Although the physical infrastructure of the Hamvention is deplorable, Dayton has something much more valuable. That is the human infrastructure. How they have been able to hold the organization together for over half a century is a wonderful mystery. How many radio clubs have we heard of that thrived for a while and then fell apart due to internal strife? I'm sure that the DARA has had its internal disagreements over the years, but nonetheless they have managed to hold things together and keep the hamfest running.
While pundits occasionally suggest that the event be moved away from Dayton to some venue with better transportation connections, a better venue, more lodging and restaurants, the fact is that this would require the uprooting of the human infrastructure... and that just isn't going to happen. If any group believes that they have a better location, better facilities, and maybe even a better idea, I suppose they are welcome to give it a try. It's easy to stand on the outside of an existing event and second guess the operations. It takes a lot of work to start from an idea and build the momentum and reputation of a notable hamfest.
I attended Hamvention about a decade ago, and had a great time, but I probably won't return just because of the crummy facilities. However, having been a founding partner in New England's largest hamfest for 34 years and having some idea of what it takes to put things together, I have nothing but admiration for the fellows who keep Dayton running.