USAF Air Museum Review
One of the most incredible places to see historic aircraft from all eras. But be ready to spend the entire day there
It’s no secret that I love WWII history and historic aircraft, sometimes to the point of obsession. My recent visits to the Pima Air and Space Museum and March Field Air Museum are proof of that! So when we had the chance to visit the USAF Air Museum in April, I just had to jump all over it.
USAF Air Museum. What you should know.
The National Museum of the United States Air Force graces the property of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio. It’s one of the largest aircraft museums I’ve ever set foot in, with fantastic displays inside and out.
Walking up to the humongous buildings, you will notice some aircraft in addition to beautiful grounds honoring the sacrifices of those who served. There’s a small trail of memorials and displays to reflect upon if you have the time. But because of my excitement, I admit I glazed over this in favor of the incredible collection inside.
The priceless displays are overwhelming.
The USAF Air Museum provides SO MUCH history that it’s a bit overwhelming to take in. This certainly isn’t a bad thing by any means. It was just that I wasn’t prepared for what was ahead.
There are more than 360 aircraft and missiles displayed at the National USAF Air Museum.
Because Donetta and I had recently attended WWII Veteran Jim Martin’s 100th birthday bash for several days, we were exhausted. This forced us to move more quickly through the museum—and that was a mistake! If you genuinely want to savor all the offerings, I recommend planning a full day or two to take it all in. We didn’t make it through the entire place, so we will have to go back.
Remember to wear good, comfortable shoes!
The WWII aircraft were amazing to see and experience.
There is no possible way to include all the photos and memories in my USAF Air Museum review. Nor could my words do any justice to the brilliant displays of history you will encounter. The staff, volunteers, and donors should all be commended for what they’ve completed within this space.
If you are interested in WWII aircraft, you will not be disappointed.
My favorite displays were the famous Memphis Belle (B-17 Fortress), Bockscar (B-29 Superfortress), P-38L Lightning, Messerschmitt BF-109, Messerschmitt Me 163B, Messerschmitt Me 262A, Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-9, Mitsubishi A62M Zero, Yokosuka MXY7-K1 Ohka Trainer, and Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vc. Some of these aircraft are rare to see, and doing so is always a treat.
It doesn’t end there, as there are plenty of other well-known WWII fighters, bombers, and transports available.
Korean War to modern day as well.
For those who love Air Force jets or space rockets, don’t worry. The USAF Air Museum delights you with an array of aircraft and displays, including a North American F-86A Sabre, Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15, Lockheed SR-71A, Boeing WB-50D Superfortress, Thunderbirds F-16A Fighting Falcon, and the A-10A Thunderbolt II.
To infinity and beyond.
The USAF Air Museum also has a complete hangar for space lovers and wannabe explorers. It includes the Apollo 15 Command Module, Mercury spacecraft, and the Space Shuttle Exhibit. This section contains exhibits with space suits to satellites.
Exhibits and other displays galore.
Due to limited time and energy, we didn’t linger long on anything other than the WWII displays, but the museum has thousands of pieces of memorabilia to peruse. There are engines, weapons, rockets, service flags and pins, and even the well-known Air Force Orange County Chopper. It’s pretty endless.
Should You Visit the National USAF Museum?
A resounding YES!!! You will be hard-pressed to find anything like this, and whether you love aircraft or not, this is a place you will want to see if you’re in Dayton, Ohio.
I wish we had more time there, but I’m so thankful for the time we did have at the USAF Air Museum. You can learn more by visiting their website.