Indoor cold weather entertainment in Dayton, Ohio

There's no mistaking it. This weekend's weather is going to suck. The meteorological soothsayers are calling for cold and rainy conditions...and there's even a possibility of the "S" word: snow. So, aside from getting loaded and arguing about politics on Facebook, here are a few indoor activities to help you forget how freaking cold it's about to get.

GO BOWLING OR GET SOME GUNS AND SHOOT SOMETHING

We're talking about toy guns -- lasers to be exact. Poelking Lanes at 3200 Woodman Drive in Kettering will be happy to rent you the shoes worn by 15,000 other pairs of feet for bowling. But they also have their newest attraction in the form of laser tag. Opened in August, this nearly 4,600-square foot arena is among the biggest in the region, with different types of games that run between 15 and 20 minutes. It's also a great way to burn off some calories before you carb up on Thursday.

COST: $3-8.50

Explore

GO TO AN INDOOR ZOO

Yes, Dayton has one. We've had it for years, actually. It's the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and it's wonderful. There's also

hands-on science experiments and activities, pretend play exhibitions, a tree house perfect for budding nature enthusiasts, a play area for toddlers, an interactive music wall, space theater and much more.

COST: $10 for children (3-16), $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and children under 3 are free. Members are also free.

SEE A CLASSIC COMEDY IN A CLASSIC SETTING

The historic Plaza Theatre in Miamisburg is showing the John Hughes Thanksgiving classic, Planes, Trains and Automobiles throughout the weekend. Steve Martin costars as ad executive Neal Page trying desperately to get home to his family in time for the holiday meal. He runs into a likable traveling salesman Del Griffith, played by the late John Candy, who hinders his efforts at every turn. This comedic pairing proves a stroke of casting genius that never ceases to make you smile.

COST: $5

SEE NATURE IN A NEW WAY

The Dayton Art Institute is currently exhibiting Ravaged Sublime: Landscape Photography in the 21st Century, which features the work of photographers who present innovative looks at nature. Best of all, you don't have to be out in the cold while experiencing all this cool nature stuff.

COST: $14/adults, $11/seniors (60+), $11/students (18+ with ID), $11/active military, $11/person in group (10 or more), $6/youth (ages 7-17), free for children 6 and under

ENLIST IN THE AIR FORCE

One of the best things about Dayton is the fact you can always count on the United States Air Force Museum for a full day of cheap indoor fun. Whether you're entertaining out-of-towners, or just need to bone up on your aviation history, this is a perfect way to pass the time. A lot has changed since the museum opened its new extension this past summer.

COST: FREE (donations accepted)

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About the Author

Jim Ingram