Planes of Fame Air Museum on Cal Aero Drive
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Planes of Fame Air Museum Valle

4.8
·2k reviews·Chino, United States

Aviation museum with over 150 aircraft, many still flying, showcasing rich history from WWII to experimental planes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Planes of Fame Air Museum on Cal Aero Drive

Planes of Fame Air Museum Valle

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Aviation museum with over 150 aircraft, many still flying, showcasing rich history from WWII to experimental planes.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"This place is amazing. The kiddos will definitely enjoy seeing the airplanes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check the Airshow Schedule

Don't miss the monthly airshow on the first Saturday! See planes start up and fly.

💧 Bring Water

Hangars can get hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Flying Zero

The Flying Zero

Main Hangar

Witness the world's only flying authentic A6M5 Zero fighter plane. A true piece of history in the air!

WWII Aviation History

WWII Aviation History

Exhibits

Explore detailed exhibits on the 475th Fighter Group and other WWII aviation heroes. Artifacts, photos, and stories abound.

Operational Aircraft Collection

Operational Aircraft Collection

Hangars

See over 150 aircraft, many still in flying condition. The sheer variety and active status are breathtaking.

Military Vehicles

Military Vehicles

Outdoor Display

Beyond planes, discover a Sherman Tank and a Dodge Ambulance, maintained by passionate volunteers.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Hangars can get hot, especially during summer. Visit early or on cooler days. Weekends, particularly the first Saturday of the month for airshows, can draw crowds. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

Plan for the Planes

This isn't just a static display; many aircraft are operational! Check the schedule for 'Hangar Talk' events and flight demonstrations, especially the monthly airshow on the first Saturday. It's a unique chance to see history fly.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
First Saturday of the month
Why
Monthly airshow & flight demos
Crowd
High
When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lugar para pasar un rato gradable y ver aviones de todos los paises #plane #landing #airplane #visitar #museum
@castrojorge777
27.5K likes • 348.6K views

🎯 Check the Airshow Schedule

Don't miss the monthly airshow on the first Saturday! See planes start up and fly. Reddit

💧 Bring Water

Hangars can get hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated! Reddit

reddit.com

I went to the Chino "Plane of Fame Air Museum" and it was awesome! Here's my experience! The planes were huge...

reddit.com

Plane’s of Fame A6M5 Zero! engine start up & fly by!

🚸 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love seeing planes up close, and many are still running! Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about aviation history. Reddit

reddit.com

Newly restored F8F Bearcat piloted by Steve Hinton at the Planes of Fame Museum in Chino, CA does a flyby for the crowd on its first public flight.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check the Airshow Schedule

Don't miss the monthly airshow on the first Saturday! See planes start up and fly. Reddit

💧 Bring Water

Hangars can get hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated! Reddit

🚸 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love seeing planes up close, and many are still running! Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about aviation history. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning shots of iconic aircraft, both on the ground and in the air. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Planes of Fame Air Museum for its extensive collection of operational aircraft and rich aviation history, especially its WWII exhibits. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are frequently highlighted, making the experience educational and engaging. While hangars can get hot, the unique opportunity to see and hear historic planes fly makes it a highly recommended destination for enthusiasts and families alike.

"An amazing "little" museum. It's really not small, just looks like it from the outside.

I had an incredible chat with Victor, who also took me into two areas that weren't finished yet. Forever grateful for the tour, the chat, and the amazing history.

Highly recommend visiting if you're an aviation enthusiast. Lots of history, lots of planes, and even a tank!"

Kevin Tabor

"This place is amazing. The kiddos will definitely enjoy seeing the airplanes. Staff is friendly and very knowledgeable of the aircrafts that are on display. Place is clean and very organized so you know where to go even though it's a self guided tour. Gift shop is really cool with selling a bunch of memorabilia and a few toys."

