
Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum
Experience living history with a stunning collection of vintage aircraft, many in flying condition, at this Camarillo museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Museum is open

Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum
Best Time
Museum is open

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience living history with a stunning collection of vintage aircraft, many in flying condition, at this Camarillo museum.
"A fantastic aircraft museum with knowledgeable docents and rare vintage planes you won't see anywhere else. "

🎯 Get a Guided Tour
Essential for seeing all hangars and understanding the aircraft's history. Don't miss out!
✈️ Check for Flying Demos
Catching aircraft in action or passenger rides is a highlight. Check their schedule!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Warbirds in Flight
Airfield
Witness legendary aircraft like the F8F-2 Bearcat perform during twilight shows with stunning exhaust flames.

C-46 'China Doll' Tour
Hangar
Step aboard the C-46 'China Doll' for an immersive tour, learning its rich history and exploring the aircraft up close.

Knowledgeable Docent Tours
Hangars
Gain deep insights into WW2 and Vietnam-era aviation from friendly, knowledgeable docents guiding you through the exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Hours & Access
Don't Miss the Flying Demos!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
An F8F-2 Bearcat during a twilight performance, featuring gorgeous exhaust flames
🎯 Get a Guided Tour
Essential for seeing all hangars and understanding the aircraft's history. Don't miss out!
✈️ Check for Flying Demos
Catching aircraft in action or passenger rides is a highlight. Check their schedule!
New B-25/PBJ-1 dorsal turret graphics look great, but I can't get the guns to work?? HOW DO I DO THAT I NEED TO KNOW ASAP!!!!
🎟️ Admission Fee
$10 per person for a full day of aviation history.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning shots of these magnificent vintage aircraft.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get a Guided Tour
Essential for seeing all hangars and understanding the aircraft's history. Don't miss out!
✈️ Check for Flying Demos
Catching aircraft in action or passenger rides is a highlight. Check their schedule!
🎟️ Admission Fee
$10 per person for a full day of aviation history.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning shots of these magnificent vintage aircraft.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum for its impressive collection of well-maintained vintage aircraft and the passion of its docents. Many highlight the unique opportunity to see planes in flying condition and the thrill of air shows. Some visitors note that access to certain hangars requires a guided tour, which is highly recommended for a complete experience.
"This aircraft museum is fantastic. The exhibits are distributed through three or four hangers, and the first hanger is self guided, but all other hangers require a guide or docent to accompany you. Many of the aircraft are in flying condition and I missed the flying exhibition by one day, when more than half the aircraft on display were out on the airfield in exhibition and flight with passenger rides available for a donation."
Craig Philpott
"I went to the Camarillo Air Show and had the chance to visit the CAF SoCal Commemorative Air Force. I took a tour of the C-46 “China Doll” plane, and it was such a wonderful experience. Learning about its history and seeing it up close was truly amazing!"
Saramay Benavides
"Commemorative Air Force - CAF Wing, Camarillo is a great place for vintage aircraft enthusiasts for WW2 / Vietnam periods in aviation history. They've a terrific walk-through museum/exhibits in their hangers. Knowledgeable and friendly docents. Check em out on website and socials. Only open weekends, Fri, Sat. Sun. $10 per person."
Douglas Archer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Camarillo, California. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Check their website for specific directions and any potential road closures.
While public transportation might be limited directly to the museum, you can explore local bus routes that serve the Camarillo area. It's advisable to check with local transit authorities for the most up-to-date information.
The museum spans several hangars. While the first is self-guided, tours with docents are essential for accessing other areas. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Admission is generally $10 per person, offering access to a wealth of aviation history. This price provides great value for the experience.
While not always mandatory, booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially if you want to ensure you get a spot with a docent. This also helps the museum staff plan accordingly.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or children is not widely publicized, but it's worth inquiring directly with the museum or checking their website for any special offers.
Yes, tickets are generally available for purchase on the day of your visit at the museum's entrance. However, booking ahead for tours is advised.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a fantastic collection of vintage aircraft, particularly from the WW2 and Vietnam eras. Many are in flying condition, and some are rare finds.
Yes, passenger rides are sometimes available for a donation during special events or air shows. This is an incredible opportunity to experience flight in a warbird!
The first hangar is self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Other hangars require a docent to accompany you, providing in-depth historical context and stories.
The museum occasionally hosts air shows and flying exhibitions, which are a major draw. Keep an eye on their website and social media for announcements.
Absolutely! Children are often fascinated by the large aircraft and the stories behind them. It's an educational and exciting experience for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the hangars and around the aircraft. It's a photographer's paradise!
While generally allowed, always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid using flash photography directly on sensitive displays or when docents are speaking.
The exterior of the hangars and the airfield offer great vantage points. Inside, try to capture the details of the cockpits and engines.
Yes, flying demonstrations are a prime opportunity for dynamic photography. Just ensure you maintain a safe distance from the aircraft.
The F8F-2 Bearcat is known for its dramatic exhaust flames during twilight performances, making it a standout subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your kids to ask questions of the docents, who are usually very engaging and happy to share stories. Consider booking a guided tour to make the experience more interactive and informative for younger minds. It's a great way to spark an interest in aviation history and engineering in a fun, hands-on environment.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to explore specific aircraft like the C-46 'China Doll' or witness the impressive performance of warbirds during air shows. The museum offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stories and technology of legendary aircraft.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Vintage Aircraft Collection
Visitors can expect to see iconic warbirds, each with its own unique story and significance. The museum's collection is spread across several hangars, with the first often being self-guided. However, to truly appreciate the depth of history and the intricate details of the aircraft, engaging with the knowledgeable docents is paramount. They offer invaluable insights, personal anecdotes, and historical context that transform a simple viewing into an immersive educational experience.
For aviation enthusiasts, the chance to see aircraft like the F8F-2 Bearcat up close, and potentially witness it perform during air shows, is a major draw. The museum's commitment to keeping these planes airworthy ensures that visitors have the rare opportunity to see and even hear these historical marvels in action, making it a truly unforgettable destination.
The Thrill of Air Shows and Rides
During air shows, visitors can marvel at the agility and power of these warbirds, often seeing them perform maneuvers that echo their wartime service. The F8F-2 Bearcat, for instance, is noted for its impressive twilight performances, complete with dramatic exhaust flames that light up the sky. For those seeking an even more profound connection to aviation history, the opportunity for passenger rides is unparalleled. Imagine soaring through the sky in a piece of living history – it’s an experience that offers a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for the golden age of flight.
It's crucial to check the museum's schedule for these special events, as they are not always a daily occurrence. Planning your visit around an air show or a day when rides are available can elevate your experience from memorable to truly extraordinary. The chance to be part of such an active and dynamic display of aviation heritage is what sets this museum apart.





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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit