Palm Springs Air Museum
Explore iconic combat aircraft from WWII to modern eras, with hands-on access and passionate veteran docents. A must-see for aviation and history buff...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Palm Springs Air Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore iconic combat aircraft from WWII to modern eras, with hands-on access and passionate veteran docents. A must-see for aviation and history buffs!
"The coolest experience for anyone even slightly interested in airplanes or American history!"
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Palm Springs is in the desert. Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
🪖 Free Admission for Active Duty
Active Duty military and spouses get free admission with ID.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
WWII Era Aircraft
Hangar 1
Get up close to iconic WWII planes like the B-17 Flying Fortress, many in flying condition.

Lockheed Skunk Works Collection
Hangar 3
Marvel at cutting-edge aircraft from Lockheed's legendary Skunk Works, including the F-117 Nighthawk and DarkStar.

Interactive Cockpit Experience
Various Aircraft
Sit in the pilot's seat of select fighter jets and experience what it's like to be in command.

Walt Disney's Aircraft
Hangar 1
See Walt Disney's personal Grumman Gulfstream I, a piece of animation history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Engage with History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Palm Springs is in the desert. Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
🪖 Free Admission for Active Duty
Active Duty military and spouses get free admission with ID.
🪙 Make Memory Coins
Bring quarters to create personalized souvenir coins with aircraft designs.
🗣️ Chat with Docents
The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and love to share stories.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Palm Springs is in the desert. Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
🪖 Free Admission for Active Duty
Active Duty military and spouses get free admission with ID.
🪙 Make Memory Coins
Bring quarters to create personalized souvenir coins with aircraft designs.
🗣️ Chat with Docents
The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and love to share stories.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Many aircraft are accessible for close-up photos, some even allow cockpit access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Palm Springs Air Museum for its impressive collection of well-maintained aircraft and the incredibly knowledgeable and passionate docents who bring history to life. The hands-on experience, including sitting in cockpits, is a major highlight for all ages. While the desert heat can be a factor, the engaging exhibits and friendly staff make it a highly recommended visit.
"From the moment you step onto the grounds, you're transported to a different era, one of innovation, sacrifice, and unparalleled heroism.
What truly sets this museum apart is the incredible hands-on experience. Unlike many other museums where aircraft are roped off behind barriers, here you can get up close and personal with the planes. The collection of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam era aircraft is meticulously maintained, and many of the planes are still in flying condition. The opportunity to actually sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet is an exhilarating experience that appeals to all ages.
The true highlight of the visit, however, is the staff. The docents are a mix of veterans and passionate volunteers who share their stories and knowledge with an infectious enthusiasm. Their personal anecdotes bring the history to life in a way that no plaque or sign ever could. They are a testament to the dedication and spirit of the people who shaped aviation history."
Neon Pion
"THE COOLEST experience for anyone!!! Even for slightly interested in airplanes or American history. So many great aircrafts and other machines like cars, motorcycles. You can see everything from up close and also ask staff there (all of them were so kind and happy when we wanted to ask questions and listen to great histories). Prepare some quarters and pennys because you can make your own memory coins with planes in each hangar. Also each hangar has interactive screens with films about that time in history or technical details of planes. There is so much to see and I guarantee you will love it here."
Natalia Zabielska
"Decided to explore another part of this exciting city and found myself at the Palm Spring Air Museum in Hot Springs 😀. Since my dad was a Marine, I try to honor him by visiting places like this and learning more about our military heroes through their stories and history. Just a little tip, it’s a really dry heat out here, so stay hydrated! The aircraft are retired, but the lessons and history they hold are alive and inspiring for anyone who loves to learn. Call or visit website to confirm hours. Tell them Team Smiley sent you."
Tressa Smiley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palm Springs Air Museum is located at 745 N Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92262. It's easily accessible by car and has ample parking. If you're coming from other parts of Palm Springs, ride-sharing services are also a convenient option.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at the museum, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
While specific routes may vary, Palm Springs has a public bus system that might connect to areas near the museum. It's best to check the local transit authority's website for the most current routes and schedules.
Yes, the Palm Springs Air Museum is relatively close to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, making it possible to visit both attractions in the same day.
Many visitors find that driving or using ride-sharing services is the most efficient way to get around Palm Springs, especially to attractions like the Air Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum's hours can vary, so it's always recommended to check their official website or call ahead to confirm. Generally, they are open daily, but specific times might differ.
Admission prices can change, but typically there's a fee for adults and sometimes discounts for seniors or children. Active Duty military and spouses often receive free admission with ID.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Active Duty military members and their spouses often get free admission. It's worth checking their website for any other potential discounts or special offers.
While general admission typically has a fee, Active Duty military members and their spouses can enjoy free entry with a valid ID.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You'll find an impressive collection of combat aircraft from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, including iconic planes like the B-17 Flying Fortress and the F-117 Nighthawk. They also feature Lockheed Skunk Works aircraft.
Yes, many of the aircraft are accessible, and some even allow visitors to sit in the cockpit, offering a truly immersive experience.
The museum has knowledgeable docents, many of whom are veterans, who are available to share stories and answer questions, providing an informal guided experience.
Absolutely! Kids are often fascinated by the large aircraft, and the interactive elements like sitting in cockpits make it an engaging visit for families.
The DarkStar is a cutting-edge aircraft from Lockheed's Skunk Works, featured at the museum. It's a product of advanced aerospace engineering and has been displayed to the public.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum typically has a cafe or snack bar where you can purchase refreshments and light meals.
Outside food and drinks may be restricted. It's best to check the museum's policy or plan to dine at their onsite cafe.
Yes, the museum is located in Palm Springs, which offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, just a short drive away.
The cafe usually offers snacks, sandwiches, and beverages, catering to visitors looking for a quick bite during their visit.
Prices at museum cafes are generally comparable to other casual dining spots. It's a convenient option for a meal without leaving the attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged throughout the museum, allowing you to capture the impressive aircraft.
In many cases, yes! Some aircraft allow visitors to sit in the cockpit and take photos, offering a unique perspective.
While generally permitted, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography directly on sensitive displays if instructed.
The WWII hangar with the B-17, the Skunk Works hangar, and any aircraft with accessible cockpits offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at museums and indoor attractions for safety and privacy reasons. Always check the museum's specific policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Active Duty military families will appreciate the free admission for service members and their spouses, making it an accessible outing. The museum's layout is generally easy to navigate, and the passionate docents are usually happy to engage with younger visitors, sharing exciting stories that spark imagination.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Beyond the aircraft themselves, the museum's docents are a significant draw. Their deep knowledge and personal experiences provide invaluable insights into the technical details and historical context of each plane. It's a chance to delve into the engineering marvels and the human stories behind these iconic machines.
❤️ History Buffs
The personal narratives shared by the docents, many of whom are veterans, add a profound human element to the exhibits. Hearing firsthand accounts brings the historical context to life, offering a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and innovations of these times. It's an opportunity to connect with history on a deeply personal level.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lockheed Skunk Works Legacy
Among the stars of the Skunk Works collection are the F-117 Nighthawk, the world's first operational stealth fighter, and the DarkStar, a hypersonic demonstrator aircraft that captured public imagination. The museum also showcases other significant Lockheed aircraft, offering a glimpse into the evolution of military aviation technology. Seeing these marvels of engineering firsthand is a truly awe-inspiring experience for aviation enthusiasts.
These aircraft represent decades of cutting-edge research and development. The opportunity to view them in person, often with detailed explanations from passionate docents, provides a unique educational experience. It’s a chance to connect with the ingenuity and daring spirit that defines American aerospace achievement.
Hands-On Aviation History
The chance to sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet or a bomber is a highlight for many, offering a tangible sense of what it was like for pilots during critical historical periods. Imagine gripping the controls of a WWII-era plane or peering through the canopy of a jet fighter – it’s an exhilarating experience that appeals to all ages and levels of aviation interest.
Beyond the aircraft themselves, the museum fosters interaction through interactive screens within each hangar, providing films and technical details about the planes and their eras. This blend of physical proximity and digital information creates a rich learning environment, making history feel alive and accessible.
The Role of Dedicated Docents
Many docents have firsthand experience with the aircraft or the eras they represent, offering anecdotes and perspectives that no textbook or plaque could ever convey. They can explain the nuances of flight, the challenges faced by pilots, and the historical significance of each machine. This personal connection makes the history of aviation incredibly relatable and impactful.
Their enthusiasm is infectious, creating a welcoming atmosphere where curiosity is encouraged. Whether you're a seasoned aviation buff or a first-time visitor, engaging with the docents is a must-do to truly appreciate the sacrifices and triumphs embodied by the aircraft on display.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit