The Expat Eley's

Written by: Victoria

Zach’s Hometown, My Heartstring Destination

Nestled just south of Dayton is a little town you’ve probably never heard of—unless you’re from here or fell in love with someone who is. Miamisburg, Ohio, is where my husband Zach grew up, and it’s also where a million little firsts happened for us. Technically, Zach and I met at Wright State University, and a lot of our “firsts” happened in Fairborn—an awkward first-date handhold, late-night study sessions, and the kind of coffee-fueled deep talks that college kids mistake for therapy.

But Miamisburg? Miamisburg is where we chose each other. It’s where we moved in together during year two. It’s where we played house until it started feeling like a home. We moved away for a while—to my hometown actually—but always ended up back in the ‘burg. And before we head off on our next adventure abroad, we want a couple last slow days in the town that quietly became ours.

If you ever find yourself in southwest Ohio, here’s how to do Miamisburg the way we do: with full hearts, delicious food, and zero rush.

Morning: Coffee & Comfort Zones

Where to go: Bear Creek Donuts and Curious Styles Coffee Shop

Start your morning with a sugar rush. Bear Creek Donuts has the best maple bacon donut I’ve ever had. Bonus? They’re budget-friendly and we end up walking out the door spending no more than $6 (for a family of three).

After that, walk down the street to Curious Styles Coffee Shop—a cozy, eclectic café tucked inside a boutique. The espresso is strong, the vibe is artsy, and there’s always something new to look at (and want to buy).

Little life moment: I’ve spent many afternoons at Curious Styles Coffee Shop, sipping my coffee, working, and reading a good book.

Late Morning: Riverside Play + Scenic Strolls

Lunch: Burgers + Ice Cream

Where to go: Hamburger Wagon + Three Dips or Tom and Dot’s

No Miamisburg itinerary is complete without a stop at the Hamburger Wagon. It’s a literal wagon. The burgers are slider-style, crispy, pickle + oniony bites of nostalgia, and it’s been around since 1913 for a reason. Grab a sack of burgers and eat them standing up on the sidewalk like a local.

Then walk it off with a scoop (or three) from Three Dips or head over to Tom and Dot’s for classic gelato and shakes.

Little life moment: Growing up, my family would stop by the Hamburger Wagon on our way to visit my great-grandmother in Indiana (we lived in Lebanon). We called them “Miamisburgers.” I came full circle when Zach’s best friend, who runs the mobile food truck for the wagon, brought us on to work events with him. My child-dreams came true. I officially had an in at the famous wagon.

Afternoon: Wandering + A Chill Beer Break

Where to go: Downtown Boutiques, Antique Stores, + Entropy Brewing

Downtown Miamisburg is the perfect size for slow wandering. Poke around antique shops, boutique stores, and—my favorite—Star City Booksellers. Then, make your way to Entropy Brewing, where you can sit with a flight while your kiddo pays on their jungle gym (YES, really). It’s one of those “everyone’s happy” places.

Evening: Local Brews + Messy Wings

Where to go: Star City Brewing or TJ Chumps

We’ve only been to Star City Brewing once—but it was on St. Patrick’s Day, and it was so cool. It’s housed in an old flour mill, which gives you that “travel back in time” vibe that just makes sense. Read their full history here.

If you’re feeling more casual (or you want a patio, great conversation, and sports on TV), head to TJ Chumps. Wings, fries, and one last cheers before calling it a night.

Night Drive: The Full Circle Moment

End the day with a slow loop around town. Night drives are where Zach and I learned the most about each other, enjoyed each others company during those first couple years of dating, and ultimately fell in love (he literally asked me to be his girlfriend on one of these drives). Turn on some music, roll the windows down, and appreciate small-town living.

Before We Go…

Miamisburg may not be the first pin on a tourist map—but for us, it’s a memory book. A launchpad. A love letter in the form of a town. If you’re nearby, stay for the day. Try the donuts. Walk the trail. Eat the burger. Let it surprise you.