For aviation enthusiasts, air museums are like candy stores filled with history and adventure. These museums are packed with jaw-dropping exhibits, interactive displays, and the chance to get up close to the marvels of aviation. So prepare for takeoff as we explore 15 air museums that every aviation lover simply must visit!

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

One of the most famous air museums in the world, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is an absolute must-see for anyone with a passion for aviation. The museum is home to the original 1903 Wright Flyer, the lunar module from the Apollo 11 mission, and the Spirit of St. Louis. 

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

An extension of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, this center houses larger aircraft and artifacts that wouldn’t fit in the main museum. You’ll find planes like the Enola Gay and the Space Shuttle Discovery here. Its observation tower allows visitors to watch planes take off and land at nearby Dulles International Airport.

National Museum of the US Air Force

The world’s oldest military aviation museum, the National Museum of the US Air Force spans more than 19 acres and showcases over 350 aircraft and missiles. It covers every chapter of army aviation history, like that of the WWI fighters and SR-71 Blackbird. The museum is also home to several presidential aircraft.

Pima Air & Space Museum 

Set in the vast Arizona desert, the Pima Air & Space Museum has over 400 aircraft, making it one of the largest air museums in the world. This museum’s collection includes everything from WWII fighters to modern jets. Its outdoor exhibits showcase impressive aircraft, including the B-52 Stratofortress.

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum 

This museum takes aviation history to new heights—literally. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum allows visitors to explore the massive carrier deck, which holds legendary aircraft like the A-12 Blackbird, the Concorde, and the Space Shuttle Enterprise. In addition, it honors naval aviation and its critical role in history.

Museum of Flight 

With more than 175 aircraft and spacecraft, it is a dream for aviation fans. This museum’s highlights include the world’s first jetliner, the Boeing 707, and the original Boeing manufacturing “Red Barn.” There’s even an exhibit dedicated to space travel with a full-scale mock-up of the International Space Station.

EAA Aviation Museum 

Oshkosh is known for hosting the largest aviation gathering in the world, and the EAA Aviation Museum is a fitting tribute to that legacy. Its galleries are filled with exhibits on homebuilt aircraft, aerobatic planes, and more. During the famous EAA AirVenture show, the museum becomes a bustling hub of aviation activity.

Planes of Fame Air Museum

This is one of the few museums where aircraft aren’t just on display—they fly! The museum is known for its dedication to keeping historic warbirds in flying condition. Visitors can see aircraft like the P-51 Mustang and Mitsubishi Zero soar through the sky during one of the museum’s airshows. 

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum 

Housed in a former Air Force hangar, Wings Over the Rockies is packed with fascinating exhibits. With more than 50 aircraft, from WW1 fighters to civilian planes, it gives visitors a comprehensive look at aviation history. The museum also has an impressive space and rocketry exhibit, showcasing Colorado’s role in space exploration.

The Henry Ford Museum

While known for its automotive history, this museum also features an impressive aviation collection. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Wright brothers’ bicycle shop, where the first powered flight became a reality. In addition, it features early commercial planes, including the Douglas DC-3.

Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum 

Home to the legendary Spruce Goose—the largest wooden airplane ever built—the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum offers a deep dive into aviation and space history. Its space exhibits cover everything from NASA missions to lunar landers, which makes it a perfect blend of aviation and space exploration.

Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum

Air Zoo is an aviation museum with a twist—its rides let you “fly” through the clouds or feel the sensation of a spacecraft launch. The museum features over 100 aircraft, including a rare SR-71 Blackbird, but it also offers immersive experiences like 3D flight simulators and rides that give visitors the sensation of flying. 

Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor

Located on Ford Island, where the attack on Pearl Harbor took place, this museum offers a solemn and fascinating look at aviation history. You can explore hangars that still bear the scars of the attack, view restored WWII aircraft, and learn about the role of aviation in the Pacific during the battle. 

Hill Aerospace Museum

With over 70 army-related aircraft on display, the Hill Aerospace Museum is a treasure trove for those interested in the history of air power. The museum’s collection spans the early days of aviation through modern jet aircraft. Located on Hill Air Force Base, it also offers an in-depth look at Utah’s role in US Army aviation history.

Royal Gorge Regional Museum & History Center 

Though smaller, the Royal Gorge Regional Museum stands out for its focus on the region’s unique aviation history. It highlights local contributions to flight, particularly during the early 20th century. Plus, its historical aviation exhibit includes local stories and aircraft models that highlight the regional role in aviation history.