Museum of Aeronautics and Space
Explore the wonders of flight and space at this iconic museum, home to legendary aircraft and spacecraft. Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Museum of Aeronautics and Space
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the wonders of flight and space at this iconic museum, home to legendary aircraft and spacecraft. Free admission!
"An incredible collection of aircraft and spacecraft, completely free and totally worth it!"
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Entry is completely free! A rare gem for such a high-quality museum. :moneywithwings:
✈️ Plan Your Visit
Check the website for current exhibit status and any ongoing renovations. :informationdeskperson:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Aircraft Collection
Aircraft Halls
Marvel at legendary planes like the SR-71 Blackbird and the Space Shuttle Discovery. A must-see for aviation enthusiasts!
Space Exploration Journey
Space Race Exhibits
Trace humanity's journey to the stars, from early rockets to modern spacecraft. See real moon rocks and astronaut gear.
Early Aviation Pioneers
Early Flight Exhibits
Discover the fascinating history of flight with models of early aviation and vintage biplanes. Learn about Chile's aviation pioneers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Construction & Location Notes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Entry is completely free! A rare gem for such a high-quality museum. :moneywithwings:
✈️ Plan Your Visit
Check the website for current exhibit status and any ongoing renovations. :informationdeskperson:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
🚀 Space & Aviation Focus
Perfect for aviation geeks and space enthusiasts, but engaging for all. :rocket:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Entry is completely free! A rare gem for such a high-quality museum. :moneywithwings:
✈️ Plan Your Visit
Check the website for current exhibit status and any ongoing renovations. :informationdeskperson:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
🚀 Space & Aviation Focus
Perfect for aviation geeks and space enthusiasts, but engaging for all. :rocket:
📍 Location Awareness
Note the difference between the main museum and the Udvar-Hazy Center. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the museum's incredible collection of aircraft and spacecraft, highlighting its historical significance and educational value. The free admission is a major draw, making it an accessible experience for everyone. While some sections may be under renovation, the core exhibits are highly engaging and offer a comprehensive look at aviation and space exploration.
"If you are an aviation geek, definitely a place to visit, there are several aircraft to see, a los of history of Chilean aviation, and surprisingly, other aircraft like the F-4 and Jaguar.
It's completely free and totally worth it!
You know what you're up to as soon as you arrive at Cerrillos metro station."
SkyLife
"Loved this place. I am a pilot, flew helicopters in the USArmy. I loved the models of early aviation and the planes and helicopters of the early 1900s. I had no idea Chile had people with the earliest of planes."
Ryan Turville
"The collection is incredible. From vintage biplanes to sleek fighter jets, each aircraft tells its own story.
What’s great about this museum is how accessible it is. Admission is completely free, which is rare for something this high-quality.
Even if you’re not an aviation enthusiast, I think anyone would enjoy wandering through the exhibits. The museum does a great job of explaining the evolution of flight, and you really get a sense of how far technology has come. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time because there’s so much to see.
If you’re in Santiago and looking for something unique to do, this museum is an absolute must. Whether you’re with family, friends, or just exploring on your own, it’s an experience that leaves you inspired and in awe of what humans have achieved in the skies."
miguel org
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main museum is located on the National Mall in Washington D.C. It's easily accessible by Metro (Smithsonian station on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines) or bus. For the Udvar-Hazy Center, it's near Dulles International Airport and requires a separate trip, often by car or specific shuttle services.
Parking near the National Mall can be challenging and expensive. Public transportation or ride-sharing services are generally recommended. The Udvar-Hazy Center has dedicated parking, though fees may apply.
Yes, but they are separate locations. Many visitors focus on one per trip due to the distance. The Udvar-Hazy Center houses larger aircraft like the Space Shuttle Discovery.
The Udvar-Hazy Center is located at 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, VA. It's best accessed by car or taxi/rideshare. There are limited public transport options.
Yes, the Museum of Aerospace in Santiago, Chile, is accessible from the Cerrillos metro station, making it convenient for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While admission to the National Air and Space Museum is free, timed-entry passes may be required, especially during peak seasons. It's highly recommended to check the official website and reserve your passes in advance to guarantee entry.
