The Dayton Art Institute

Dayton Art Institute Review The Dayton Art Institute is a hidden gem in Ohio, blending rich history with a surprisingly diverse collection of art. Housed in a stunning Italian Renaissance-style building overlooking the Miami River, the museum offers an experience that feels both intimate and inspiring. Its permanent collection spans over 5,000 years—from ancient artifacts to modern American works—with standout pieces by artists like Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Claude Monet. The rotating exhibitions are well-curated and often feature thought-provoking themes or spotlight lesser-known artists. The museum is also very community-friendly, hosting regular events, family programs, and live performances. It’s easy to navigate and never feels overcrowded, making it perfect for both art lovers and casual visitors. Admission is affordable, and the surrounding grounds offer great photo ops and a peaceful vibe. Verdict: A must-visit cultural destination in Dayton—elegant, accessible, and surprisingly impressive for its size.

Completely loved the museum. It was so pretty, clean, and cozy, full of good art. The arrangement of the rooms is just perfect, and all the staff were sweet and gentle.

This beautiful museum has a diverse collection from Ancient Asian art to modern art to impressionism to Dutch and everything in-between. The building is a joy to walk through and the cloistered garden is a gem.

Beautiful building and art! The staff are super friendly and it’s worth checking out all the cool events.

I got a pass from the library and it was such a nice afternoon with my daughter. The entire place is accessible, so using the stroller was a breeze. My baby got fussy at one point and I parked the stroller at the security desk and put her in her sling for an exhibit. There’s a nursing room we utilized and changing tables in their bathrooms (even a sign on the men’s!) They don’t allow liquids so we had to leave the sippy cup of water up front (understandable) and the security were very kind about it. It was a wonderful experience. My one gripe would be that there was a video playing in the children’s area when I let my daughter out of her stroller before leaving. It was distracting and personally we try to limit screens. She would have had more focus on the foam blocks without the excess lights and sound. We did enjoy reading books in that area and she was fascinated by the jelly bean butterfly sculpture! It was so nice to have an area she could stretch her legs after being cooped up and before the drive home.

I sincerely wish that they would institute some Germanic and Scandinavian art into this museum, Between all of the beautiful architecture, paintings, and historical artifacts from the Germanic and Viking era it would be an amazing addition There is a Large portion of the Dayton population that is yearning for some cultural appreciation like that. .Definitely something to check out, beautiful art and amazing atmosphere

A genuine prize for any city, the Dayton Art Institute is such an extraordinary thing. It embodies everything that any Museum would hope to be. It is a beautiful structure full of beautiful things, and there isn't any reason in the world to miss it. There are countless displays of art from every era and of every type. The building itself is a work of art! They're also are a number of ways for people to gain additional education and understanding of art in general. It also hosts numerous events and festivals which make the trip even more rewarding. Go to the Dayton Art Institute, take your family and friends, and perhaps donate a little money to keep this special place alive.

Been a while since I visited. Wonderful displays. Most galleries have benches so you can sit. .

I was very surprised at how good this art museum was, I had low expectations. The building itself is beautiful, you can see it as you drive around Dayton. The museum is built in a circle, so you can easily walk to each section. There are many different types of art, from different countries to different styles. They also had a beautiful courtyard that I would recommend spending some time to meditate in. The day we visited, there was a man playing an organ and we got to watch a bit of the performance. We ended up spending about 2 1/2 hours walking around, but you could spend more hours enjoying the art. The museum has a decent gift shop that we took a look at. They have plenty of free parking. Be careful what you have in your purse, they made me throw away a closed cereal bar, which I haven't had to do at a museum before.

After living in Dayton for approximately 5 years, I finally became a member. This has brought me great joy, especially on the weekends. Our fave Sunday includes a jaunt to the Oregon District for brunch, then a visit to DAI. Parking is easy and plentiful (and free!). Museum attendants are helpful and kind checking you in, and giving information as to latest special exhibits. Membership gives you free access to the exhibits. Dayton has a wonderful collection of ancient, modern, and everything in between. This is an amazing resource in our great city. The gift shop has unique items that are art-focused and high quality. Greeting cards, small replicas of famous paintings, they have it. There is an amazing option to add a free guest to your membership as well. Check their website for Sunday oregon concerts, as well. Truly a gem in the Gem City.

