California Aviation Museums

The Aviation Museum of Santa Paula celebrates aviation history with vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and a living airport environment. Located at Santa Paula Airport, this unique museum lets visitors experience classic planes up close while learning about aviation pioneers and the vibrant local flying community.

Castle Air Museum in Atwater, California, showcases over 70 historic military aircraft, including iconic bombers and Cold War jets. Explore aviation history up close, from the B-17 Flying Fortress to the SR-71 Blackbird, and enjoy interactive exhibits, Presidential aircraft tours, and rare aviation artifacts for an unforgettable experience.

The Chico Air Museum is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts. Located in California, this museum showcases aircraft from all over the world, from military planes to record-breaking propellers and jets. You can experience different eras in aviation history by browsing the impressive collection of vintage and modern aircraft on display. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the science and artistry of flight, and they are always willing to answer questions or share stories about the planes' histories. They also offer educational tours where visitors can learn more about the impact of aviation throughout history. If you're looking for a unique, interactive experience, the Chico Air Museum is an ideal destination!

The Lyon Air Museum in Santa Ana, California is a world-renowned museum that houses an impressive collection of over 100 vintage aircraft and vehicles. The museum was founded in 1985 by Major General William Lyon, a retired United States Air Force officer. The Lyon Air Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of aviation and educating the public about the science and technology of flight. The museum's collection includes aircraft from the Wright brothers to the Space Shuttle, and everything in between. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits that are perfect for families and children of all ages. If you're interested in learning about the history of aviation, or if you're just looking for a fun day out, the Lyon Air Museum is definitely worth a visit.

The Oakland Aviation Museum offers a unique and immersive experience for travelers of all ages. From the stimulating collection of historical aircrafts to vibrant educational exhibits, visitors will be enthralled with their tour through aviation history. Before visiting, be sure to check out their schedule of open cockpit days. On open cockpit days, visitors get the unique experience of climbing inside these amazing aircraft; an experience not often granted in most aviation museums. 

The Pacific Coast Air Museum in Santa Rosa features 35+ historic aircraft, including an F-15 Eagle that responded on 9/11. Explore interactive exhibits, climb aboard select planes, and experience aviation history up close at this California gem!

Located in the heart of Palm Springs, California, the Palm Springs Air Museum is a must-visit for all aviation enthusiasts. The museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft and artifacts that showcase the rich history of aviation.

At the Palm Springs Air Museum, you have the unique opportunity to not just observe history, but to live it. Their Warbird rides put you in the seat of some of the most celebrated aircraft in history. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you take to the skies in our C-47 Skytrain or the P-51 Mustang. Every rumble of the engine, every moment of flight, immerses you in the unfiltered experience of our aviation past, offering an unparalleled perspective on the bravery and skill of the pilots who once helmed these incredible machines. Please note, these experiences are subject to weather conditions and availability, so we recommend booking in advance to ensure your spot.

The Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino showcases over 160 historic aircraft, including the legendary P-51 Mustang and Japanese Zero. Experience engaging exhibits, watch live flight demonstrations, and connect with aviation history at this iconic California destination!

The USS Midway Museum in San Diego offers an unforgettable journey into the history of naval aviation. Once the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, the USS Midway now stands as a floating tribute to the evolution of aviation and the men and women who served aboard her.

With over 30 restored aircraft on display, the museum provides a comprehensive look at naval aviation history. From World War II-era planes like the SBD Dauntless to modern jets like the F/A-18 Hornet, the aircraft showcase decades of technological advancements. These planes are displayed on the flight deck and hangar deck, giving visitors a real sense of the Midway’s role in air operations.

The museum experience goes beyond static displays. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the challenges of naval aviation, from flight simulators replicating carrier landings to hands-on activities in the Ready Rooms and Combat Information Center. Veteran docents, many with firsthand experience, bring the ship's history to life with personal stories and insights.

Visitors can also explore the ship's operational areas, including the flight deck, hangar deck, and crew quarters. These spaces illustrate the teamwork and precision required to maintain the ship and its aircraft.

From its pivotal role in conflicts like the Vietnam War to its current mission of education, the USS Midway Museum is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It’s more than a museum—it’s a living testament to naval aviation’s legacy.

The Vietnam Helicopters Museum in Concord, California is the perfect destination for travelers interested in aviation history. With a variety of military aircraft on display, including UH-1 Huey helicopters used during the Vietnam War, this museum offers more than just a visual experience. Visitors can learn about the brave pilots who operated these historic aircraft and their experiences during the war.

In addition to its impressive collection of Vietnam War–era helicopters, the museum also showcases an array of memorabilia from the era, such as wartime photographs and original uniforms. Plus, you can get up close and personal with some of the aircraft and artifacts on display.

This unique museum is located in one of California’s most stunning areas — Concord. This vibrant city offers plenty of activities while you’re visiting, from outdoor recreation at nearby Mt Diablo State Park to live music shows downtown. While you explore Concord's rich culture and heritage frontiers, be sure to stop by this incredible helicopter museum for an educational experience about America's involvement in one of its most important conflicts.