HIGH-FLYING HISTORY: EXPLORE THESE TOP 6 AVIATION MUSEUMS ACROSS AMERICA
U.S. aviation museums offer a breath-taking, memorable experience for all, as they present visitors the opportunity to take a high-flying journey through the clouds to experience the history of military aviation. Additionally, you’ll get to learn more about the people behind the planes that took to the skies and made history. Ensuring that the accomplishments of warfighters are never lost, military aviation museums host an extensive collection of helicopters, warplanes, and exhibits highlighting the evolution of military aerial warfare. So, if you're looking for a fun and memorable way to spend the day, you’ll want to check out these 6 military aviation museums.
1. National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is located on Wright-Patterson AFB. Many consider it to be the world’s largest military aviation museum. To make that call, you’ll have to visit it for yourself. You surely won’t be disappointed. The museum is home to over 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles. Additionally, you’ll find thousands of artifacts related to the history of the Air Force.Some noteworthy galleries that you'll want to explore include: the Early Years Gallery, the World War II gallery, the Missile Gallery, and Memorial Park that honors iconic aviators.Location: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OhioHours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PMTicket Prices: Free
2. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum takes visitors on a journey exploring the early days of flight. Additionally, be sure to check out historic artifacts and planes from the 1900s and the Space Age. You’ll also find galleries that highlight the marvels of human innovation in regards to aviation, and the times that they came up with out of this world ideas. Location: Washington, D.C. and Chantilly, VirginiaHours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PMTicket Prices: Free
3. Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is home to a truly impressive collection of aircraft. In fact, the museum is home to the Hughes H-4 Hercules “Spruce Goose,” aka the world’s largest wooden airplane. Other iconic exhibits include those dedicated to the SR-71 Blackbird and the F-117 Nighthawk. In addition to these iconic military aviation galleries, be sure to check out their space exploration galleries to witness how military aviation and spacecraft overlap. Location: McMinnville, OregonHours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PMTicket Prices:Adults: $30Seniors (65+): $27Youths (5-16): $25Children under 4: Free
4. Pima Air & Space Museum
The Pima Air & Space Museum is home to over 400 historic aircraft, and is one of the largest aviation museums in the world.The museum opened in 1976, and is now home to six indoor exhibit hangers, with three being dedicated to WWII. Their collection highlights military jets, commercial planes, and iconic military aircraft. Be sure to check out the “390th Memorial Museum” and the “Space Gallery,” which is home to rare artifacts during the space race era.Location: Tucson, Arizona Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PMTicket Prices:Adult: $18.50Senior (65+)Military: $15.50Youth (5-12): $10.00Children under 5: Free
5. San Diego Air & Space Museum
The San Diego Air & Space Museum is truly an aviation enthusiast’s paradise. The museum offers visitors a peek into San Diego military aviation history.Additionally, you can expect to enjoy interactive displays, rotating exhibits, and WWII flight simulators.Location: San Diego, CaliforniaHours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PMTicket Prices: Adult: $19.50Senior (65+), Military, Student: $16.50Youth (3-11): $10.50Children under 3: Free
6. National Naval Aviation Museum
Last up on the list is the National Naval Aviation Museum. But don’t let its placement fool you. This museum is one of the most visited in Florida. It has a collection of 150 restored aircraft representing the Navy, Marine Corps, and the Coast Guard.You’ll also find exhibits dedicated to naval battles, and the development of aviation technologies for the Navy. While there, be sure to check out the Blue Angels Atrium. The Korean War exhibit is one you won’t want to miss as it features a replica of a F4U-4. Location: Naval Air Station Pensacola, FloridaHours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PMTicket Prices: Free admission
Take to the Skies and Spend Some Time Exploring Aviation History
Military aviation plays a significant role in the United States military. Therefore, military aviation museums strive to preserve the accomplishments of the brave military pilots that served their country. Not only do these museums preserves their legacy, but they also provide a unique educational experience for visitors.Whether you're a military aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or are simply looking for a fun family activity, we promise that these museums will leave you with a lasting memorable experience.So, plan your visit to explore the fascinating world of military aviation by finding some aviation museums near you.Suggested reads: