The Sunshine State has plenty of attractions to enjoy, including several infamous amusement parks, some of the country’s best beaches, and many tourist sites of varying variety. However, the military museums in Florida offer great exhibits, shows, and staff that help preserve the history of our nation’s armed forces. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, here are ten great options to explore.
1. National Naval Aviation Museum
It’s easy to make the argument that NAS Pensacola is home to one of the best military museums in Florida, considering they are the headquarters of the world-famous Blue Angels.
Visitors may even be able to catch a practice depending on the day while visiting the National Naval Aviation Museum, which is one of the most popular in the state.
Over 150 restored aircraft from the Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy can be found at the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum.
It’s an unforgettable experience filled with high-flying fun and world-class exhibits, and all set near one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches.
City: Pensacola, FL
Military Discount: You won’t need it. Admission is free.
Tip: Accessing NAS Pensacola is limited to the hours of 9:00 am until 3:00 pm using the West Gate on Blue Angel Parkway. Furthermore, you’ll need a card as the museum doesn’t accept cash.
2. Air Force Armament Museum
The next military museum in Florida making our list is relatively close to the first.
You can make it to the Air Force Armament Museum in an hour and a half to two and a half hours, depending on traffic.
The Air Force Armament Museum Foundation has a collection of more than 29 aircraft, bombs, missiles, and armaments, including artifacts connected to the MOAB.
Located on Eglin Air Force Base, there is a film explaining the history of the post and plenty of informative, engaging exhibits.
The museum continues to expand as it looks to highlight the contributions of Black warfighters, AFSOC, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, and munitions development at the Air Force Research Lab.
Furthermore, the museum is in the midst of creating a new information center and gift shop that will be designed as a replica of the base’s original World War II headquarters.
City: Eglin AFB
Military Discount: It’s free for visitors, so you won’t need a discount on admission.
Tip: Be sure to check your GPS. The Fort Walton Beach community is wonderful but there can be high amounts of traffic during peak hours. Plan accordingly.
3. Navy SEAL Museum
The Navy SEAL Museum is a preservation to one of our nation’s most notorious Special Forces.
It’s a facility offering a great experience for all visitors with attractions that are both indoor and outdoor.
You’re going to see plenty of exhibits ranging from the lifeboat Captain Phillips had to survive in to a wide array of weaponry used by SEALs, along with boats and vehicles.
The Navy SEAL Memorial honors the fallen along with the Naval Special Warfare K9 Memorial which keeps the memory of the dogs of war that have also served.
If you think if you have what it takes to be a SEAL, the museum has a replica of the obstacle course Frogmen must pass.
Visiting this military museum in Florida helps give back to families, provides respite care to those in need, promotes education in future generations, and keeps the legacy of the SEALs alive.
City: Fort Pierce, FL
Military Discount: Yes, admission for Veterans is only $13 rather than $16 for non-Veteran adults.
Tip: It’s an indoor-outdoor facility with plenty to see and do. Be aware of the weather and allot at least a few hours for an immersive experience.
4. Man in the Sea Museum
A lot of the focus for the U.S. Navy is maintaining safe conditions on the water, but sometimes, that means diving deep beneath the surface.
Our military wouldn’t be nearly as effective without the diving abilities it possesses, which is why the Man in the Sea Museum is so important.
You’ll find vintage diving equipment, Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDV), subs, U.S. Navy SEALABs, and more on display.
The exhibits make this facility one of the more unique military museums in Florida, offering guests a view of life under the sea.
City: Panama City Beach, FL
Military Discount: Veterans get a discounted admission of $6.
Tip: SEALAB I offers guided tours that enhance your trip.
5. American Victory Ship & Museum
The SS American Victory isn’t just a United States Merchant Marine ship but rather one of the most unique vessels you’ll find in the country.
When you visit, you’ll have the opportunity to tour the many features of the ship, and while doing so, you’ll be experiencing a rare treat.
This is one of only four fully operational WWII ships in the United States, earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
City: Tampa, FL
Military Discount: Yes, Veterans only pay $12 for admission and $8 when a part of a group tour.
