Lyon Air Museum
Explore a stunning collection of WWII aircraft, classic cars, and motorcycles at this Santa Ana aviation museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Lyon Air Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a stunning collection of WWII aircraft, classic cars, and motorcycles at this Santa Ana aviation museum.
"A remarkable museum, a true tribute to our nation’s bravery and ingenuity."
Check for Events
Special car shows and aviation events are frequent and offer unique experiences! :calendar:
Groupon for Savings
Look for discounted tickets on Groupon before you go. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World War II Warbirds
Main Hangar
Experience iconic WWII aircraft like the B-17 Flying Fortress and C-47, many still operational.

Classic Cars & Motorcycles
Exhibition Areas
Marvel at a dazzling collection of vintage automobiles and motorcycles, a testament to the Lyon family's passion.

Interactive Exhibits
Children's Area
Kids can sit in a plane cockpit, a WWII truck, or a motorcycle with a sidecar.

Runway Views
Near John Wayne Airport
Watch planes take off and land from the active runway at John Wayne Airport.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Special Events
Membership & Ticketing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Events
Special car shows and aviation events are frequent and offer unique experiences! :calendar:
Groupon for Savings
Look for discounted tickets on Groupon before you go. :ticket:
Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids love the interactive cockpit and vehicle exhibits. :child:
Plane Spotting
Great spot to watch planes take off and land from SNA. :airplane:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Events
Special car shows and aviation events are frequent and offer unique experiences! :calendar:
Groupon for Savings
Look for discounted tickets on Groupon before you go. :ticket:
Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids love the interactive cockpit and vehicle exhibits. :child:
Plane Spotting
Great spot to watch planes take off and land from SNA. :airplane:
Membership Perks
Consider a family membership for discounts and event access. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Lyon Air Museum's incredible collection of beautifully restored aircraft and classic vehicles, often calling it a hidden gem. The knowledgeable docents, many of whom are veterans, add a personal touch with fascinating stories. It's praised as a great family-friendly spot with interactive exhibits and excellent plane-spotting opportunities.
"This place is adorable. Went for an event. Planes were awesome. They had people dressed up in old military outfits who were super nice. Cars were also great. I’d definitely come for another event."
Frank
"A great museum with some beautifully restored aircraft, some of which still fly. Plus some outstanding antique cars like a Cobra GT signed by Carroll Shelby. Great view of the active runway as well. Definitely worth a visit and very near to the passenger terminal at SNA / John Wayne."
John Belousek
"As a proud American and lifelong aviation enthusiast, I hold a deep admiration for the legendary aircraft that helped shape the course of history—especially the iconic warbirds of World War II. Tucked beside the runways at John Wayne Airport, this remarkable museum is a true tribute to our nation’s bravery and ingenuity. Here, you’ll find vintage planes like the mighty B-17 Flying Fortress and the heroic C-47 that took part in the D-Day invasion—all fully operational and lovingly preserved.
Walking through this museum is like stepping into a living chapter of American history. The aircraft stand as soaring symbols of courage, freedom, and the incredible sacrifices made by our Greatest Generation. Knowledgeable docents—many of them proud veterans—share firsthand stories and deep insights that bring these machines and their missions to life.
But it’s more than just planes—you’ll also discover a dazzling array of classic cars and motorcycles, all part of the Lyon family’s patriotic collection. It’s a fantastic experience for all ages, and I highly recommend the affordable family membership. Every dollar supports the preservation of these American treasures. This museum isn’t just a visit—it’s a heartfelt salute to our nation’s heroes."
Braulio A.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lyon Air Museum is located at 19300 Ike Jones Rd, Santa Ana, CA 92707, near John Wayne Airport (SNA).
It's easily accessible by car, and free parking is available on-site.Yes, the museum offers free parking for visitors.
This is convenient for those driving to the museum.Absolutely! The museum is situated near the active runway of John Wayne Airport, making it a fantastic spot for plane spotting. You can watch aircraft take off and land while you explore.
Driving is the most common and convenient method, with ample free parking. Public transportation options might be limited, so check local transit routes if that's your preferred method.
Yes, it's located at 19300 Ike Jones Rd in Santa Ana, CA, and is well-signposted, especially given its proximity to John Wayne Airport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $14 for adults, $7 for children (5-17), and $11 for seniors and veterans. Children under 5 are usually free.
It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing.Yes, you can often find discounted tickets on platforms like Groupon.