Most of the staff was super friendly and helpful. The place is massive and gorgeous! My group explored for probably around 2-3 hours and I don't feel like that was even close to enough time spent there. Was excited to see some works of Chihuly there. I also thought the local artist hall was awesome! They don't allow any outside food or drinks which is understandable. The gift shop was nice and the prices weren't too bad. Overall great experience and I would go back!

Great exhibits, mobility impaired accessible and a friendly staff! It's an ideal place to spend the day looking at wonderful art pieces from around the world.

PROS: Had our first visit to Dayton Art Institute today. Wow! What an AMAZING collection of art. The entire first floor contains classic European works which could easily take a couple hours to view and truly absorb. The museum itself is beautifully designed and you seemlessly move from one exhibit hall to the next. If you're a true art lover who enjoys savoring the experience, be sure to allow several hours to fully digest the art here. CONS: I've always gravitated toward indigenous art and while there were some exhibits devoted to it, I wish they had more native art. Also, weirdly we were closely followed from one exhibit hall to the next by one of the museum staffers for most of the ground floor. We definitely felt stalked and couldn't figure out what we had done to arouse their suspicion as we never stepped too close to the art or attempted to touch anything.

Nice collection of art. It's a peaceful retreat in the area. Heavy on religious paintings. The special collections from New Mexico was interesting and told a nice story.

Amazing find today. It could easily take you 3 days to walk through all of the exhibits. We did it in one day, but if you are an art lover, take your time. We checked our coats in using the lockers. Bring a quarter. You can also use the coat rack for free. After a couple of hours of looking and reading the art work, we took a break and had some libations. They also have light snacks for purchase. I would advise you not to wear a backpack or purse as a backpack. A security guard caught me by surprise and told me to hold my backpack purse in my hand. Definitely suggest this attraction. They also have room for a reception.

Our visit to the art institute was my first and Nicole's first in a long time. Parking was free. The entrance fee was $15pp and our four year old was free. We used the coat rack to check your own coats. The exhibits were housed on mainly two levels. You enter at the mezzanine and either go up or down a set of stairs. The museum is divided into three main wings: on the higher level is the Berry Wing of European Art, the Dicke Wing of American Art and the Patterson-Kettering Wing of Asian Art. On the lower level, the museum also features 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. With more than 27,000 objects, spanning 5,000 years of art history, at any given time, the museums collection galleries display about 1,000 works from the collection. We also saw special collections which rotate: Ralston Crawford: Air + Space + War which is available until January 23, 2022 and featured 72 works---paintings, drawings and photographs by the American artist. Crawford was influenced by aviation through personal experiences in flight, his exposure to the construction of airplanes and the destruction they wrought in WWII, and the atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll. These experiences had a profound impact on Crawford and marked a major turning point in his life and art. More familiar to everyone Norman Rockwell: Stories of Emotion which is available till February 13 , 2022, and features paintings and drawings, on loan from a private collection, by America's most beloved artist and illustrator, Norman Rockwell (1894-1978). Next we saw, Within Reach of All: Early Dayton Photography which is available till February 6, 2022 and featured local pictures made by amateur and professional photographers of the Buckeye State. We had great time perusing the above. Lately it seems my interest in glass works has appreciated, for no particular reason. Our little one also enjoyed the Children's exhibit area which featured coloring pencils with sheets of paper printed with letters, as well other interactive art and exhibits. It's worth a visit and perhaps one day we will be back.

A smaller museum with a big impact, The Dayton Art Institute is a truly remarkable gem in the heart of Dayton, OH. Boasting a beautifully curated collection of art from various eras and regions, this museum offers something for everyone. From its impressive European and American galleries to its Asian and contemporary collections, the institute provides an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The building itself is a work of art, and the view overlooking the river is stunning. It's the perfect place to spend a quiet few hours absorbing culture and beauty. During our visit, we were able to explore the life and work of Post-Impressionist artist, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in a fairly extensive exhibition. And we ended our trip with a stop in the DAI Museum Store, which would be a great place to find the perfect gift for the art lover.

Well it isn't free anymore, I guess that stopped around 4 years ago, around the last time I went. The displays haven't changed much in that time. I like the modern art exhibits. The building is very confusing but also very artfully confusing so I liked it. There was live organ music when we went playing Christmas music. Fun time but bring 15 dollars a person.

tried again. still not good. still rude security. snappy and maybe its just mine, but kids have no patience for walking, reading plaques, and nobody seems to care much about anything, dusty as hell. my point stands.

I had a fantastic visit today and really enjoyed the art. For a Sunday afternoon, the galleries were surprisingly quiet. I have no doubt that it gets busier during the week but this time was peaceful and I had many of the rooms to my self. The "hats" gallery was interesting but I much preferred the American and European art. These are what I come to museums to see and they have it all displayed very cleanly. There was some seating which was helpful. Of course, the free wifi was excellent too. I love Bonnard, Pissarro and Renoir, so having the opportunity to spend some time with these masters was wonderful. The Monet exhibit (a dozen of them) was almost overwhelming! Absolutely terrific and a welcome dose of culture in Dayton OH. [Review 11442 overall, 1220 of 2019.]

Wonderful museum w/lots of art to admire and history! It's a beautiful building to start off but some of the art is absolutely gorgeous - especially the sculptures made out of jade and marble! I would love to come back to see what they show case next b/c I didn't care for their current spot light artist. The staff was friendly and attentive except for the ladies in the gift shop - they don't even acknowledge your presence.

Hubby and I visited Dayton Art Institute on a quiet summer afternoon, expecting a short trip. We parked right up front (free) and headed in. The museum is two full floors of galleries arranged in a diamond shape. When we visited there were 3 guest exhibits. It was quiet and well distanced. Everything was clean and well organized. We will be glad to return.

Really liked this museum. Extra friendly staff on hand, very welcoming. Great artwork to view. Really impressed...and I've been to 20 plus art museums across the US.

Unfortunately when I visited the Dayton Art Institute in early March of 2019, they had closed the entire upper floor (American and European Art) for renovations. For those looking to visit these wings, check their website or social media to see when they re-open! However, their lower level special exhibition ("For America") and the Patterson-Kettering wing of Asian Art was still open. They weren't charging the "suggested general admission fee" for the regular exhibits, but you'll still have to pay for the special exhibits. I really enjoyed the Asian wing and, being Thai, liked that they had a large section dedicated to Southeast Asian art since most museums don't. There was also some beautiful, intricate glass art in the museum at the Eilleen Dicke Gallery of Glass - definitely check this out!

Wish I'd had more time to see the whole museum, but it was hard for me to stand after so long. My grandmother got a letter of commendation from the governor for her volunteer work in bringing the arts to Dayton.

We spent an afternoon at this gallery. It's a wonderful collection of art from a wide variety of artist. Although a fair percentage of the work is paintings, there are lamps, chairs, stools, pots, clocks, spoons, candle sticks, desks, statues, and on and on. It's a wonderful way to spend some time on a cold Ohio wintry day.

Love the variation of art that is separated into different areas I went to look at a specific piece and looked at other pieces while there was amazed

I come from a major city in Texas that doesn't have an art museum that can compare to this treasure in Dayton. We went on a whim one weekend and were blown away by the architecture. The building itself is a work of art. They have an impressive collection all around. You could definitely spend a good half day in here admiring all of the beautiful art. The children's area is interactive and I have made plans to bring my nanny kid to the kids meet up during the week.

I really enjoy this museum. First, the building itself is beautiful. I have attended many of their special exhibitions (Dale Chihuly 2001, Norman Rockwell in 2012, and Ravaged Sublime in 2016)and have always been impressed. This museum is much smaller than the Cincinnati Art Museum, but they have excellent special exhibits. Additionally, I have attended their Oktoberfest in the past and found that their special events are very well put together. In additional to their art galleries, they have lovely outdoor spaces as well and incorporate the artwork in their courtyard and on the lawn of the museum. Their top level is separated into European and American wings. They go through the time line of each region's artwork and have traditional artwork as well as furniture and sculpture. Thumbs up!

