New England Air Museum
Explore aviation history with a vast collection of vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to climb into cockpits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
New England Air Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore aviation history with a vast collection of vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to climb into cockpits.
"A must-see destination for aviation lovers and curious minds alike, offering a fun and educational day out."
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore; it's bigger than it looks!
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
They're fountains of knowledge and can offer unique insights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Climb Aboard Historic Aircraft
Various Hangars
Step into the past by entering cockpits of iconic planes and helicopters. A truly immersive aviation experience!
Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit
Dedicated Exhibit Area
A powerful and moving tribute to the bravery and resilience of these pioneering aviators.
Interactive Flight Simulators
Exhibit Area
Test your piloting skills and feel the thrill of flight in these engaging simulators.
B-29 Superfortress
Hangar
Stand in awe beneath the immense scale of this legendary World War II bomber.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Unlock Hidden Gems with Volunteers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore; it's bigger than it looks!
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
They're fountains of knowledge and can offer unique insights.
✈️ Climb into Cockpits
Ask staff for access to sit in select aircraft for a memorable experience.
📚 Library Pass Check
See if your local library offers a museum pass for potential savings.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore; it's bigger than it looks!
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
They're fountains of knowledge and can offer unique insights.
✈️ Climb into Cockpits
Ask staff for access to sit in select aircraft for a memorable experience.
📚 Library Pass Check
See if your local library offers a museum pass for potential savings.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring hangars. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the New England Air Museum for its impressive collection of aircraft, engaging interactive exhibits, and the invaluable knowledge shared by its passionate volunteers. Many highlight the opportunity to climb into cockpits and the well-presented Tuskegee Airmen exhibit. While generally a positive experience, some note that certain exhibits may be roped off.
"Today we visited for the first time and we really enjoyed our time here. We took our time as we made our way through the various exhibits (spent 3 hours total here). There were three hangars to explore as well as aircraft on display outside. My partner and I are both interested in history and he was specifically interested in the aircraft (I like to look and learn the history, he likes to dive a bit deeper with them). The docents were extremely friendly and we learned a lot from them. Sometimes I get really overwhelmed by how much there is to take in at museums, but what I really liked about this museum was the fact that most of the informative signs had large text with maybe a paragraph or two so I didn’t feel like I was trying to rush to read tons of text - it made it really easy to digest the information. We also loved that we were able to go into many of the aircraft on display or peek inside them."
Kailey MarcAurele
"I have visited the Air Museum several times, in the early 1990s and again in the 2000s. I enjoyed each visit. Since then, the museum has undergone significant expansion. Although many exhibits are roped off, certain planes and helicopters offer visitors the opportunity to climb the stairs and enter the cockpit if you ask a staff member. We took advantage of this opportunity, sitting in two planes. We saw families with young children and older couples who seemed to be enjoying themselves. We were there for about two hours. There's a gift shop, elevators, vending machines, and restrooms."
Clarisse Matisyn
"Wanted something to do on a rainy day and found ourselves at the New England air museum. The planes and helicopters were amazing but what really made it a great experience was the volunteers. Lawrence is a fountain of knowledge, we leaned so much and enjoyed exploring the exhibits. I give this place a 10/10, definitely worth a visit and give yourself plenty of time, it’s bigger than you think."
Nicole Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New England Air Museum (NEAM) is located at 601 Silver Lane, East Hartford, CT 06118, adjacent to Bradley International Airport. It's easily accessible by car, with plenty of free parking available. For those using public transport, you can check local bus routes that service the airport area, though driving is generally the most convenient option.
Yes, the New England Air Museum offers free parking for all visitors, making it convenient for those driving to the museum.
Absolutely! The museum is located right next to Bradley International Airport (BDL), making it a perfect stop for travelers. You can easily reach it by a short taxi or rideshare trip.
The museum is situated in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. It's a short drive from Hartford, Connecticut, and within a reasonable distance from other New England cities like Springfield, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island.
Yes, there are several hotels located near Bradley International Airport and Windsor Locks, offering convenient accommodation options for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The New England Air Museum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last admission at 3:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for any special holiday hours or closures.
Admission prices are generally $21 for adults, $13 for youth (ages 4-14), and free for children 3 and under. Seniors and military personnel may have discounted rates. Checking their website for the most current pricing is recommended. 
Yes, you can often purchase tickets online through the museum's official website to save time upon arrival. Some special events may require advance ticket purchase.
It's worth checking if your local library offers museum passes, as this can sometimes provide a discount. Keep an eye on their website for any special promotions or group rates.
The museum likely offers group rates for school field trips and other organized groups. Contacting their group sales department in advance is the best way to inquire about these options.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You can explore multiple hangars filled with vintage aircraft, helicopters, and artifacts. Highlights include climbing into cockpits, interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and a special Tuskegee Airmen exhibit.
Yes, it's very family-friendly! Kids can climb into aircraft, enjoy interactive exhibits, and learn about aviation in an engaging way. There's even a build-and-fly area.
Yes, in many cases, you can climb the stairs and enter the cockpits of select aircraft. This is a popular feature that allows for a more immersive experience.
Indeed! The museum features flight simulators where visitors can test their piloting skills and experience the thrill of flight.
The Tuskegee Airmen exhibit is a well-done, powerful, and moving tribute to the history, resilience, and inspiration of these pioneering African American pilots.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to see everything, but if you have young children or are a dedicated aviation enthusiast, you might want to allocate more time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has vending machines for snacks and drinks. For more substantial meals, there are dining options available in the nearby Windsor Locks area or at Bradley International Airport.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and drinks to consume in designated areas, though full meals might be better enjoyed outside the museum. Check their policy if you plan to bring a picnic.
Yes, Windsor Locks and the surrounding areas offer various dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. You can also find options at the nearby airport. +1
Windsor Locks offers a range of cuisines, including American diners, pizza places, and some international options. You can also find fast-food chains. +1
Yes, the museum has a gift shop where you can purchase aviation-themed souvenirs, books, and memorabilia.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use throughout the museum. It's a fantastic place to capture stunning images of historic aircraft.
The hangars themselves offer dramatic lighting for aircraft photos. Don't miss opportunities to photograph the B-29 Superfortress, the Sikorsky VS-44A flying boat, and any aircraft with open cockpits.
While you can often sit in the cockpits, it's best to ask a volunteer or staff member if photography is permitted inside the cockpit itself, especially if it's a sensitive exhibit.
Typically, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in areas where it might be disruptive.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the aircraft and details. A prime lens can be useful for low-light conditions inside the hangars.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your visit with children, consider arriving early on a weekday to avoid crowds. The museum's clear signage and approachable volunteers make it easy for families to navigate and learn together. Don't miss the special events, which often cater to younger audiences and add an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Take advantage of the knowledgeable volunteers who can offer deep dives into the technical aspects and operational history of the aircraft. The museum's ongoing restoration projects also provide a fascinating glimpse into the preservation efforts. Plan for at least 2-3 hours, or even longer, to fully appreciate the depth of the collection and the stories behind each plane.
📚 STEM Learners & Field Trips
Field trips here are highly recommended, as the museum is designed to be educational and interactive. The volunteers are adept at explaining complex concepts in an accessible manner, making it an ideal setting for school groups. The flight simulators and build-and-fly areas further enhance the learning experience, sparking curiosity and interest in aviation and related STEM fields.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Hangars: A Journey Through Aviation History
One of the most compelling aspects of the museum is its focus on Connecticut's significant contributions to aviation. You'll learn about pioneers like Igor Sikorsky and the development of helicopters, as well as the state's role in aerospace manufacturing. The Sikorsky VS-44A flying boat, the last of its kind in the world, is a particular standout, offering a glimpse into a unique chapter of aviation history. The museum also highlights the Tuskegee Airmen, providing a powerful and moving tribute to their legacy.
Beyond the static displays, the museum offers a dynamic look at aircraft restoration. The Aircraft Restoration Team, comprised of dedicated volunteers, works diligently to bring these historic machines back to life. Visitors can often observe this process in the restoration hangar, gaining insight into the meticulous work involved in preserving aviation heritage. This hands-on element, combined with interactive exhibits and flight simulators, makes the New England Air Museum a truly immersive and educational destination.
Interactive Learning and Family Fun
Docents and volunteers play a crucial role in enhancing the learning experience. These passionate individuals are often former pilots or aviation professionals eager to share their knowledge and stories. They can provide deeper insights into the aircraft, their operational history, and the broader context of aviation development. Their willingness to engage with visitors, answer questions, and even grant access to climb into cockpits transforms a typical museum visit into a memorable adventure.
The museum's design also contributes to its family-friendliness. Informative signs often feature large text and concise paragraphs, making the information digestible for visitors of all reading levels, including children. This approach prevents overwhelm and allows families to enjoy learning together at their own pace. Special events, like Halloween in the Hangars, further enhance the family appeal with themed activities and a festive atmosphere.
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