Domingo Mendez Jr

"Great visit. Staff friendly and knowledgeable. We came on Father’s Day and all the days were free. Hangars were a hot and not enough ventilation. There was a lot to look at but wished there were areas to purchase water. The gift shop was great and had a lot of cool items. We got shirts and a magnet. Crowds were not an issue."

Erica Garcia

What People Like

Operational aircraft collection
Knowledgeable staff
WWII exhibits

What People Dislike

Hangars can be hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at the Chino Airport. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. If using GPS, input 'Planes of Fame Air Museum, Chino, CA'.

Public transportation options to Chino Airport can be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access.

The museum is typically open daily, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation, especially around holidays.

Yes, there is an admission fee. Check the museum's website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts, such as for seniors, military, or children. Some special event days might offer free admission. Reddit

Yes, the museum is open on weekends. However, be aware that the first Saturday of each month features an airshow and flight demonstration, which can attract larger crowds. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees vary for adults, seniors, military, and children. It's recommended to visit their official website for the most current pricing information. Reddit

Discounts may be available for military personnel, seniors, and children. Some special event days, like Father's Day, have offered free admission in the past. Reddit

While not always explicitly stated, purchasing tickets online in advance is often a good idea, especially if you plan to visit during a special event like the monthly airshow, to save time. Check their website for online ticketing options.

The museum is largely self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, engaging with the knowledgeable staff and volunteers can greatly enhance your understanding of the aircraft and history. Reddit

Yes, the museum hosts a monthly airshow on the first Saturday of every month, featuring aircraft startups and flight demonstrations. They also have 'Hangar Talk' events with themed discussions. Reddit

🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse collection of over 150 aircraft, including many rare and historic planes, with a significant focus on WWII aviation. Many are still in flying condition. Reddit

Yes, a remarkable number of the aircraft are maintained in flying condition, and some are flown during special events and airshows. Reddit

Absolutely! Children often enjoy seeing the planes up close, and the interactive nature of some exhibits can be engaging. It's a great place for young aviation enthusiasts. Reddit

The museum also features a collection of military vehicles, including a Sherman Tank and a Dodge Ambulance from World War II, maintained and operated by volunteers. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions. The aircraft make for fantastic photo opportunities. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum has a gift shop that sells memorabilia and toys, but food and drink options on-site can be limited. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, especially on hot days. Reddit

Yes, there are dining options available in the city of Chino, which is a short drive from the museum. You can find various fast-food and sit-down restaurants in the surrounding area.

Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, especially for personal consumption. However, it's best to consume them in designated areas or outside the main exhibit halls to maintain the museum's cleanliness.

📸 📸 Photography

The hangars offer incredible close-ups of the aircraft, while the outdoor areas provide opportunities to capture planes against the sky. The monthly airshow is prime time for dynamic shots. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require special permission. Always check with museum staff if you have specific needs. TikTok

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a 70-200mm, is great for capturing both wide shots of the hangars and details of the aircraft. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interior shots. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer, more dramatic lighting. However, the bright midday sun can also highlight the aircraft's details. The airshow offers unique lighting opportunities. TikTok

Yes, the monthly airshow is a fantastic opportunity to photograph aircraft in action. Be prepared for fast-moving subjects and consider a camera with good autofocus capabilities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Planes of Fame Air Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Kids are often captivated by the sheer size and variety of aircraft, especially knowing that many are still operational. The museum's youth education center is designed to engage younger visitors, making learning about aviation fun and interactive. TikTok

Tips for families:
* Arrive early: Beat the heat and potential crowds, especially during summer months. Hangars can get warm. Reddit
* Bring snacks and water: On-site food options are limited, so packing your own is a good idea. Reddit
* Engage with volunteers: They are a wealth of knowledge and can make the exhibits come alive for children with exciting stories. Reddit
* Check for special events: The monthly airshow on the first Saturday is a highlight that kids will absolutely love seeing planes fly. Reddit

✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts

For true aviation buffs, the Planes of Fame Air Museum is a pilgrimage site. The opportunity to see and potentially hear the world's only flying authentic Zero is a major draw. The extensive collection of over 150 aircraft, many of which are rare and still airworthy, offers an unparalleled experience. Reddit

Don't miss the WWII exhibits, particularly the detailed focus on the 475th Fighter Group. The 'Hangar Talk' events and monthly airshows provide deep dives into aviation history and allow for close-up views of operational aircraft. The chance to chat with knowledgeable staff and volunteers about specific aircraft models and their histories is invaluable. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The museum offers incredible opportunities for photographers, from static displays to dynamic aerial action. The hangars are filled with iconic aircraft, providing excellent subjects for detailed shots. Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both the grandeur of the planes and their intricate details. TikTok

For photographers looking for action, the monthly airshow on the first Saturday is a prime event. Witnessing these historic aircraft take flight offers unique angles and thrilling moments. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide softer, more dramatic lighting, but the bright midday sun can also be effective for highlighting aircraft features. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Flying Aircraft

The Planes of Fame Air Museum stands out because a significant portion of its collection isn't just for display; it's actively maintained in flying condition. This dedication to preserving aviation heritage in a functional state is rare and offers visitors a unique perspective. Many of these aircraft are the only flying examples of their kind in the world, making each visit a chance to witness living history. The museum's commitment ensures that these mechanical marvels don't just sit in hangars but continue to grace the skies, a testament to the ingenuity and spirit of aviation pioneers. Reddit

This focus on operational aircraft means that special events, like the monthly airshow on the first Saturday, are a must-see. Visitors can witness engines roar to life and see these historic machines perform in the air, a truly captivating experience. The museum also hosts 'Hangar Talk' events, where experts share insights into specific aircraft or eras of aviation, often followed by flight demonstrations. These events provide a deeper understanding of the planes and the people who flew them, making the history come alive. Reddit

For aviation enthusiasts, the chance to see and hear these planes fly is unparalleled. It’s not just about looking at static displays; it’s about experiencing the sound, the sight, and the sheer presence of these iconic machines. The dedication of the volunteers and staff to keep these aircraft airworthy is a remarkable feat, offering a dynamic and unforgettable visit for all ages. TikTok

Aviation History Through the Decades

The museum's collection spans various eras of aviation history, offering a comprehensive journey through the evolution of flight. A particular highlight is the extensive exhibit dedicated to the 475th Fighter Group, which served in the South Pacific during World War II. This exhibit features a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal records that paint a vivid picture of their wartime experiences. It’s a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made during that pivotal period. Reddit

Beyond WWII, the museum showcases other significant aircraft and stories. You can explore exhibits on experimental aircraft, naval aviation, and even early pioneers of flight. The sheer diversity of the collection means there’s something to capture the interest of every visitor, whether they are drawn to the sleek lines of early jets or the rugged designs of propeller-driven warbirds. The youth education center also plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of aviators and engineers. TikTok

Visitors often praise the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who are eager to share their passion and expertise. They can provide context and stories that bring the exhibits to life, transforming a simple visit into an educational adventure. The well-organized displays ensure that navigating through the different eras of aviation history is both informative and engaging. Reddit

Beyond the Aircraft: Military Vehicles

While the aircraft are undoubtedly the main draw, the Planes of Fame Air Museum also boasts an impressive collection of military vehicles. These aren't just static displays; many are meticulously maintained and operated by dedicated volunteers. This hands-on approach allows these historical machines to be seen in action during parades and historical reenactments, adding another layer of historical immersion to the museum experience. Reddit

Among the notable vehicles are a Sherman Tank and a Dodge Ambulance from World War II. Seeing these robust pieces of military hardware up close provides a tangible connection to the past and complements the aviation exhibits by showcasing the broader context of military history. It’s a fascinating addition that appeals to a wide range of interests, offering a more complete picture of the era. Reddit

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