HOME OF THE WRIGHT BROTHERS...

...and the Birthplace of Aviation! In November 2004, Congress recognized the Dayton region as the National Aviation Heritage Area, in honor of the region's leadership in our nation's aviation history. The National Aviation Heritage Area provides visitors with an opportunity to experience several significant sites associated with aviation, all within a short distance from each other.

It began with the Wright Brothers' invention of the airplane in the back of their cycle shop on Dayton's west side in 1903. They later perfected their flying machine on the testing grounds of Huffman Prairie Flying Field, just east of Dayton. Huffman is considered sacred ground by aviation aficionados the world over; meanwhile, the original 1905 Flyer, widely considered the world's most significant airplane still in existence, is on display at Carillon Historical Park in Dayton.

But the Dayton region’s contributions to aviation progress merely began with the Wrights. In later years, other milestones would occur in the Dayton region, such as the first military airfield, the first parachute jump, WACO’s dominance of civilian aircraft production between the World Wars, and much more. All told, Dayton truly is the Global Center of Aviation Heritage. Today, it continues that heritage as one of the most significant regions in the world for aviation advancement. Dayton is synonymous with aviation.

The National Aviation Heritage Area (NAHA) joins other select regions in existence around the country dedicated to protecting and promoting the historic, cultural and natural assets within those regions. NAHA is one of the few that represents more than a bygone era of heritage—it embodies an industry that is alive and well.

NAHA already has much to boast about when it comes to historical sites, artifacts and museums. Visitors will find much to experience, whether you spend a day or a full week traveling the Heritage Area. Ultimately, each visitor will have the opportunity to learn how the Wright brothers unlocked the millennia old secrets of human flight, and see how our nation’s aviation heritage unfolded following the Wright brothers’ invention.

Many agree that the airplane was the invention that changed the course of human history more than any other. Upon visiting NAHA, you will grasp that significance and come away with a new appreciation of one of America’s greatest stories. Come. Discover. Fly!

USE THE INTERACTIVE TRIP PLANNER

Easily make your travel arrangements within the NAHA region with our Web-based trip planner.

NOTE OUR SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR

Take advantage of the full calendar of aviation-related activities throughout the NAHA region.