Tip: Cigar City isn’t exactly the coolest location and you won’t find air conditioning on the ship. You’re climbing ladders and moving on an old warship. Dress accordingly.
6. Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum
Over 50 planes and thousands of artifacts are on display at one of the most extensive military aircraft museums in Florida.
You’ll experience every era of aviation throughout the exhibits with decades of aviation experts and enthusiasts continuing to add to an already impressive collection.
Enjoy aircraft in person that have not only played a major role in defending our nation but flying as a whole.
Group tours of ten or more are available but you’ll need to plan ahead and contact the museum.
City: Titusville, FL
Military Discount: There is a slight military discount of $20 per qualifying visitor for admission.
Tip: You’re going to need at least two hours for a guided tour and even if you take it on alone, be sure to allocate a decent amount of time for a fuller experience.
7. Camp Blanding Museum
The history of Camp Blanding is preserved today, thanks to the museum being founded in 1990; however, it wasn’t always this way.
The U.S. Army and Florida National Guard used the installation as a major training site during World War II but after the conflict, the military no longer needed the base.
Instead, the land was deeded to other interests but now the efforts of those who served at the base are remembered.
At the Camp Blanding Museum, you’ll find plenty of artifacts and exhibits involving WWII but also showcasing military history from later conflict into modern times.
This includes the site’s Memorial Park, which has plenty of monuments and larger artifacts maintaining the legacy of those who went to Camp Blanding for training.
City: Starke, FL
Military Discount: No need for a discount as the museum is free, though donations are always appreciated.
Tip: If you’d like a tour, be sure to call ahead and make an appointment as they are only offered before or after normal hours.
8. Wings Over Miami Air Museum
Wings Over Miami is one of the more unique military aircraft museums in Florida, offering guests a look at the history of flight and the evolution of aviation as a whole.
You’ll learn more about the pilots who took these aircraft to new heights, along with the chance to enjoy a variety of aircraft throughout the hangar.
This is a particularly great facility for enthusiasts who love classic warbirds, as there are plenty to see.
Keep an eye out and plan accordingly as the museum is also known for having car shows and other events for an even richer experience.
City: Miami, FL
Military Discount: Admission is inexpensive but there is no military discount. However, if you wish to become a member, Veterans enjoy a discounted yearly rate.
Tip: This is one of the smaller military museums in Florida on our list; however, you’ll find plenty to do, see, eat, and enjoy throughout the area.
9. Military Museum of North Florida
At the Military Museum of North Florida, visitors aren’t just invited to view exhibits but to take part in them first-hand.
Known for its many interactive exhibits, there are a variety of military vehicles to explore and you can even get up close and personal with a real fighter jet cockpit.
Guided group tours are also available, to help bring everything to life from a staff dedicated to preserving the 230 years of history on display throughout the grounds.
But one of the coolest features of the Military Museum of North Florida is that the exhibits on display have ties to Green Cove Springs itself along with other local communities.
If it involves the U.S. military between the Revolutionary War to Operation Iraqi Freedom, you’ll find plenty of things to explore on your visit.
City: Green Cove Springs, FL
Military Discount: Admission is free, though donations are accepted.
Tip: There’s a lot to cover and you’ll need at least two or three hours to get through it all.
10. Camp Gordon Johnston
Amphibious training became crucial to mission success during World War II and in Carrabelle, Florida, Camp Gordon Johnston took on the task of training troops for years to prepare them for battle.
Today, the Camp Gordon Johnston Museum preserves this history with some of the most unique exhibits and artifacts history buffs will find.
250,000 men trained at Camp Gordon Johnston and their stories, as well as those who helped the war effort elsewhere, are well preserved.
The grounds have been honored on numerous occasions by Smithsonian Magazine for their tremendous effort in preserving this important part of history.
City: Carrabelle, FL
Military Discount: Don’t worry about a discount. This is yet another military museum in Florida providing free admission.
Tip: If you need assistance with mobility, contact the museum at (850) 697-8575 ahead of time.
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