Museum of Flying

Ever wonder what it felt like to be a pioneer of aviation? At the Museum of Flying in Santa Monica, you can almost touch the sky. The Museum of Flying first took flight in 1974 as the Douglas Museum and Library. It was the brainchild of Donald Douglas Jr., son of the Douglas Aircraft Company founder. The initial collection showcased artifacts and memorabilia from his father’s legacy. The Museum of Flying officially opened its doors in 1979 at 2800 Airport Avenue. It wasn’t until the late 1980s, through a collaboration between Donald Douglas Jr. and entrepreneur David G. Price, that the museum truly soared. A new building was erected on the north side of the Santa Monica Airport, and the Museum of Flying was reborn in 1989. The museum expanded its collection to include a fleet of vintage aircraft, with a particular focus on World War II fighters. The Museum of Flying isn’t just about static displays. Over the years, it has hosted a variety of prestigious events. From honoring aviation and aerospace pioneers to celebrating historical milestones like the Battle of Britain, the museum has kept the spirit of flight alive. The Museum of Flying has seen its share of turbulence. It closed its doors in 2002 due to financial difficulties. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the museum underwent renovations and reopened in 2012 at its current location at 3100 Airport Avenue. Now, you can explore the museum’s 22,000 square feet of exhibits, from early aviation marvels to the jet age. Kids can even climb into the cockpit of a T-33 trainer or a Convair 240. The Museum of Flying is more than a museum. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and our enduring fascination with the sky. So, come explore the Museum of Flying, where the history of aviation takes off.