My 100th review. Woo hoo. And what better to write it on than the Dayton Art Institute. Not only is it fortunate we have such an upstanding museum right here in Dayton, Ohio, I can attest that's it's one of the top Art Museums in the country. The experience begins the first time you see the building - whether up close or from the highway. It is a work of art in itself...going back to an era when details were important. I never quit marveling at the structure itself. The art - top notch. I'm a little traditional so my favorite is the Impressionists. And Monet Water Lilies is my favorite painting here. Followed closely by an Edward Hopper. And any of the "traveling exhibits" which change out from 2 - 4 times a year. The current one focuses on water, and it's very though provoking. And down right entertaining with 200+ mechanical penquins (my current crush). The gift shop is full of beautiful things, and I've spent a ton of money here thru the years (my favorite purchase being an oil transfer of the Monet Water Lilies). And personnel is helpful and super friendly. I believe attendance is free...let's hear it for free. I'm not really sure still iscause I have a membership but I believe it is. There is a charge for special exhibits, but that's also covered by a membership. I encourage everyone to spring for that cause it's very reasonable and gets you into any art museum in Ohio. I take full advantage of mine. And there a great bistro on site where you can have a world class meal and a class of wine. Does it get any better than that? Leo Bistro ... listed here on Yelp. My review will be listed under "coming attractions"

Why would I spend way too much time loading a truckload of photos here? Honestly, it's sadly revealing that this museum has only a handful of reviews and photos so I wanted to give it some much-needed attention on Yelp. I wonder if this may be the most overlooked art museum in the United States. Indeed, there were only a few visitors during my visit. I basically had the place to myself: good for me but not good for museum with a trove of art that other cities would jealously covet. If the museum picked itself up and relocated to a major city, attendance would jump. While there are no iconic works here, the collection itself is comprehensive so it's like a mini-Metropolitan museum. I think the standouts are its African, Central American, and Pacific islands art. I have a few favorites. The first is a limestone lintel from Yaxchilan, circa 550-950. Having been to this area on the Mexico-Guatemala a few times, I was pleasantly surprised to see this well-preserved panel. Another favorite is a stone relief with two Chinese dragons, circa 14th-15th century. The interplay between the dragons is fascinating. In contemporary art, I love Alison Saar's 'Lost and Found', a 2003 wood, tin, and wire composition of two women seated in chairs. Their electrifying large manes of hair enjoin them. If you live in Dayton, get on Yelp and write about this cultural institution. If you live in Ohio, make this place a weekend trip then let the world know about this place.

I love going to the Dayton art institute!! I think it's very insightful and I love to look at all the different paintings. I know this really doesn't have anything to do with the Institute but normally they have more things in the children's exhibit. I believe that is due to Covid but many places are lifting restrictions I don't understand why don't they add more things back to it. Overall they made up for it by adding in a treasure hunt for kids with different art pieces that they have to find. Me and the little ones had loads of fun

In the Dayton area? This is a must see. University of Dayton students are admitted free. Reasonable entrance fee for others. The view from the museum alone is art. Located on a hill sitting above the river and with a view of the Dayton city skyline. Just breathtaking. The building is architecturally interesting. I took several shots from gorgeous windows and ornate metal doors. There is a cloister outdoor area with the most interesting mix of artistic elements. Wooden roofing around the perimeter suggests stenciling from maybe Turkish or Hindu origins, there are Asian inspired downspouts, a beautiful fountain in the center with decorative shrubbery surrounding it. Just a beautiful spot to stop and be mindful of the present Various collections are offered including an impressive selection of Native American art. We encountered several docents throughout our visit who were both friendly and knowledgeable about the art displayed. They also gave us some great tips about other attractions in Dayton. There are also several works with QRC codes and an app for your phone that will supply information about the artworks. Oktoberfest was going on while we were there Bonus. Lots of local artisans displaying there wares, music, food, entertainment. This is an annual fundraiser for the Institute.

