National Museum of the United States Air Force Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com


From a replica of the Wright brothers’ original plane to high-tech stealth bombers, there are hundreds of unique aircraft to explore at this museum in Dayton, Ohio.

At the National Museum of the United States Air Force, see hundreds of rare and one-of-a-kind aircraft and missiles. Learn about the history of flight, along with people and machines that protect the United States from threats in the skies. The museum is located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, one of the United States’ largest working bases.

Visit the Presidential Gallery to walk among planes that transported presidents including Franklin Roosevelt, Truman and Nixon. The centerpiece of the collection is SAM 26000, which served as Air Force One for Lyndon Johnson’s s swearing in after President Kennedy’s assassination. This hangar is accessible only via the complimentary shuttle bus.

Learn about aviation military history in a series of chronological galleries. See a “Little Boy” bomb similar to that dropped by the B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay during World War II. Marvel at the only surviving XB-70 Valkyrie, a strategic 1960s bomber. See where air travel began, with a replica of the Wright brothers’ 1909 Military Flyer. Aircraft are interspersed with period uniforms, flight artifacts and weaponry.

Enjoy the challenge of a flight simulator ride. Pursue your mission as you battle enemy aircraft. Afterward, sit back and watch a riveting documentary in the 3-D IMAX theater.

Complete your visit with a free guided tour. Walk through aviation history on a Heritage Tour or see restoration processes in a Behind the Scenes Tour. In the second-floor Museum Shop, get a replica uniform or a flight souvenir. The adjacent Valkyrie Café offers refreshments.

The museum is open daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission to the museum is free but you’ll need to buy a ticket for the flight simulator and IMAX theater. Free parking is available on site. Be prepared for special security procedures for entrance.

Downtown Dayton is a short drive away from the museum. As one of Ohio’s largest cities, Dayton has a lively cultural scene and offers many options for dining and accommodations.

Befitting an institution dedicated to flight, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is just a few minutes’ drive from Huffman Prairie, where the Wright brothers famously tested the world’s first airplanes.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near National Museum of the United States Air Force

Comfort Suites Dayton-Wright Patterson

Comfort Suites Dayton-Wright Patterson

2.5 out of 5
5220 Huberville Ave, Dayton, OH
Comfort Suites Dayton-Wright Patterson
Dayton Air Force Museum Getaway! Close to WPAFB, Downtown, Wright State

Dayton Air Force Museum Getaway! Close to WPAFB, Downtown, Wright State

Dayton
Dayton Air Force Museum Getaway! Close to WPAFB, Downtown, Wright State
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Fairborn South, OH

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Fairborn South, OH

2.5 out of 5
3971 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Dayton, OH
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Fairborn South, OH
Tru by Hilton Beavercreek Dayton

Tru by Hilton Beavercreek Dayton

2.5 out of 5
3813 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Fairborn, OH
Tru by Hilton Beavercreek Dayton
Home away from home. Minutes away from everything.

Home away from home. Minutes away from everything.

Dayton
Home away from home. Minutes away from everything.
Birch Hill Suites Dayton - WP AFB

Birch Hill Suites Dayton - WP AFB

2 out of 5
3845 Germany Ln, Fairborn, OH
Birch Hill Suites Dayton - WP AFB
Pet-Friendly Dayton Home w/ Grill, Walk to Park!

Pet-Friendly Dayton Home w/ Grill, Walk to Park!

Dayton
Pet-Friendly Dayton Home w/ Grill, Walk to Park!
Wingate by Wyndham Dayton - Fairborn

Wingate by Wyndham Dayton - Fairborn

2.5 out of 5
3055 Presidential Dr, Fairborn, OH
Wingate by Wyndham Dayton - Fairborn
Remodeled-Pet friendly-5 min to WPAFB and Downtown

Remodeled-Pet friendly-5 min to WPAFB and Downtown

Dayton
Remodeled-Pet friendly-5 min to WPAFB and Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near National Museum of the United States Air Force

At the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Riverside, Ohio, visitors can enjoy memorable adventures and captivating photo tours. Nearby, the vibrant scene comes alive with live music, theatrical performances, and exciting festivals, making it a fantastic destination for both history enthusiasts and those seeking entertainment. Don't miss the chance to explore the rich aviation history while engaging in the lively activities surrounding the museum.

Shopping

While visiting the National Museum of the United States Air Force, you can shop at the Mall at Fairfield Commons, only 4.8km away, featuring a variety of stores. The 2nd Street Market, 6.4km away, offers local goods, and Puzzles Plus, 8.0km away, has unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, you can explore more shopping options beyond these distances.

Recreation

At the Rose Music Center at The Heights, enjoy live concerts that elevate your spirits. Nearby, Day Air Ballpark offers thrilling sports experiences, while Kettering Field invites you to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature, providing a perfect blend of wellness and recreation close to the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

Adventure

At Kenworthy Motocross Park, 18.0km from the museum, feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate thrilling motocross tracks. Experience the thrill of free-fall with Start Skydiving, located 24.8km away. For a scenic adventure, enjoy breathtaking views with Bella Balloons Hot Air Balloon Co, 26.4km from the museum.

Nightlife

Experience the thrill at Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, only 6.4km away, where romance and excitement await in a lively casino setting. For a cultural evening, catch a show at the Victoria Theater or Dayton Playhouse, both located 8.0km away, offering family-friendly entertainment and a romantic atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near National Museum of the United States Air Force

While visiting the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Riverside, Ohio, explore nearby attractions such as urban parks and historic universities that offer family-friendly outdoor and cultural experiences. Don't miss the chance to visit the renowned Air Force Museum and other nearby aviation sites, including the Royal Air Force Museum, to enrich your understanding of aviation history and make your trip memorable.

  • University of Dayton: Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this historic university. With beautiful architecture and engaging campus life, it offers a unique glimpse into collegiate spirit and community.
  • Wright State University: Experience the modernity of this urban campus, just a short drive away. With its cutting-edge facilities and diverse student body, it embodies the dynamic energy of city life and innovation.
  • Dayton Convention Center: This bustling event venue is perfect for experiencing local events and conferences. Its business-oriented atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for networking and discovering regional culture.

Best time to go to National Museum of the United States Air Force

The best time to visit National Museum of the United States Air Force can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around National Museum of the United States Air Force falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around National Museum of the United States Air Force falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February31.3°F (-0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
June70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July73.8°F (23.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December34.9°F (1.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Museum of the United States Air Force

For an affordable visit to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, consider exploring nearby free attractions like the Mall at Fairfield Commons and RiverScape MetroPark. Travel during the off-peak months of December to February for lower accommodation rates, especially on Mondays. Utilize Expedia to compare hotel deals, select eco-certified options, and bundle your stay with flights for better savings. Sorting search results by price can also reveal the best offers available, ensuring you enjoy a budget-friendly experience while discovering this historical site.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Museum of the United States Air Force are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around National Museum of the United States Air Force is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around National Museum of the United States Air Force is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel reservation for the National Museum of the United States Air Force with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.