7 ways Dayton is connected to ‘Game of Thrones’

This photo released by HBO shows Kit Harington as Jon Snow, left, and Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen in a scene from "Game of Thrones," which premiered its eighth season on Sunday.

This photo released by HBO shows Kit Harington as Jon Snow, left, and Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen in a scene from "Game of Thrones," which premiered its eighth season on Sunday.

Well that certainly felt like forever, didn't it?

We’re finally in the “long night” and the battle of Winterfell is upon us.

>> How to throw an epic ‘Game of Thrones’ watch party this season

During this longer-than-usual hiatus before the finale season aired, we grew weary and longed for Game Of Thrones SO much that practically everything around town reminded us of the fantasy land of Westeros.

>>SPOTTED: Game of Thrones star poses in University of Dayton shirt in photoshoot

Here are 7 ways that Dayton is connected to the best-selling book and hit TV show Game of Thrones.

🚨 CAUTION: This post may contain spoilers. 🚨

1. Leo the Lion

Updates are planned for the European, Asian and American galleries at the Dayton Art Institute if the state provides $1 million in proposed state capital funding for the art institute. LYNN HULSEY/STAFF

Credit: Lynn Hulsey

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Credit: Lynn Hulsey

Just look at him.

For starters, Leo lives on the property of one of the bougiest places, The Dayton Art Institute. From his perch, he basically lords over the entire city.

>> RELATED: Why we can’t wait for DAI’s Oktoberfest

He’s pretty much the biggest Lannister sympathizer ever. Who knows -- if you lean in close enough, he might even tell you “The Lannisters send their regards.”

2. The Dayton Dragons 

Image Source: Dayton Dragons

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How many Midwest cities can say they have DRAGONS?! 🐉

>> RELATED: Dragons a long-running hit in Dayton

The Targaryens may be known for their dragons, but Daenerys only has 2. Sure, hers are gnarly and breathe fire and whatnot, but that’s beyond the point.

Dayton has Heater (who was a Daytonian of the Week, we might add), Gem and a whole team of Dragons! So who's really winning here?

3. River Run

Credit: DaytonDailyNews

AKA the rightful seat of House Tully. River Run was a pretty hot commodity a few seasons back, in Game of Thrones, AND in real life.

>> GUIDE: How to make the most of River Run

After a long wait, our River Run officially opened to the public in the spring of 2017.

4. Three-eyed Raven

He might not have 3 eyes, but Dayton has a majestic eagle that watches over the city.

He’s chiseled into the top corners of the AT&T building on 2nd Street and Wilkinson Street.

5. Serpent Mound

Serpent Mound's coiled tail has alignment with the summer solstice sunset.   Serpent Mound is the largest surviving ancient effigy mound in the world and is on the National Register of Historic Places.  It is located near Peebles, Ohio on State Route 73.    TY GREENLEES / STAFF

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If the last sand snakes ended up somehow surviving Cersei’s dungeon, perhaps they’d decide to pick up and move to greener pastures. If that was the case, they’d most definitely live here. But we’re not going to hold our breath on that one.

>> See for yourself why Ohio's mysterious Serpent Mound is a must-visit place

6. The Wall

The River Run Mural spans 950 feet next to the Great Miami River across from RiverScape Metro Park. Designed by artist Amy Deal it was painted on the flood wall by artists from K12 Gallery. LISA POWELL / STAFF

Credit: Lisa Powell

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Credit: Lisa Powell

Dayton has its very own wall too! The wall in Game of Thrones may be all frozen and enchanted, but ours was painted by a relative to rockstars -- local artist Amy Deal! Oh and it's still standing.

7. A Pirate Ship

West Carrollton Pirates' ship at West Carrollton High School football field on Friday, Oct. 24.

Credit: Teesha McClam

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Credit: Teesha McClam

Ser Davos Seaworth (aka The Onion Knight) and Salladhor Saan would be proud. There's an actual PIRATE ship at the football stadium at West Carrollton High School.

You can actually see it when you’re driving by on I-75, and as far as we know, it hasn’t been overtaken by Euron Greyjoy’s fleet, so that’s a plus.

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