So its an art museum, its always a great time spending a couple of hours looking at beautiful things. The DAI is in a two story building, specifically built for the art collection, on the other side of the interstate from downtown Dayton. There is plenty of parking with a number of statues out front. The building is a circular design, with their American and European permanent collections on the top floor and special exhibits on the bottom floor, as well as some of their smaller collections. The building also has an outside inner circle, where there can be some interesting event can be held. The permanent collection has a stronger representation of American contemporary artist and American post impressionists, but only limited European representation from the same period. As well as a good examples of older styles and periods. Quite enjoyable, with the various paintings/sculptures/items well label, with the ability to find additional information via a smart phone. The Museum is also part of the North American Museum Association, so admission was covered by our membership of our local museum. The building is showing its age a bit - but it really is a wonderful building. Also there very little other stores/restaurants/coffee shops around the museum - they do have a Cafe inside, but we arrived early and we had to go back into downtown to find a coffee shop.

Here for the monthly Jazz Concert in The Cloisters. Always a great show and free to members. Good crowd good food and drink and great music in a nice setting. If you want a table for eating, best get here when the doors open at 5. Otherwise, usually plenty of regular seating.

When the "Diana, A Celebration" exhibit of the life of Princess Diana first started touring America, Dayton's very own art institute scored an impressive coup by being the only museum in our region to be graced with this exhibition. I remember standing in awe before her beautiful wedding dress with it's 25 foot train. Her dress was yellowing with age but it was still very regal. I was deeply moved that this piece of history was right in front of my eyes. I was also sad at the circumstances that led to it being here. Diana was "The People's Princess" and she had come and gone in what seemed to be the blink of an eye... And so began my introduction to the Dayton Art Institute. My curiosity was peaked with this first visit and since then, I've made several further visits to explore this superb museum in as many years. The museum is impressive in regards to the collection itself and of the building it is housed in. This is an art collection befitting a city the size of Dayton. It's large enough to keep my interest but it's not overwhelming. The DAI has made acquisitions over the years that now comprise 26,000 pieces of art with every theme: Asian, African, Oceanic, European, American, sculptures, glass, ancient or modern that comprise the permanent collection of art from ancient Egypt to contemporary art. Rotating exhibits featuring different artists and styles are always on display. The Art Institute does a wonderful job keeping things fresh and interesting. They currently have Objects of Devotion, Medieval English Alabaster Sculptures on loan from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, England on display. Unfortunately, I did not have time to go through this exhibit, but it does look interesting. The building itself is a wonderful. 60,000 square feet and well laid out. It is easy to navigate as you are drawn through the building. It is a beautiful example of the Italian Renaissance style. Modeled after a villa in Rome Italy and built in 1930 on the hill opposite downtown Dayton, it was built as a statement that Dayton was a city to be reckoned with in both art and culture. You should expect to spend at least a couple of hours there. There are two levels with many galleries to get lost in which is the most enjoyable way to visit. You may obtain a map at the admissions counter or do like I do and just wander. The recently remodeled museum gift shop has a generous amount of unique, quality merchandise. Newly expanded, it's full of great things that you just don't find in regular stores. I'd encourage you to consider it for any gifts you might need to buy. You'll be helping out the museum along with having something special and different to give. If you need to take a break, there's the Leo Bistro offering lighter fare such as salads, sandwiches and light entrees. The look of the place is light and pleasant. Service is available tableside but there's also items available at the counter. Kudos to the curator, the museum staff and the City of Dayton for a job well done.

