Despite alarming warnings to “avoid downtown” during the upcoming NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Downtown Dayton is determined to bust the myth that it will be off-limits. City officials and small business owners stress that downtown Dayton will remain open for business throughout the NATO 2025 event, with restaurants, cafes, bars, boutiques, and shops fully accessible to the public. Far from a ghost town, the city’s core is gearing up for an upbeat, all-welcome atmosphere – and locals are encouraged to come enjoy everything downtown has to offer.
Security Plans Spark Concern, But No Downtown Lockdown
When Dayton was announced as host of the Spring 2025 NATO Parliamentary Assembly (May 22–26), news of an extensive security perimeter raised eyebrows. Initial communications highlighted a “NATO Village” secure zone covering a large swath of downtown, where access to much of downtown Dayton will be restricted from May 21-27 and all vehicle traffic would be restricted, and pedestrian access would be limited. Comments from organizers further emphasized limited pedestrian traffic in the area. These warnings – amplified by media reports – led many to believe that everyone except official delegates should simply stay away.
Local small businesses, already stretched thin post-pandemic, grew anxious that such messaging would scare off customers during what is normally a busy spring week. At a public Q&A forum on March 20, some even heard suggestions that downtown shops might consider “taking a vacation” and closing up during the NATO conference. “Closing up shop for a week with no revenue and paying the entire staff is not feasible for many businesses,” responded Nikki Stargel, vice president of the Oregon District Business Association, calling the suggestion “insulting” as covered by Dayton Daily News. The prospect of a week-long slump in foot traffic had retailers and restaurateurs understandably worried.
However, city officials quickly clarified that Downtown Dayton is not shutting down. Jason Galanes, chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Mike Turner (R-Dayton) and a lead NATO event planner, explained that while a fenced security zone will be in place for delegates’ safety, planners “made a point of not requiring any businesses to close” during the Assembly. In other words, no downtown shop or restaurant is being forced to shutter its doors. The secure “NATO Village” (about 68 acres of downtown) will be accessible only to credentialed attendees, but areas outside and inside that fenced perimeter – which include the vast majority of downtown businesses – remain open to everyone.
City and Downtown Dayton Partnership leaders listened to local entrepreneurs’ concerns and even revised the security map to reduce the impact. The initial NATO zone plan, for example, would have walled off part of the lively Fire Blocks District on East Third Street, home to popular eateries and bars. After feedback, the boundaries were adjusted to exclude the 100 block of E. Third Street, ensuring no security fencing will block those storefronts. Downtown Dayton Partnership officials echoed that optimism, stating, “Despite the disruptions and challenges an event of this nature will cause, we’re excited for the opportunity to show the world what we all love about Dayton.”
In short, don’t believe the hype that you should avoid downtown. Security will be tight, but it’s not a downtown “shutdown.” As Dayton’s Mayor Jeffrey Mims Jr. put it, hosting NATO is a chance to put Dayton’s best face forward: “It gives us a chance to show people what we really have,” Mims said, emphasizing that the whole community is proud to welcome this event. Local officials actively encourage residents to come downtown, not stay away, during NATO week, a message not shared by Jason Galanes and Dayton Daily News.
Downtown Dayton Restaurants Are Open and Ready to Serve
One of the best reasons to head downtown during the NATO 2025 Assembly is the food. Downtown Dayton’s restaurants and cafes will all be open and eager to serve both locals and visitors. In fact, event planners want to show off our dining scene: NATO delegates and their guests will be encouraged to visit downtown restaurants, shops, galleries and other destinations during their stay, with certain free periods set aside for them to explore the city. So you might find yourself dining next to an international parliamentarian or journalist – a unique opportunity to share Dayton’s hospitality.
The downtown Dayton restaurant scene is diverse and delicious. With dozens of independent restaurants and cafés to choose from, there’s something for every palate. Craving a sizzling steak or gourmet pasta? How about a hot slice of pizza or fresh sushi? Downtown’s eateries have you covered. You can grab lunch at a cozy sidewalk café or an authentic Thai bistro, then enjoy dinner in an Irish pub or an elegant restaurant atop a hotel tower with skyline views. Many downtown restaurants also offer live entertainment or outdoor patio seating – perfect for the late-May weather.
Downtown Dayton’s bars, breweries and coffee shops will be open as well. Whether it’s your morning latte from a local coffeehouse or an after-work craft beer from Dayton’s brewpubs, you won’t have to give up your routine. In the evenings, downtown’s taverns and cocktail lounges will be pouring drinks and welcoming regulars and newcomers alike (keep an eye out; you might even spot NATO attendees unwinding there). The city’s popular Downtown Dayton DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) will still allow patrons to stroll certain areas with to-go beverages in hand, adding to the fun, vibrant atmosphere.
Unique Downtown Dayton Shopping: Boutiques, Galleries and More
Dining isn’t the only highlight – downtown Dayton shopping is very much open for business, too. You can shop at the mall or big-box stores anytime, but you can’t find Dayton’s one-of-a-kind boutiques anywhere else. Downtown’s shops are overwhelmingly local, independent businesses – the kind of small retailers that give a city character. Strolling downtown, you’ll discover stores selling unique gifts, art, and goods that you won’t find in any chain store
Looking for something special? Check out the galleries featuring work by local artists, a shop full of handmade jewelry and crafts, or the vintage clothing and record stores stocked with rare finds. From fresh floral bouquets to artisan chocolates, vinyl records to comic books, downtown’s retailers truly offer “something for every taste”. Many of these shops are clustered along easily walkable streets like St. Clair, Fifth, and in the historic Oregon District – all outside the NATO secure zone, completely accessible to shoppers.
Don’t forget services and entertainment, too. Downtown Dayton also has all the services you might need day-to-day: salons and barbers, spas, fitness clubs, tailors, tech repair shops, and more. Those businesses will be open and operating normally for their clients. Planning to run errands or keep your workout schedule? You can absolutely do that downtown during NATO week. In the evenings, downtown’s theaters and music venues will still host shows (check local listings – some venues like the Schuster Center and Victoria Theatre are hosting NATO meetings by day, but will resume their usual programming at night).
A Rare Chance to Experience Downtown Dayton in a New Light
Rather than a reason to avoid downtown, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly is being treated as a celebration in Dayton. It’s not often our city hosts dignitaries from 30+ nations – and local leaders have organized special things to do in Dayton around this event that everyone can enjoy. For example, the University of Dayton will host “The Dayton Dialogue: Conversations about Peace & Security in the Balkans,” a series of a dozen panel discussions coinciding with the Assembly and open to the public. This is a fantastic opportunity for residents to engage in global policy conversations sparked by Dayton’s role on the world stage. Another highlight is the Concert for Peace featuring the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra (with support from the Dayton Philharmonic) – a special performance that will bring a bit of international culture downtown. Events like these mean that even if you’re not an official NATO delegate, you can still participate in the excitement and learning surrounding the conference.
Downtown itself is also getting spruced up to shine for the occasion. The city has invested in extra beautification projects – from fresh plantings to public art – to ensure Dayton looks its best. The result for locals is a cleaner, brighter downtown environment that can be enjoyed well beyond the NATO visit. You might notice new murals, cleaned-up streets, or restored historic facades when you come downtown, thanks to these improvements.
If you simply want to soak in the atmosphere, downtown will not disappoint. The Memorial Day weekend vibe combined with the presence of international visitors is likely to create a festive scene. Imagine outdoor diners on patios, flags of NATO countries displayed around downtown, and a general buzz of activity. Some downtown businesses are even planning special deals or menu items to welcome NATO guests and entice locals to join in the fun – so keep an eye on your favorite spots’ social media for any NATO-week specials.
In addition, all the usual downtown Dayton attractions will be available to enjoy. The RiverScape MetroPark along the Miami River is open for an afternoon stroll or a relaxing bike ride. The Dayton Art Institute (just across the river from downtown) is a perfect cultural escape for those looking for daytime activities. And don’t forget the historic Oregon District’s nightlife, which will be lively as ever with live music, pub trivia, and more. There is no shortage of things to do in Dayton while the NATO meetings take place – if anything, there’s a little something extra in the air.
Support Local Dayton Businesses and Be Part of the Story
Perhaps the most important reason not to avoid downtown during NATO week is this: Dayton’s small businesses need you. Our local Dayton businesses have worked tirelessly to bounce back from recent challenges and prepare for this global event. They are the backbone of the community – run by our neighbors, creating local jobs, and giving downtown its unique flavor. Supporting these downtown Dayton small businesses during the NATO Assembly isn’t just about one week’s sales; it’s about showing the world what our community is all about.
City officials note that hosting an event of this magnitude can have lasting benefits. It puts Dayton on the map for future tourism and investment. But those benefits only materialize if we demonstrate a thriving, welcoming city. That’s why the community’s support for local businesses now is critical. Regular residents play a role in that hospitality too, by patronizing downtown establishments and creating a friendly, bustling environment for visitors.
So, don’t let the NATO security perimeter scare you off. Instead, think of NATO week as a time to embrace downtown Dayton. Stop by your favorite coffee shop for your morning brew, enjoy a lunch on Fifth Street, or plan an evening out at a downtown restaurant you’ve been meaning to try. Bring your family downtown to show them the flags and festive decorations, or meet up with friends for a shopping stroll and happy hour. Every dollar you spend downtown during this period is a vote of confidence in Dayton’s future and a direct boost to a local shop owner’s livelihood.
Dayton’s Message: Downtown is Open – Come On In!
The bottom line is clear: Downtown Dayton is open for business during the NATO 2025 Parliamentary Assembly. The narrative that downtown will be closed or that residents should stay away is misleading – in reality, all downtown businesses will be open and accessible to the general public. There may be a fenced-off conference area for official events, but outside of that, downtown life (dining, shopping, and entertainment) goes on as vibrant as ever.
This is a proud moment for Dayton – our city is on the global stage 30 years after the Dayton Peace Accords, and the world is watching. By coming downtown, you become part of the story and help showcase the best of the Gem City. As the Downtown Dayton Partnership put it, this is an “opportunity to show the world what we all love about Dayton”. And what better way to do that than by enjoying our downtown Dayton restaurants, browsing our shops, and supporting our Dayton small businesses?
So mark your calendar for late May and make plans to experience downtown during the NATO festivities. Don’t believe the hype that would keep you away – instead, believe in Dayton. Come downtown, enjoy yourself, and show your support. Downtown Dayton is open, welcoming, and ready to shine for locals and visitors alike during NATO 2025.
Let’s show the world the true spirit of Dayton: a community that comes together, supports its own, and isn’t afraid to celebrate even amidst extra security. See you downtown!