Fort Worth Aviation Museum
Explore a hands-on aviation museum where you can touch and enter many military aircraft, from jets to helicopters. A 'petting zoo' for aviation histor...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Fort Worth Aviation Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a hands-on aviation museum where you can touch and enter many military aircraft, from jets to helicopters. A 'petting zoo' for aviation history!
"It's a petting zoo for aviation! You can touch the actual planes!"
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your admission tickets online beforehand.
🚶♂️ Explore the 'Petting Zoo'
Don't miss the chance to touch and get close to many of the aircraft outside!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Outdoor Aircraft 'Petting Zoo'
Outdoor Exhibit Area
Get hands-on with a vast collection of military aircraft, from jets to helicopters. Touch and explore planes up close!
YF-16 Viper
Indoor/Outdoor Exhibit
See the iconic YF-16, a testbed aircraft built in Fort Worth, up close. A must-see for jet enthusiasts.
OV-10 Bronco
Outdoor Exhibit
Explore the OV-10 Bronco, a versatile aircraft with a rich history, including service in Vietnam. Walkarounds available.
Indoor Artifacts and Models
Indoor Hangar
Discover WWI artifacts, detailed plane models, engines, and historical photographs that tell aviation's story.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Get Up Close and Personal
Beyond the Hangar Doors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your admission tickets online beforehand.
🚶♂️ Explore the 'Petting Zoo'
Don't miss the chance to touch and get close to many of the aircraft outside!
📱 Use QR Codes
Scan QR codes on exhibits for in-depth information about each aircraft.
🪖 Chat with Volunteers
Many volunteers are former pilots with amazing stories to share.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your admission tickets online beforehand.
🚶♂️ Explore the 'Petting Zoo'
Don't miss the chance to touch and get close to many of the aircraft outside!
📱 Use QR Codes
Scan QR codes on exhibits for in-depth information about each aircraft.
🪖 Chat with Volunteers
Many volunteers are former pilots with amazing stories to share.
☀️ Go Early for Parking
Arrive in the morning for easier parking and a more relaxed visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fort Worth Aviation Museum for its incredibly hands-on 'petting zoo' approach to aircraft, allowing close interaction and even entry into many planes. The knowledgeable volunteers and informative exhibits, including QR codes for deeper dives, are frequently highlighted as major positives. While some note it's a smaller museum, the unique experience and historical significance make it a highly recommended stop for aviation fans.
"This was a FANTASTIC museum. The models inside were great, but the real stars are outside, and you can get closer than anywhere else we've ever been. It's a petting zoo for aviation! You can touch the actual planes! Our volunteer was AMAZING and had actually flown the machine he showed us, he just knew everything about these planes. My son was in seventh heaven and this might have been about the best birthday trip ever. They also have informative signs with QR codes at each plane to give you so much information about each exhibit. They have a plane that George Bush Sr actually flew, and a helicopter that helped evacuate Americans from Vietnam. They have simulators inside and a cool little gift shop. We will absolutely come back and visit again, this was great!"
M Brown
"Bought the tickets online for $10, printed out my ticket and presented at the front entrance “Admissions.” The Admissions place is where the gift shop is located, and as soon as you walk out of the entrance, you’re immediately pulled into the museum’s world. The place has so many artifacts from WWI, plane models, plane engines, photographs, aviation clothing, and the “Petting Zoo” which is full of military and Marine airplanes!
You can spend an hour or so at the museum because of how historical they have it. Highly recommend going early in the morning, to have a parking spot and enjoy the outside airplane viewings. Best place to visit for those who are into planes and military history!"
F R
"Had a great time at the Fort Worth Aviation Museum! They have a solid collection of fighter jets, bombers, and helicopters—especially impressive to see the YF-16 up close. The outdoor area is large and gives you the chance to get right next to many of the aircraft, which really adds to the experience. Inside, there's a building full of interesting artifacts and detailed models that aviation enthusiasts will appreciate. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and full of great stories that added a lot of depth to the visit. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area!"
Nick DeMarco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 3300 Ross Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76106. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available, especially if you arrive early.
Yes, parking is available. Arriving early in the morning is recommended for the best parking spots.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, the Fort Worth Aviation Museum is located near Meacham Airport, along with the Vintage Flying Museum.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option to reach the museum if you're not driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $12 per person, but prices can change. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the front entrance, which also houses the gift shop. Buying online in advance is also an option.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or children is usually available on their website. Special event days might have different pricing structures.
Your ticket typically includes access to all exhibits, both indoors and outdoors, and any special displays.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance can save you time, especially during peak visiting hours or special events.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
Yes, many of the aircraft allow visitors to go inside and explore the cockpits, offering a truly immersive experience.
The museum features a wide variety of military aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, helicopters, and cargo planes from different eras. +3
Yes, the museum often has simulators available for visitors to try, adding an interactive element to the visit.
Absolutely! Kids love the 'petting zoo' aspect where they can touch and explore planes. It's a highly engaging experience for families.
The museum features a Rosie the Riveter memorial garden, honoring the women who contributed to aviation manufacturing during WWII.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the museum, allowing you to capture the impressive aircraft and exhibits.
The outdoor aircraft exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the planes up close. The YF-16 and OV-10 Bronco are popular subjects. +1
If you can go inside the aircraft, photography is usually permitted, but always be mindful of any posted restrictions.
Drones are typically not allowed inside museums or on their grounds due to safety and operational concerns. Check with the museum directly for specific policies.
Lighting can vary. Outdoor exhibits are subject to natural light, while indoor areas may have artificial lighting. Consider visiting during golden hour for softer outdoor light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Arrive early to secure good parking and beat the crowds, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable visit for everyone. The Rosie the Riveter memorial garden also offers a moment of reflection.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
The knowledgeable volunteers, many of whom are former pilots, offer invaluable insights and stories that bring the exhibits to life. Don't miss the indoor exhibits featuring detailed models, artifacts, and historical photographs. The QR codes on exhibits provide a wealth of information, catering to those who want to dive deep into the technical and historical aspects of each aircraft.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for softer, more dramatic lighting on the aircraft. While indoor photography is allowed, the natural light outdoors often provides the most striking results. Be sure to capture the details of the cockpits and the sheer scale of these machines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Petting Zoo' Experience
This immersive experience is particularly evident with the outdoor collection, which features a diverse range of military aircraft. From powerful fighter jets to versatile helicopters and historic cargo planes, there's a vast array to explore. The museum's commitment to accessibility means that the history of flight isn't just observed; it's felt. This tactile engagement fosters a deeper appreciation for the engineering and human stories behind each aircraft.
Highlighting Local Aviation History
This iconic jet represents decades of innovation and manufacturing in the region. The museum's collection often includes aircraft with direct ties to North Texas, making it a relevant and educational destination for locals and visitors alike.Beyond the major aircraft, the museum's indoor exhibits delve into the broader narrative of aviation history. You'll find artifacts from WWI, detailed plane models, and historical photographs that paint a vivid picture of aviation's evolution.
The OV-10 Bronco: A Unique Focus
The OV-10's versatility is a key aspect of its history, having been used for various missions such as carrying equipment, infrared mapping, and close air support. Understanding its capabilities and operational history provides a fascinating glimpse into the tactical applications of aviation during its service period. The museum's dedication to showcasing such specific and historically relevant aircraft like the OV-10 Bronco adds a unique depth to the visitor experience.
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