A Guide to Cheap Summer Family Fun in Dayton, Ohio

With gasoline inflation hitting an all time high, it's no wonder that many of us will be spending our summer near home. That's no reason to worry about boredom. Fortunately, the Dayton Ohio area has many family activities to offer at very reasonable rates.

One of Dayton's best known attractions is the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. Boonshoft has been entertaining local children and adults alike for 50 years. There is something for everyone in this bustling children's museum. Small children can enjoy That Kid's Playce with climbing, water play, small animals and dramatic elements. For the space explorers, there are daily planetarium shows and the Hall of the Universe. Animal lovers can explore Wild Ohio, a small zoo located on the second floor. As you may guess by the name, all animals on display can be found in the state of Ohio. If you happen to be in Wild Ohio at 4:00pm you can see the daily otter feeding. If you are interested in Egypt you must be sure to visit one of the museum's oldest residents: Nesiur the mummy. Young geologists will be fascinated by the glowing rocks. The museum is always hosting traveling exhibits, so while enjoying old favorites your family can discover something new. Admission is $7 for kids and seniors and $8.50 for adults. For as little as $69 you can purchase a family membership that will entitle you to free admission for a year, with many other benefits.

If you're looking for water play, then Splash Moraine is your ticket. The water park is located in Moraine, close to I-75. For small children, Splash Moraine offers a kiddie pool with 2 small slides and other play features. For other attractions, life jackets are available throughout the park free of charge. There is a lazy river that offers patrons a relaxing ride on one of the parks many free to use tubes. If you are looking for a little more action, you can visit the 20,000 square foot wave pool. Splash Moraine also offers two 25 foot slides. Admission to the park for non-Moraine residents is $7.50 for kids and $9.00 for adults. Season passes and group discounts are also available.

Another water park option is the Water Raves park in Kettering. Water Raves is situated on 3 acres near I-675 and the Greene. Water Raves offers 2 large water slides of its own. Next to the water slides is a waterfall pool. There is also a large shallow pool ranging from 0-4 feet deep. For young children, there is a kiddie pool with a small water slide and other play features. Water Raves also offers a large sand play area with water elements and a volleyball court. During limited hours guests also have access to the large main pool with diving boards and a small tube slide. There is an adults only whirlpool, sauna and steam room next to the main pool. Non-residents can expect to pay $6 for kids and $7 for adults.

There is no need to travel far and spend money on gas and parking when the Dayton Ohio area offers these great attractions. Cheap fun awaits your family this summer close to home.