During our recent ten-day trip to Dayton, Ohio to visit with family and friends (an early xmas present from our children to us and their children), we spent five gorgeous hours of a Sunday at The Dayton Art Institute (DAI), The Living Room of Dayton, which enabled us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. Established in 1919, it is an impressive world-class museum of Fine Arts, it has been rated one of the top 10 best Art museums in the United States for children and it ranks in the top 3% of all Art museums in North America. It has a Senior and Military Discount while Students and ages 17 and under are no charge. Some exhibits have an additional fee. It is Disabled-Friendly. Known for is Youth and Family Programs, DAI's children's experimental section was enjoyed by our grandchildren trying on clothes as seen in various paintings and playing with different types of media. Updated with a design by architect Edward B. Green in 1930, it is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. DAI was modeled after the Casino in the beautiful gardens of the Villa Farnese at Caprarola, and its sensuous front hillside stairway after the romantic Italian Renaissance garden stairs at the Villa d'Este, near Rome, and Italy. The museum's eclectic collection contains some 20,000 objects spanning 5,000 years. We were particularly charmed or intrigued or smitten by Purple Leaves by Georgia O'Keeffe (I decided that if I could paint that flower in a huge scale, you could not ignore its beauty.), Water Lilies by Claude Monet (Color is my day-long obsession, joy and torment.), American Indian Series (Russell Means) by Andy Warhol (Land really is the best Art.), Scene in Yosemite Valley by Albert Bierstadt (Truly all is remarkable and a wellspring of amazement and wonder. Man is so fortunate to dwell in this American Garden of Eden.), and Sea Change by Helen Frankenthaler (I have always been concerned with painting that simultaneously insists on a flat surface and then denies it.) DAI has not only Art pieces of well-known painters but also fine painters from Ohio and talented less well-known American Artists. In addition, American furniture is displayed, as is sculpture, and a wide range of cool events are routinely held here. Quite understandably, no smoking, vaping or "pointy thing" is allowed here and those rules are strictly enforced by no-nonsense Security. There is plenty of seating. The restrooms are clean. Every army practices deception. If they don't, they can't win, and they know it, said General Wesley Clark, United States Army. Did you know that during WWII, the U.S. Army's 603rd Company (The Ghost Army) had a unique mission: to deceive German troops into thinking Allied Troops were in one location, while real troops advanced miles away. They successfully accomplished their mission, and it was all done with Art by some 1,300 artists on Active Duty. Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak. The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting. Both said by General Sun Tzu circa 500 BC. Pioneered in WWII by British Armed Forces, The Ghost Army used inflatable tanks, sound effects, and imagination to regularly fool the Germans on the dangerous battlefields of Europe. The unsung heroes of the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops and the 3133rd Signal Company Special saved thousands of lives and helped win the war, but their efforts were kept secret for fifty years. "Their job was to create a traveling road show of deception on the battlefields of Europe, with the German Army as their audience. From Normandy to the Rhine, the men of the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, known as the Ghost Army, conjured up phony convoys, phantom divisions, and make-believe headquarters to fool the enemy about the strength and location of American units. Each deception required that they impersonate a different (and vastly larger) U.S. unit. Like actors in a repertory theater, they would mount an ever-changing multimedia show tailored to each operation. The American GIs immersed themselves in their roles, even hanging out at local cafes and spinning their counterfeit stories for spies who might lurk in the shadows. Painstakingly recorded sounds of armored and infantry units were blasted from sound trucks; radio operators created phony traffic nets; and inflatable tanks, trucks, artillery and even airplanes were imperfectly camouflaged so they would be visible to enemy reconnaissance. The soldiers did most of their deceptions close to the front lines. They took artillery fire. Two dozen were wounded. Three were killed." Several of these U.S. Ghost Army Soldier-Artists became famous post-war. Fashion designer Bill Blass; painter, sculptor, and printmaker Ellsworth Kelly; wildlife artist Arthur Singer; and fashion and music photographer Art Kane all served in the 603rd. Expose yourself to Art. Art changes lives. Live it.

This museum has a wide variety of art.Though there is not a lot of significant and famous pieces, the museum collection is very well represented as it has a bit of everything from the Flemish masters to modern paintings to Tiffany glass vases and lamps just to name a few. It even has sixteenth century Russian icons. However; my favorite part of the museum was its Asian, American and African collections which include ancient pottery, statues of Buddha and oriental art. I really enjoyed the time I spent at the museum on a wet and gloomy Saturday afternoon.

Decided to check out the "impressive?" 100 years of Japanese woodblock prints at the DAI. So disappointed to find only 7 of the 350 prints on display. The marketing texts says display will be rotating every 3 months. Hmmm, so if you would like to visit another 4 times throughout the year to see only 30 of the 350 prints... again very disappointed. Three stars since their permanent collection currently on display is quite impressive.

DAI is a great place to go to for an adult evening or even a afternoon outing with the family. My kids love going to DAI to explore the children's area. I enjoy that we usually can make it through an exhibit or two while we're at it. Pieces are circulated well but there are permanent exhibits that my family always has to see. If in town around Mothers Day make sure to stop in for brunch. If not just stop in for a little more culture in your life.

We visited this museum a few weeks ago and thought it was "o.k." The building's interior is very attractive, although it's not very large (which isn't a criticism, and it's not surprising when considering the size of Dayton). There was a small permanent collection and a few small temporary exhibits, both of which were somewhat interesting. I certainly wouldn't go out of my way to visit this museum, but we were passing by Dayton and decided to check it out. We were glad there was free admission (which also included free parking), as we really don't think the museum (would) warrant very much of an admission price.

As previously stated, this gem consistently gets great exhibits that you think would be reserved for larger, more "happening" cities. They just concluded a WONDERFUL glass exhibit, showcasing some lesser-known Chihuly works and other breath-taking glass masterpieces. I wish I hadn't waited to so close to the end of the run, because I'd have loved to see this several times!! There's definitely something for EVERYONE here, you can take your time and just focus on one region (you could spend a week in their amazing Asian wing!!) or do what we did, and skip around and get a taste of different sections once you're finished seeing the attraction you came for. It was such a beautiful fall day, and it's a beautiful setting. This past weekend, they held their super-popular Octoberfest (hint: if you go, do the satellite parking, otherwise you'll NEVER find a spot!!) and there are tons of community events going on all year... Something for everyone!! We don't take advantage of this great resource nearly often enough, esp. since moving a bit farther away to Spfld., so will be sure to keep an eye out for future events/exhibits!!

Great staff, excellent bathrooms, superb gift shop and gallery. Great flooring! Really cool festival in fall: Oktoberfest

The Dayton Art Institute (DAI) has a great mixture of art for any art fan. I grew up in the Dayton area and my first exposure to an art museum was through DAI. I love walking in the lobby of the museum and the marble floor complimented by the wrought iron handrails. In the late 80's the institute acquired the Ponderosa, Inc. contemporary art collection (the steak restaurant chain who's original headquarters were in Dayton, but now in Texas) which you can find in the main gallery, which has Warhol and a few other notable 20th century artists. All glass fans will enjoy the Eileen Dickey gallery of glass right below the main lobby just walk down the stairs from the lobby with a few Chihuly pieces. DAI has a great Oktoberfest in late September on the outside grounds of the museum, one of the main fundraisers for the museum. You can pick up a special locally made commemorative mug just for the event to fill with special Oktoberfest beer. I enjoyed the Lightpaintings exhibit by Stephen Knapp the mixture of glass and light just jumped off the wall in the special exhibition gallery in the lower level of the museum, but check out this exhibit fast it closes Jan 6 2013.

Unfortunately (and I suppose this is my fault for not checking in advance) the day I came to visit the Art Institute, almost the entire museum was closed for repairs. The ticket seller told me it had all been closed for a "while" and was not able to tell me when the whole museum would again be open. The overall experience was extremely disappointing. I won't be back, and, since the staff don't know when it will again be fully operational, I can't recommend anyone invest their time in making a trip.

Love coming here when they have an exhibit that piques my interest, which sadly is not every year. They have around 4 to 5 large exhibitions each year. Cost is not high and they call it a "donation." I honestly do not recommend the Oktoberfest here unless you do not want a genuine, authentic German Oktoberfest experience and would prefer a drunken fest. Once it hits dark at Oktoberfest it is no longer family friendly! Thankfully the Greater Dayton area has tons better options for Oktoberfest. I recommend the yoga events here at DAI. Beautiful, peaceful settings and friendly people.

