RiverScape MetroPark: Dayton's Downtown Oasis
Experience Dayton's vibrant heart at RiverScape MetroPark: recreation, events, and natural beauty on the Great Miami River.
RiverScape MetroPark, once known as Van Cleve Park, has transformed into a dynamic centerpiece of downtown Dayton. Located on the banks of the Great Miami River, this Five Rivers MetroPark offers a blend of natural beauty and urban activity. The park boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, reflecting pools, and the impressive Five Rivers Fountain of Lights. The Dayton Inventors River Walk celebrates the city's rich history of innovation, honoring figures like Charles Kettering. Throughout the year, RiverScape hosts a variety of events, including summer concerts, community festivals like the Dayton Celtic Festival and Hispanic Heritage Festival, and winter ice skating. The MetroParks Ice Rink and the RiverScape Cafe provide seasonal attractions. The park also offers kayak and bike rentals, encouraging visitors to explore the Great Miami River and the surrounding trail network. RiverScape MetroPark is also a crucial link in the region's extensive trail system, connecting to over 300 miles of paved trails. The River Run project has enhanced water access and safety, creating a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is wheelchair accessible and offers amenities such as restrooms, drinking fountains, and food concessions.
Local tips
- Check the MetroParks website for the current schedule of events, including concerts, festivals, and ice-skating times.
- Take advantage of the park's location on the Great Miami River to rent a kayak or bike and explore the scenic waterways and trails.
- Visit the interactive fountains during the summer months for a refreshing way to cool off.
A brief summary to RiverScape MetroPark
- 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, Downtown, Ohio, 45402, US
- +1937-274-0126
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
- Thursday 8 am-10 pm
- Friday 8 am-10 pm
- Saturday 8 am-10 pm
- Sunday 8 am-10 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Dayton, RiverScape MetroPark is easily accessible on foot. If you're near Third and Main streets, walk three blocks north to Monument Avenue, then one block east into the park. The park is located at 237 E Monument Ave.
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Public Transport
The Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides bus service to RiverScape MetroPark. RTA routes 11, 16, 17, 18, and 19 (south) stop directly in front of the park at Festival Plaza on Monument Avenue between St. Clair and Jefferson streets. As of July 2025, a single ride on the RTA costs $2.20. Alternatively, the FREE Flyer shuttle runs a continuous loop from Monument Avenue by RiverScape MetroPark to the University of Dayton, stopping at major destinations downtown.
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Parking
Several parking lots and garages are located near RiverScape MetroPark. The East & West Lot at 409 E Monument Ave is a convenient option. Wiley Coyote Parking at 18 Gates St is also nearby. Parking rates vary, with hourly rates starting around $2.50 and daily rates around $10. Metered parking is available downtown and is free after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Attractions Nearby to RiverScape MetroPark
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Five Rivers MetroParks
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Day Air Ballpark
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Victoria Theatre
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Pedal Wagon Dayton
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Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center
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Deeds Point MetroPark
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The Heritage Sculpture
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McPherson Town Historic District
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The International Peace Museum
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Ned Peppers Bar
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Tumbleweed Connection
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The Dayton Art Institute
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America's Packard Museum
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Holbrooke Plaza
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Island MetroPark
Landmarks nearby to RiverScape MetroPark
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Memorial Hall
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James Brooks House
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Natalie Clifford Barney Historic Marker
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Lincoln Statue
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Courthouse Square
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The Conover Building
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Kuhns Building
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Dayton Arcade
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The Commercial Building
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Grant-Deneau Tower
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Oregon Historic District
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Destination Dayton
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Dayton Terra-Cotta Historic District
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Dayton Union Station Historical Landmark
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1905 Wright Flyer III Sculpture