Admission to the National Air and Space Museum is completely free. This makes it an incredibly accessible and valuable experience for all visitors.
Generally, the main exhibits are included with your free admission or timed pass. Special IMAX films or planetarium shows may have separate ticket prices. Always check the museum's official site for the latest information.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for both the National Mall location and the Udvar-Hazy Center.
Yes, you can get a 10% discount at the Pima Air & Space Museum store or flight grill with the Southern Arizona Attractions Passport.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include the Apollo 11 Command Module, the Spirit of St. Louis, the SR-71 Blackbird, and the Space Shuttle Discovery (at Udvar-Hazy). The museum offers a comprehensive look at aviation and space history.
Absolutely! The museum has engaging exhibits, including a kids' corner, that make learning about flight and space fun for all ages.
To truly appreciate the vast collection, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you're visiting the Udvar-Hazy Center, allocate a similar amount of time there as well.
Yes, parts of the museum have been undergoing renovations. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current information on which galleries are open and accessible.
This museum showcases Russia's space exploration history, featuring exhibits on Yuri Gagarin, the Sputnik satellite, and the Soyuz spacecraft.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the museum for non-commercial use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Always look for signage.
The iconic aircraft like the SR-71 and the Space Shuttle Discovery make for dramatic photos. The vast halls filled with planes also offer great perspectives.
Tripods and monopods may not be permitted in all areas, and commercial photography usually requires special permission. Check the museum's visitor guidelines for specifics.
Similar to photography, personal video recording is usually permitted for non-commercial purposes. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
Searching on platforms like TikTok and Instagram with hashtags like #nationalairandspacemuseum or #aerospacemuseum will yield many user-generated photos and videos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more hands-on experience, the Aerospace Museum of California is highlighted for its STEM stations, making it an excellent choice for families looking to combine fun with educational activities.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Consider visiting specialized museums like the Hill Aerospace Museum for a deep dive into military aviation or the Aerospace Museum of California for a blend of history and modern aerospace technology.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Similarly, the Museum of Aerospace in Santiago, Chile, also boasts free entrance, making it an excellent value for exploring aeronautical history.
Always look for potential discounts, such as those offered by the Pima Air & Space Museum through attraction passes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Experience
Visitors can expect to see everything from the earliest gliders and Wright brothers' flyers to supersonic jets and the actual Space Shuttle Discovery. The exhibits are meticulously curated to tell the story of innovation, courage, and scientific achievement. Even if you're not an aviation expert, the sheer scale and historical significance of the artifacts are awe-inspiring.
Key highlights include the Apollo 11 Command Module, the Spirit of St. Louis, and the SR-71 Blackbird. The museum also delves into the history of rocketry and the space race, offering a comprehensive look at humanity's quest to explore the cosmos.
Exploring Aviation History in Santiago, Chile
What sets this museum apart is its accessibility and the breadth of its collection. Visitors can admire vintage biplanes, early 1900s aircraft and helicopters, and even modern fighter jets. The museum does an excellent job of showcasing the evolution of flight technology and the pioneers who made it possible.
Beyond the aircraft, the museum also touches upon the space race and features interesting displays, including a Volkswagen Kombi, adding a touch of nostalgia. The fact that admission is free makes it an even more compelling destination for both locals and tourists looking for an enriching and educational experience.
Aeronautics and Space Museums Worldwide
For those interested in specific national achievements, the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in Moscow provides deep insights into Russia's pioneering role in space exploration, featuring artifacts related to Yuri Gagarin and the Sputnik program.
In London, the Science Museum's new Space gallery offers a free opportunity to see Tim Peake's spacecraft and even a piece of the Moon, showcasing cutting-edge technology and historical milestones. These diverse institutions, from the Pima Air & Space Museum in Tucson with its discount programs
to smaller, specialized collections, all contribute to preserving and sharing the incredible story of human flight and our journey into the cosmos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit