The building the art is housed in is gorgeous, meant to mimic an Italian villa. They have art from all different periods, including pre-Columbian, modern, European and Asian art. Such a fab collection. The glass exhibit fascinates my kids. I love the medieval tapestries. There is outdoor sculpture too. Only $8 for adults, free for college students and kids under 17, this is a great, inexpensive day out. There's a restaurant, but I've never eaten there and there is a really nice gift shop. Just a wonderful museum! For adults, school-aged kids, teens. I never took little kids here, but it might work for some kids.
My kiddos (6,4, 2) are big fans of the DAI. The Expericenter is typically well done with many hands-on stations for the kids to play, create, and dream. We also make our rounds through the permanent collections. If you ask at the reception desk, they have a kids club program that includes 3 or 4 works from the permanent collection that the kids look for as they enjoy the museum. After completing four activities, they receive a small gift. Each time one of my kids has completed the activities (usually after 4 trips) the art bin they receive has had some different type of art supply or medium for us to enjoy. The bistro leaves a bit to be desired. The food is pretty good but the service is slow which doesn't work well with three busy kids in tow. We often take snacks and enjoy them at the tables off to the side of the bistro. In summary, one of our favorite places in Dayton to visit.
Great architecture, fantastic collection and travelling exhibits, reasonable admission. Next to gorgeous Greek Orthodox church and momumental Masonic Temple (tours available).
I went on a wine tasting did not know they had them. Went with a friend. Like it very much. not really sure what month it was I think some time in May
The DAI is a treasure house of inspirational art in the Dayton area. Just across the river from downtown, we are exceedingly fortunate to have an art collection and exhibition venue of this quality on our area.
First time visiting - easy to get to, lovely setting, easy parking, very interesting building, loved how you wandered back through time and all of the galleries flowed smoothly together, very nice works by artists you've never heard of as well as many you have, the jewel tones walls set off the art very well, nice museum store AND if you go quickly, the Japan Art Deco special exhibit is amazing.Only reason for no 5 stars is that many of the labels for the works of art are peeling and need some TLC. Restaurant was just OK also.
We recently joined the DAI because we have never been disappointed with the presentations offered. The venue is inspiring, and the collection is exciting. The recent Japanese deco exhibit was first class.
While passing through the Midwest, I stopped at the a Dayton Art Institute. This museum is a gem, especially considering how much employment has left the Dayton area. The museum has a fabulous display with art from all periods and most parts of the world. Their special exhibits are exceptional. They are just about to complete ART DECO IN JAPAN: 1920-1945. In the past, they displayed Princess Diana, Norman Rockwell, Egypt, and others. Upcoming is AMERICAN IMPRESSIONISM. My only disappointment was the cafe/bistro, where service was very slow. It didn't seem to be all that busy, and I didn't get a refill on my coffee until I walked up to the counter and asked for a refill. The gift shop is excellent, just like the museum.
The Dayton Art Institute is a real treasure, I especially enjoy the special exhibits and guest speakers they bring in. My favorite was the Norman Rockwell exhibit and the opportunity to hear Rick Steves speak about his travels. I enjoy the cafe there as well. I wish I had more time to go and explore.
This is great place to visit. Actually I did not expect this good before visit, but it was impressive and much more worth than I thought. Of course it was not comparable to big and famous art museum in big city. This is the place to visit when you are in the area.