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Kettering is a city of about 57,000 people just south of Dayton in southwestern Ohio. Formerly part of Van Buren Township, it incorporated in the 1950s and took its name from Charles F. Kettering, the inventor and engineer behind the electric self-starter for automobiles and a founder of Delco, who lived in the area.
Today Kettering is known as one of the Dayton region's most livable suburbs, with a strong parks system, cultural programs and the large Kettering Health medical campus. Its summer centerpiece is the Fraze Pavilion, an outdoor amphitheater in Lincoln Park Civic Commons that draws national touring acts.
Visitors can explore Hills and Dales MetroPark with its stone lookout tower, take an art class or see an exhibit at Rosewood Arts Centre, enjoy events at historic Polen Farm and join the crowds at the Holiday at Home festival over Labor Day weekend. The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, downtown Dayton and the Wright brothers sites are all within about 20 minutes.
A popular outdoor amphitheater with a covered stage, reserved seats and lawn space for about 4,300 people. Its summer season brings national touring musicians, comedians and tribute shows. Bring a blanket for the lawn, arrive early to find parking, and check the rules on chairs, food and bags before you go.
A central city park surrounding the Fraze Pavilion with a pond, walking paths, lawns, gardens and public art. It hosts festivals and community events through the warm months and is pleasant for a stroll before a concert. Benches around the water are good for a picnic, and restrooms are on site.
A large Kettering park with sports fields, a paved walking loop, playgrounds, a dog park and open green space, named for the Delco company that shaped the area. It is busy on weekends with soccer and softball games. It is a good place for a run or for children to burn off energy.
A wooded Five Rivers MetroPark on the Kettering and Oakwood border with hilly trails, ravines, a historic stone lookout tower and the rustic Adirondack Camp shelter. It is especially beautiful in fall color. The trails are short but steep in places, and a paved path is available for an easier walk.
A city-run arts center offering classes and workshops in pottery, painting, jewelry, dance and more, plus a gallery with rotating exhibitions by regional artists. Gallery visits are free. Check the schedule for open studios and special events, and look for drop-in workshops that welcome visitors.
A historic farmhouse and landscaped grounds owned by the City of Kettering and used for weddings, concerts and community events. The gardens and lawn are attractive for a short walk when no private event is on. Check the city calendar for public programs, as the house is not open for regular tours.
A large community recreation center with an outdoor water park, indoor pool, ice arena, fitness facilities and sports courts. Day passes are available for visitors, and public skating sessions run through much of the year. It is a good rainy-day or hot-day option for families; check session times before going.
A large community celebration held over Labor Day weekend since 1959, with a parade, arts and crafts show, live music, food vendors and family activities, centered around Lincoln Park Civic Commons. It draws big crowds from across the Dayton area, so arrive early for the parade and expect road closures.
A long-established shopping center on Stroop Road with a mix of local and national stores, restaurants, a grocery and services. It is one of Kettering's main gathering places for a meal or errands, and it hosts seasonal events. Park in the central lot and walk between shops and dining spots.
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Log in to add photosPhoto: Blervis, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo: Nyttend, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
Photo: Nyttend, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
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Photo: Coastermom, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
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