National Air Force Museum: 10 Best Things to See (By A Travel Expert)
Are you an aviation enthusiast? Short on time but want to get the most out of your visit to the National Air Force Museum? Then we can help by suggesting the 10 Best Things to See at the National Air Force Museum.
Visiting the National Air Force Museum is an awe-inspiring experience for those passionate about aviation, history buffs and anyone curious about the amazing world of flight. My dad served in the U.S. Air Force during the mid-1950’s. Several years ago, while in Dayton, he visited the museum for a couple of hours.
On his bucket list, he wanted to return to the museum to visit all the galleries to take in everything that was displayed. So, we planned a trip to the Dayton area, allowing 2 days for our visit.
This is the largest and oldest military aviation museum in the world with 4 buildings covering over 19 acres of indoor exhibit space. There are more than 350 aerospace vehicles on display with more to come.
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Best Things to See at the National Air Force Museum
We arrived at the museum at 9am on a Sunday. There is a handicap parking lot close to the entrance. At the entrance, there is a security check. The museum is free, and donations are welcome. Souvenir Aircraft Locator Maps are available with a donation.
You can also get your photo taken with a variety of aircraft in the background. We were very happy with the photos – great memories of our visit.
Wheelchairs and electric scooters are free and are available on a first come, first serve basis. Make sure to get a daily schedule which lists the Free Guided Tour times for each building as well as other activities. The Air Force Museum Theatre’s Movie Schedule is listed on the back. There is a cost for the movies.
We highly recommend taking the Free Guided Tour in each building. The tours last about 90 minutes and are extremely informative.
Each building showcases a Gallery:
- Building 1 – Early Years Gallery and World War II Gallery
- Building 2 – Korean War Gallery and Southeast Asia War Gallery
- Building 3 – Cold War Gallery
- Building 4 – Missile Gallery, Global Reach Gallery, Presidential Gallery, Space Gallery and Research and Development Gallery
There is so much to see in each building, and it is hard to narrow down the best sites. While there are numerous notable aircraft on display, here are some of the top aircraft you should see when visiting the museum.
1. Wright 1909 Military Flyer – Early Years Gallery, Building 1
This aircraft represents the early days of flight and is a reproduction of the Wright brothers’ military aircraft, which was used for the first military aviation trials.
2. Boeing B-29 Superfortress “Bockscar” – World War II Gallery – Building 1
Bockscar is famous for being the aircraft that dropped the atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan, during World War II.
3. North American P-51D Mustang – World War II Gallery – Building 1
The P-51 Mustang is one of the most iconic fighter planes of World War II and played a crucial role in achieving air superiority.
4. Lockheed SR-71A Blackbird – Cold War Gallery – Building 3
The Blackbird is a legendary reconnaissance aircraft that held several speed and altitude records. It is known for its sleek design and remarkable performance.
5. Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress (Memphis Belle) – World War II Gallery – Building 1
The B-17 is a heavy bomber that was extensively used during World War II. The Memphis Belle gained considerable recognition for being one of the first U.S. Army Air Force bombers to complete 25 combat missions over Europe.
6. North American X-15A-2 – Space Gallery – Building 4
The X-15 is a manned rocket-powered aircraft that set several speed and altitude records in the 1960s. It was a precursor to the space shuttle program.
7. Boeing VC-137C Air Force One (SAM 26000) – Presidential Gallery – Building 4
This aircraft served as the primary presidential transport from 1962 to 1972. It carried Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and other dignitaries. SAM 26000 was also the aircraft in which Johnson was sworn in on as President and it transported the body of President Kennedy following his assassination in 1963.
8. Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit – Cold War Gallery – Building 3
The B-2 Spirit is a stealth bomber known for its unique flying-wing design. It can deliver conventional and nuclear payloads.
9. Bell X-1B – Research and Development Gallery – Building 4
The X-1 was the first aircraft to break the sound barrier in level flight, piloted by Chuck Yeager in 1947. It marked a significant milestone in aviation history.
10. Sikorsky HH-3E Jolly Green Giant – Southeast Asia War Gallery – Building 2
The Jolly Green Giant is a large helicopter used for combat search and rescue missions during the Vietnam War. It saved numerous lives.
These are just a few of the remarkable aircraft on display at the National Museum of United States Air Force. There are also exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays in each Gallery, providing a comprehensive look into the history of the U.S. Air Force.
Where to Stay Near the National Air Force Museum
There are several hotel options near the National Air Force Museum. We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Beavercreek which is about 5 miles from the museum.
Where to Eat Near the National Air Force Museum
There are many restaurant options near the museum. Here are a couple that we visited during our stay.
- Black Rock Bar & Grill Beavercreek – They have priority seating instead of reservations. A good place for steaks and American fare.
- The Pub Beavercreek – British pub food and a selection of beers.
Things to See at the National Air Force Museum: FAQs
How much does it cost to go to the National Air Force Museum?
It is free to visit the museum. Donations are welcomed. The wheelchairs and electric scooters are free too!
How long does it take to go through the National Air Force Museum?
To see everything in the museum, plan for at least 2 days. If you have limited time, make sure to visit the aircraft on the 10 Best Things to See list. The museum is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week.
What airport do you fly into to visit the National Air Force Museum?
Depending on where you are located, we opted to fly into the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky airport (CVG) in Hebron, Kentucky which is 70 miles south of the Museum. If you need a car rental, we recommend using Discovercars.com to find the best deal.
Are the planes in the National Air Force Museum real?
Yes, they are. Most are retired or experimental aircraft from the Air Force.
Final Thoughts: Best Things to See at the National Air Force Museum
We spent 2 days visiting the museum and still did not have enough time to see everything. The museum’s expansive collection, exhibits, and programs offer a unique opportunity to explore the world of aviation and pay tribute to the men and women who served and shaped its history.
Whether you are an aviation aficionado or simply curious about history and the development of flight, the National Air Force Museum delivers an unforgettable experience that combines education, inspiration, and a profound sense of patriotism.
After our 2-day visit, we headed south to see the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter in Kentucky. To learn more, click on Ark Encounter and Creation Museum: 15 Best Tips to Plan a Visit.
If you would like assistance in planning your trip to Ohio or Kentucky, refer to our Travel Planning services for further information or send us an email.
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