I recently leased an apartment near the DAI and have been spending some time there. Though hard to compare to the truly great museums such as the Met, the DAI has a wonderful collection, supported by a knowledgeable, dedicated staff and wonderful building.

Free art museum! And its good! Two unexpected characteristics for an art institute found in the city of Dayton. The museum is located in a beautiful building, housing a collection that is surprisingly large. With some big names in art inside, the museum has sifted through and created a list of what they call "90 Treasures" highlighting particularly special pieces to be found. Also, I have to note that the explanations of each piece that the curators wrote are extremely helpful and informative. Rather than telling you how you should think or feel about each work of art, like some art plaques at museums, these simply give background about the artists, the time periods, and the social implications of each piece during its time. Very well done. It is worth your time to come check this museum out!

I found myself with a bunch of free time in Dayton, Ohio the other day. Just imagine that for a second. Thankfully my trusty Yelp app was there to show me the way. My first stop was the Dayton Art Institute. A stately collection of buildings atop a hill across the river from downtown. On this particular day, there was a line out the door of folks waiting to see the Norman Rockwell exhibit. I would have liked to have seen it, but my entire experience would have been the line to get in, what else can we get into? The answer is quite a bit. On the bottom level there are galleries filled with art from all over the world. I particularly liked this part. There's several tiny rooms, I got a little lost. There are big wings upstairs with European and American art. I kind of rushed through these areas, I did see a lot of nice furniture. I think you can do the whole place in an hour or two. Certainly worth a look if you live nearby.

Pleasantly surprised! I love going to art museums but when you hear free art museum (save maybe the Smithsonian or Tate), you wonder just how much they are going to have and if its going to be any good. Well, don't wonder that about here. You will have a great time! There was a wonderful quality to all of the work exhibited. There was nothing that didn't fit and their was a good mixture of unknowns to notable artists that it made it a treat to realize you were looking at a Picasso without even realizing it. I've been to some of the top art museums in the world and I think that this one is right up there with them. And its free!!!!!!

The building itself is beautiful. The collection is also impressive, as other reviewers have noted, for a regional museum. I really wasn't there long enough to provide an in-depth review but wanted to add my voice to those who are highlighting this as a great gift to Dayton and to Ohio in general.

Lovely museum. They bring in some unique and enjoyable exhibits- see an exhibit or peruse their collection, then you can have a great lunch or dinner in the Oregon District!

I think there could be more to the museum, it was free to get into though, but would have rather spent money to have a fun cool place to visit.

The Dayton Art Institute has a modest collection; not special, but fine. However, my experience of visiting the museum was not enjoyable because the security guard was strangely aggressive in speaking to patrons. Instead of speaking in the polite manner of a standard museum security guard, he adopted the tone of angry airport security. I related this to the manager who was polite and appropriate, but I still left the museum thinking "If the collection is nothing special and the experience is unpleasant, why bother visiting?" In getting ready to post this review, I scanned the other reviews of the Dayton Art Institute and noticed that there were two other reviews in which patrons mentioned not feeling comfortable with their interactions with staff. Given that there are only about 30 reviews of the museum, it is weird that 10 % mention a negative staff interaction.

Lovely galleries and a great collection. A perfect place to enjoy a day with a friend or solo. Enjoy!!

A wonderful compact art museum with a spirited overview of world art. Its music programs still ring in my mind's ear. It's façade overlooking the Great Miami River (and the tragic link of I-75) is one of the most beautiful in the country. See the Hopper, see the Sheeler, the Monet and the Reginald Marsh, paintings from the Renaissance, see the Ohio artists, the photography, the great shows - see everything.

I love the Dayton Art Institute! You never would believe all the amazing works that come though Dayton! This is the first place I witnessed Chihuly so many years ago--now my favorite artist! They have had their run of a real mummy and all sorts of famous works. The Dayton Art Institute is hands down one of the best kept secrets in the area!