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Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum

4.8
·338 reviews·Camarillo, United States

Experience living history with a stunning collection of vintage aircraft, many in flying condition, at this Camarillo museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends (Fri, Sat, Sun)

Museum is open

CrowdMedium
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Blue Angels History

Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum

Best Time

Weekends (Fri, Sat, Sun)

Museum is open

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience living history with a stunning collection of vintage aircraft, many in flying condition, at this Camarillo museum. Reddit

4.8
(338 reviews)

"A fantastic aircraft museum with knowledgeable docents and rare vintage planes you won't see anywhere else. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Get a Guided Tour

Essential for seeing all hangars and understanding the aircraft's history. Don't miss out!

✈️ Check for Flying Demos

Catching aircraft in action or passenger rides is a highlight. Check their schedule!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Warbirds in Flight

Iconic Warbirds in Flight

Airfield

Witness legendary aircraft like the F8F-2 Bearcat perform during twilight shows with stunning exhaust flames.

Reddit
C-46 'China Doll' Tour

C-46 'China Doll' Tour

Hangar

Step aboard the C-46 'China Doll' for an immersive tour, learning its rich history and exploring the aircraft up close.

Reddit
Knowledgeable Docent Tours

Knowledgeable Docent Tours

Hangars

Gain deep insights into WW2 and Vietnam-era aviation from friendly, knowledgeable docents guiding you through the exhibits.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Hours & Access

The museum is typically open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. While the first hangar is self-guided, other hangars require a docent. Booking a tour is highly recommended to fully experience the collection and understand the history of these incredible vintage aircraft. Reddit

Don't Miss the Flying Demos!

If you're lucky, you might catch a flying exhibition or passenger rides! These events showcase the aircraft in action, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Check their website or social media for schedules. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends (Fri, Sat, Sun)
Why
Museum is open
Crowd
Medium
When
During Air Shows
Why
Aircraft in flight
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

An F8F-2 Bearcat during a twilight performance, featuring gorgeous exhaust flames

🎯 Get a Guided Tour

Essential for seeing all hangars and understanding the aircraft's history. Don't miss out! Reddit

✈️ Check for Flying Demos

Catching aircraft in action or passenger rides is a highlight. Check their schedule! Reddit

reddit.com

New B-25/PBJ-1 dorsal turret graphics look great, but I can't get the guns to work?? HOW DO I DO THAT I NEED TO KNOW ASAP!!!!

🎟️ Admission Fee

$10 per person for a full day of aviation history. Reddit

📸 Bring Your Camera

Capture stunning shots of these magnificent vintage aircraft. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Get a Guided Tour

Essential for seeing all hangars and understanding the aircraft's history. Don't miss out! Reddit

✈️ Check for Flying Demos

Catching aircraft in action or passenger rides is a highlight. Check their schedule! Reddit

🎟️ Admission Fee

$10 per person for a full day of aviation history. Reddit

📸 Bring Your Camera

Capture stunning shots of these magnificent vintage aircraft. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(338 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum for its impressive collection of well-maintained vintage aircraft and the passion of its docents. Many highlight the unique opportunity to see planes in flying condition and the thrill of air shows. Some visitors note that access to certain hangars requires a guided tour, which is highly recommended for a complete experience.

"This aircraft museum is fantastic. The exhibits are distributed through three or four hangers, and the first hanger is self guided, but all other hangers require a guide or docent to accompany you. Many of the aircraft are in flying condition and I missed the flying exhibition by one day, when more than half the aircraft on display were out on the airfield in exhibition and flight with passenger rides available for a donation."

Craig Philpott

"I went to the Camarillo Air Show and had the chance to visit the CAF SoCal Commemorative Air Force. I took a tour of the C-46 “China Doll” plane, and it was such a wonderful experience. Learning about its history and seeing it up close was truly amazing!"

Saramay Benavides

"Commemorative Air Force - CAF Wing, Camarillo is a great place for vintage aircraft enthusiasts for WW2 / Vietnam periods in aviation history. They've a terrific walk-through museum/exhibits in their hangers. Knowledgeable and friendly docents. Check em out on website and socials. Only open weekends, Fri, Sat. Sun. $10 per person."

Douglas Archer

What People Like

Impressive vintage aircraft
Knowledgeable docents
Aircraft in flying condition

What People Dislike

Hangar access requires tour

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Camarillo, California. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Check their website for specific directions and any potential road closures. Reddit

While public transportation might be limited directly to the museum, you can explore local bus routes that serve the Camarillo area. It's advisable to check with local transit authorities for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

The museum spans several hangars. While the first is self-guided, tours with docents are essential for accessing other areas. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum is typically open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current operating hours before your visit. Reddit

Admission is generally $10 per person, offering access to a wealth of aviation history. This price provides great value for the experience. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially if you want to ensure you get a spot with a docent. This also helps the museum staff plan accordingly. Reddit

Information on discounts for seniors, military, or children is not widely publicized, but it's worth inquiring directly with the museum or checking their website for any special offers. Reddit

Yes, tickets are generally available for purchase on the day of your visit at the museum's entrance. However, booking ahead for tours is advised. Reddit

🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience

You'll find a fantastic collection of vintage aircraft, particularly from the WW2 and Vietnam eras. Many are in flying condition, and some are rare finds. Reddit

Yes, passenger rides are sometimes available for a donation during special events or air shows. This is an incredible opportunity to experience flight in a warbird! Reddit

The first hangar is self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Other hangars require a docent to accompany you, providing in-depth historical context and stories. Reddit

The museum occasionally hosts air shows and flying exhibitions, which are a major draw. Keep an eye on their website and social media for announcements. Reddit

Absolutely! Children are often fascinated by the large aircraft and the stories behind them. It's an educational and exciting experience for all ages. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the hangars and around the aircraft. It's a photographer's paradise! Reddit

While generally allowed, always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid using flash photography directly on sensitive displays or when docents are speaking. Reddit

The exterior of the hangars and the airfield offer great vantage points. Inside, try to capture the details of the cockpits and engines. Reddit

Yes, flying demonstrations are a prime opportunity for dynamic photography. Just ensure you maintain a safe distance from the aircraft. Reddit

The F8F-2 Bearcat is known for its dramatic exhaust flames during twilight performances, making it a standout subject. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Children are often captivated by the sheer size and history of the vintage aircraft. The chance to see planes up close, and potentially witness them in the air during air shows, provides an exciting and educational outing. Reddit

Encourage your kids to ask questions of the docents, who are usually very engaging and happy to share stories. Consider booking a guided tour to make the experience more interactive and informative for younger minds. It's a great way to spark an interest in aviation history and engineering in a fun, hands-on environment. Reddit

✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those with a deep passion for aviation history, this museum is a must-visit. You'll find a remarkable collection of WW2 and Vietnam-era aircraft, many of which are rare and in flying condition. The opportunity to learn about their operational history from knowledgeable docents is invaluable. Reddit

Don't miss the chance to explore specific aircraft like the C-46 'China Doll' or witness the impressive performance of warbirds during air shows. The museum offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stories and technology of legendary aircraft. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Vintage Aircraft Collection

The Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum boasts an impressive array of vintage aircraft, primarily focusing on those from the World War II and Vietnam War eras. Many of these magnificent machines are not just static displays; they are meticulously maintained and kept in flying condition. This dedication to preservation allows visitors to witness history come alive, not just through exhibits but through the roar of engines and the sight of these planes taking to the sky. Reddit

Visitors can expect to see iconic warbirds, each with its own unique story and significance. The museum's collection is spread across several hangars, with the first often being self-guided. However, to truly appreciate the depth of history and the intricate details of the aircraft, engaging with the knowledgeable docents is paramount. They offer invaluable insights, personal anecdotes, and historical context that transform a simple viewing into an immersive educational experience. Reddit

For aviation enthusiasts, the chance to see aircraft like the F8F-2 Bearcat up close, and potentially witness it perform during air shows, is a major draw. The museum's commitment to keeping these planes airworthy ensures that visitors have the rare opportunity to see and even hear these historical marvels in action, making it a truly unforgettable destination. Reddit

The Thrill of Air Shows and Rides

One of the most exhilarating aspects of visiting the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum is the possibility of experiencing flying exhibitions and passenger rides. These events are not just for show; they are a testament to the dedication of the CAF members who work tirelessly to keep these vintage aircraft operational. Witnessing these planes perform in the air, with their powerful engines and historical significance, is a breathtaking spectacle. Reddit

During air shows, visitors can marvel at the agility and power of these warbirds, often seeing them perform maneuvers that echo their wartime service. The F8F-2 Bearcat, for instance, is noted for its impressive twilight performances, complete with dramatic exhaust flames that light up the sky. Reddit For those seeking an even more profound connection to aviation history, the opportunity for passenger rides is unparalleled. Imagine soaring through the sky in a piece of living history – it’s an experience that offers a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for the golden age of flight. Reddit

It's crucial to check the museum's schedule for these special events, as they are not always a daily occurrence. Planning your visit around an air show or a day when rides are available can elevate your experience from memorable to truly extraordinary. The chance to be part of such an active and dynamic display of aviation heritage is what sets this museum apart. Reddit

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