Air Mobility Command Museum
Explore the history of airlift and air refueling with a vast collection of iconic aircraft, many of which you can enter!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More aircraft on display
Air Mobility Command Museum
Best Time
More aircraft on display
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the history of airlift and air refueling with a vast collection of iconic aircraft, many of which you can enter!
"Free admission and the chance to walk inside massive planes make this a must-visit for aviation fans."
🎯 Free Admission & Parking!
Enjoy this incredible museum without breaking the bank. Entry and parking are completely free!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring aircraft interiors. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
C-5 Galaxy
Hangar
Marvel at the sheer scale of the C-5 Galaxy, one of the largest aircraft in the world, and explore its cargo area.
C-47 Skytrain (D-Day Aircraft)
Hangar
Step back in time by walking through the crew compartment of a C-47 Skytrain, a vital aircraft during WWII.
B-17G Flying Fortress
Hangar
Get up close with a B-17G Flying Fortress, a legendary bomber that played a crucial role in World War II.
Flight Simulators
Exhibition Area
Experience the thrill of flight with interactive flight simulators, offering a unique perspective on aviation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Veteran Guides & Cockpit Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission & Parking!
Enjoy this incredible museum without breaking the bank. Entry and parking are completely free!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring aircraft interiors. Comfortable footwear is a must!
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush your visit! Plan for at least 3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and aircraft.
🗣️ Chat with Veteran Volunteers
These knowledgeable guides offer invaluable insights and stories. Ask them questions!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission & Parking!
Enjoy this incredible museum without breaking the bank. Entry and parking are completely free!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring aircraft interiors. Comfortable footwear is a must!
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush your visit! Plan for at least 3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and aircraft.
🗣️ Chat with Veteran Volunteers
These knowledgeable guides offer invaluable insights and stories. Ask them questions!
✈️ Witness C-17 Departures
If you're lucky, you might see a C-17 taxi, take off, or land from near the runway.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Air Mobility Command Museum for its impressive collection of aircraft, free admission, and the invaluable insights provided by knowledgeable veteran volunteers. Many highlight the opportunity to explore the interiors of planes like the C-5 Galaxy and C-47 Skytrain as a standout experience. While generally positive, some visitors note that the museum can be quite large, suggesting ample time for exploration.
"It was a great experience. It is a history museum that offers a wide variety of air force planes, including the largest C-5 Galaxy in the country, and we were allow to explore the control tower and some aircraft cockpits. Entry was free so as parking. The staff were mostly veterans, very polite, friendly and knowledgeable. We like the flight simulator and had the opportunity to hear stories from veterans. It was awesome to see in their magazine some countries in Africa with Air Force bases especially our beloved Cameroon, Nigeria and Gabon."
Oben Ayuk
"Great place to stop and learn about the history of planes used in the Air Force. The volunteers were knowledgeable and friendly, and there’s so much to see and do. The gift shop is also worth checking out."
Robert Alvarez
"My cousin, who lives in the Dover area, brought me here when I visited. I was pleasantly surprised to discover such a fantastic museum. It was Veterans Day weekend, and the place was buzzing with knowledgeable staff. The aircraft were simply breathtaking. I got to walk through some of my favorite aircraft, including the C47 and the C5A. It was an incredible experience. I highly recommend it."
Ed Tubridy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware. Follow signs for the museum upon entering the base. Parking is free and readily available.
Public transportation options directly to Dover Air Force Base and the museum are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the museum.
Yes, the Air Mobility Command Museum is open to the public. Visitors may need to go through security checks upon entering the base.
From US-13, take the exit for Dover Air Force Base. Follow the base roads and look for signs directing you to the Air Mobility Command Museum. It's typically located within a restored WWII hangar.
While parking is generally available, it might be challenging to navigate with a large RV. It's advisable to check with the museum directly for specific RV parking arrangements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Air Mobility Command Museum is completely free! There are no ticket purchase requirements to enter the museum or for parking.
The museum's hours can vary, but it's typically open Tuesday through Sunday. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. However, for special events like 'Spotlight Delaware Family Fun Day,' registration might be necessary.
The museum strives to be accessible. Most exhibits and aircraft interiors are designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities, but it's recommended to contact them directly for specific needs.
Yes, group visits are welcome. It's advisable to contact the museum in advance to arrange your group visit and ensure the best experience.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
The museum boasts over 30 aircraft, including iconic planes like the C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, C-141 Starlifter, C-130 Hercules, and historic WWII aircraft like the B-17G and C-47 Skytrain.
Yes, visitors can enter and explore the cargo areas of several aircraft, including the C-130, C-141, and C-5A. Some cockpits may also be accessible with a guide.
The museum features interactive elements like flight simulators, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
Kids often love exploring the massive aircraft, especially the cargo bays. Flight simulators and the chance to see planes up close are big hits.
Most visitors spend around 3 hours at the museum, but you could easily spend longer if you want a more in-depth exploration of all the exhibits and aircraft.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the museum and around the aircraft for personal use. Be mindful of any specific restrictions for certain exhibits.
The massive aircraft like the C-5 Galaxy and the historic WWII planes offer incredible photo opportunities. The exterior shots with the aircraft against the sky are also very popular.
Access to cockpits may be limited and often requires a guide. If accessible, photography is usually permitted, but always ask first.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited on Dover Air Force Base property, including the museum grounds, for security reasons.
The hangar lighting can be a bit dim in places, so a camera with good low-light performance or a flash might be helpful for interior shots. Natural light is abundant around the exterior aircraft.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With free admission and ample parking, it's a budget-friendly option for a day out. The veteran volunteers are usually great with children, happy to share stories and answer questions in an engaging way. It's a perfect opportunity to introduce young ones to aviation history and the importance of air power in a fun and educational environment.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
+1 The opportunity to explore the interiors of these magnificent machines, including cargo bays and potentially cockpits, is a major highlight.Engage with the knowledgeable veteran volunteers who can offer deep insights into the operational history and technical aspects of the aircraft. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of air mobility, making it an invaluable resource for anyone passionate about aviation history and military aircraft. The sheer scale and historical significance of the collection are truly impressive.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Pack your own snacks and drinks to save even more, as the museum offers a substantial amount of content to explore. You can easily spend several hours here, making it a great value for your time and a perfect addition to a Delaware itinerary without impacting your wallet. The free entry also means you can visit multiple times without incurring costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Aviation History Through the Decades
You can trace the development of these vital machines, understanding their impact on global logistics and military operations.Visitors can explore iconic aircraft that have shaped history. From the legendary C-47 Skytrain that played a pivotal role in D-Day operations
to the colossal C-5 Galaxy, the largest transport aircraft in the US Air Force inventory, the collection is impressive. Each exhibit provides context, detailing the missions these planes undertook and the brave crews who operated them. The museum's commitment to preserving this history ensures that future generations can learn from these incredible feats of engineering and human endeavor.Beyond the aircraft themselves, the museum features artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that bring the past to life. The veteran volunteers are a significant asset, offering firsthand accounts and deep knowledge that enrich the visitor experience. Their passion for aviation and dedication to sharing their experiences make the museum a truly special place.
Exploring the Aircraft: Cockpits and Cargo Bays
For aviation enthusiasts, the chance to see the flight deck and cockpits is a major draw. While access can sometimes be restricted or require a guided tour, when available, it offers an unparalleled glimpse into the operational heart of these aircraft. Imagine sitting in the pilot's seat, surrounded by the instruments and controls that guided these planes through countless missions.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing within the aircraft. The museum staff and volunteers are often happy to answer questions about the aircraft's systems and history, making the exploration even more rewarding. It’s an experience that truly connects you with the tangible history of air mobility.
The Role of Air Mobility Command
The exhibits highlight the evolution of air transport, showcasing how aircraft have become larger, faster, and more capable over the decades. You'll see how AMC's operations have supported humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and the deployment of troops and equipment around the world. The museum effectively communicates the strategic importance of air mobility in national defense and global engagement.
Understanding AMC's mission provides a deeper appreciation for the aircraft on display. It's not just about the planes themselves, but about the vital services they provide and the people who operate them. The veteran volunteers at the museum often share personal anecdotes that illustrate the real-world impact of AMC's work, making the history come alive.
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