Additionally, the museum offers special pricing for seniors and veterans. Consider a family membership for potential savings on repeat visits.The museum is generally open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM.
However, hours can vary, especially on holidays or during special events, so it's best to confirm on their official website.Yes, tickets are typically available for purchase at the door. However, purchasing in advance or looking for online deals can sometimes save you money or time.
Yes, the museum often features special exhibits, such as vintage car showcases or themed displays. Checking their event calendar is recommended to see what's on during your visit.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a remarkable collection of authentic World War II aircraft, military vehicles, rare automobiles, and motorcycles.
Many of the aircraft are fully operational and beautifully restored.Yes, the museum offers interactive elements for children, including a plane cockpit they can sit in, a WWII truck, and a motorcycle with a sidecar.
This makes it a great family destination.Photography is generally allowed and encouraged, especially for personal use. It's a fantastic place for aviation and car photography enthusiasts.
Yes, docent-led tours are often available, providing in-depth historical narratives and insights into the aircraft and vehicles.
Many docents are veterans who share personal stories.Take your time to explore both the aircraft and the vehicle collections. Engage with the docents for fascinating stories, and don't miss the chance for kids to interact with the exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum does not have a full-service concession stand, but there is a small gift shop that may offer snacks or drinks. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before entering the main exhibition halls to preserve the artifacts.
Yes, being near John Wayne Airport and Santa Ana, there are numerous dining options in the surrounding area, ranging from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
Yes, the museum can host events, and catering services are available, as seen with Above All Catering.
This is ideal for private parties or corporate functions.Catering at events can vary widely, but it's often tailored to the event's theme. For aviation-themed events, expect a range of options from appetizers to full meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted and encouraged throughout the museum. It's a great spot for capturing stunning images of vintage aircraft and cars.
The main hangar with the aircraft, the classic car displays, and the areas with interactive exhibits offer excellent photo opportunities. The proximity to the runway also provides unique shots of planes in motion.
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or videography might require special permission. Always check with museum staff if you have specific professional needs.
Yes, the museum's location near John Wayne Airport allows for great opportunities to photograph planes on the runway.
You can often get dynamic shots of aircraft in flight.A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a telephoto lens for capturing details on the aircraft, would be beneficial. Good lighting conditions are also key, especially inside the hangar.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Car & Aviation Enthusiasts
✈️ History Buffs & Veterans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Aviation History at Lyon Air Museum
Docents, many of whom are veterans, offer invaluable insights, sharing firsthand accounts and historical context that enrich the visitor experience. They help connect the present-day visitor to the past, explaining the significance of each aircraft and its mission. This personal touch transforms a visit into a deeply moving journey through American aviation history.
Beyond the iconic planes, the museum also showcases military vehicles and historical memorabilia, providing a comprehensive look at the era. It's a place where the stories of aviation's past are preserved and shared, inspiring future generations of pilots and history buffs.
The Lyon Family's Automotive Passion
The museum frequently hosts special events that highlight these automotive treasures. Events like 'Porsches on the Flightline' and 'Hot Rods on the Tarmac' bring together enthusiasts and showcase incredible vehicles against the backdrop of historic planes. These gatherings create a vibrant atmosphere where the worlds of aviation and automotive culture collide, offering a unique visual spectacle.
This dual focus on both aviation and automobiles makes the Lyon Air Museum a unique destination. It's not just about the skies; it's also about the ground-breaking machines that have shaped our world. The collection serves as a testament to innovation, design, and the enduring appeal of classic vehicles.
Family Fun and Interactive Learning
These interactive elements are crucial for making history accessible and exciting for younger visitors. They transform passive observation into active participation, fostering a deeper connection with the exhibits. The museum's commitment to providing these engaging opportunities ensures that children leave with memorable experiences and a newfound appreciation for aviation and history.
With its blend of impressive historical artifacts and child-friendly activities, the Lyon Air Museum provides an educational and entertaining outing for the entire family. The affordable family membership is also a great option for those who wish to revisit these historical treasures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit