featuring captivating pieces from diverse cultures as mentioned above. Visitors can marvel at works by renowned artists such as Edward Hopper, Dale Chihuly, and exhibits highlighting the artistic expressions of Oceanic, Native American, and African cultures.

Coming from Korea, I was pleasantly surprised to see some great relics from Korea’s history as well. In fact, the Dayton Art Institute’s Asian collection has been recognized as one of the premier collections of its type in the US.

The institute is not only a custodian of history but also a dynamic force in the contemporary art scene. They actively seek to diversify their collection and are committed to acquiring works by underrepresented artists, with a focus on minority and women artists. This means that every time we visit, there is something new to see and enjoy. Of course their permanent exhibition is wonderful, but they also host fantastic special exhibitions.

If you’re in Dayton, there really is a vibrant arts scene. You can enjoy a plethora of street art in Dayton too so at the very least, keep your eyes peeled while driving through.

Family-Friendly and Experiential

For families looking to immerse their children in the world of art, the Lange Family Experience Center is a great addition in the basement to check out. After walking through galleries with plenty of “no-touch” pieces as we like to call them, it’s great to have a space for kids where it’s all about touching, learning, and creating.

With interactive galleries and kid-friendly exhibits, its an engaging space for young minds to explore the wonders of artistic expression. Let the kiddos jump, dance, sing, and make noise unabashedly. I’m sure your children will be just as inspired as our daughter always is after a visit to an art museum like the Dayton Art Institute. If you want to keep the fun going when you head home, you should also check out the super useful and fun Digital Resources section of the Dayton Art Institute’s website as well.

Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a family seeking a cultural outing, the Dayton Art Institute is a fantastic experience in Dayton, Ohio. Should it be on your list of things to do when you visit? Yes it should be.

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