Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum Hood River
A vast collection of meticulously restored antique airplanes and automobiles, many of which still fly and run.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Hundreds of vintage planes arrive!
Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum Hood River
Best Time
Hundreds of vintage planes arrive!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast collection of meticulously restored antique airplanes and automobiles, many of which still fly and run.
"The museum itself is phenomenal. The variety of airplanes, antique cars and various other collections are mind boggling but, incredibly well curated."
Allocate Ample Time
You can easily spend hours here; don't rush through this incredible collection!
Check for Special Events
The annual Fly-in is a highlight, drawing hundreds of vintage aircraft.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Aircraft Collection
Hangars
Marvel at meticulously restored planes, many of which still fly, showcasing aviation history.
Antique Automobile Displays
Hangars
Explore a stunning array of classic cars from the early 20th century, all in pristine condition.
Diverse Memorabilia
Throughout the museum
Discover a fascinating mix of military items, antique cameras, bicycles, and more.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Budgeting for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time
You can easily spend hours here; don't rush through this incredible collection!
Check for Special Events
The annual Fly-in is a highlight, drawing hundreds of vintage aircraft.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
Engage with Staff
Volunteers are knowledgeable and happy to share stories about the exhibits. :smiley:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time
You can easily spend hours here; don't rush through this incredible collection!
Check for Special Events
The annual Fly-in is a highlight, drawing hundreds of vintage aircraft.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
Engage with Staff
Volunteers are knowledgeable and happy to share stories about the exhibits. :smiley:
Consider a Vintage Flight
Experience the thrill of flying in a vintage aircraft for an unforgettable adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum for its phenomenal and incredibly well-curated collection of vintage planes and cars, with many pieces in pristine, working condition. The knowledgeable and friendly staff and volunteers significantly enhance the experience. However, some find the admission prices to be quite high, and a few noted minor issues like visible drip pans under some exhibits.
"We arrived for their annual Fly-in. It is always an excellent event. The museum itself is phenomenal. The variety of airplanes, antique cars and various other collections are mind boggling but, incredibly well curated, so not too overwhelming. Their staff is very knowledgeable and friendly. On the fly-in weekend, anywhere from 200 - 400 vintage airplanes fly in from all over the country. There are some flight demonstrations, author talks, you can pay to fly in a vintage airplane, plus lots more exhibits, food and souvenirs. The museum is worthy of a visit any time but, during the fly-in it is extra wonderful."
G. Kim Taylor
"This was really cool. You can get lost in all of them. I only covered 1/3 of the items. In two hours. Lots to see. And a great bbq food cart, highly rated. And if you really want to go up in a triplane you can. Good family fun!!!!"
Cassidy Tomi
"Great experience for all ages. Among the cars and airplanes you will find antiques of all types, stories and photos. Beautiful displays. Everything is sparkling clean and you can get up close, too. We got to meet the founder as he was crusing around and enjoyed a conversation about how this all came together, how they keep it going (it's a nonprofit) and big plans for continued growth."
Julie Ann Zerby Rinard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Hood River, Oregon. It's accessible by car, and many visitors find it a scenic drive through the Columbia River Gorge. Parking is generally easy and free.
Yes, it's a well-known attraction in Hood River. Using GPS or a mapping app will guide you directly to the museum's location.
Driving is the most common method. If you're coming from Seattle, it's a popular stop on a PNW road trip.
Public transport options directly to the museum might be limited. It's best to plan for private transportation like a car.
Given its focus on aviation, the museum is a popular destination for pilots. The Reddit tip mentions an active pilot community and keeping small planes, suggesting an airport culture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can be a bit steep, with adults around $25, military/seniors around $21, and those 18 and under around $12. There are no family passes or EBT discounts mentioned.
While specific discounts like family passes or EBT are not mentioned, check their official website or inquire about potential group rates or special event pricing.
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the museum's official website before your visit to confirm current operating times.
It's advisable to check their website for advance ticket purchase options, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or special events. :ticket:
While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, museums of this nature typically strive for accessibility. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information. :wheelchair:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum boasts an incredible collection of antique airplanes, classic cars, military memorabilia, firearms, antique cameras, bicycles, and even snowmobiles.
Yes, many of the planes still fly and the automobiles are in running condition, showcasing their historical functionality.
Absolutely! Kids love anything with a motor, and there's something around every corner to grab attention, making it great family fun.
Yes, displays are often clean and allow visitors to get quite close, offering a detailed view of the historical pieces.
It's an excellent event where 200-400 vintage airplanes fly in from across the country, featuring flight demonstrations, author talks, and opportunities to fly in a vintage aircraft.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's often a highly-rated BBQ food cart available, perfect for refueling during your visit.
Information on bringing outside food isn't provided, but it's generally a good idea to check the museum's policy or plan to dine at their available food options. :knifeforkplate:
BBQ is a popular offering, providing a satisfying meal for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted, allowing you to capture the stunning details of the vintage aircraft and automobiles. :camerawithflash:
Every corner offers a photo opportunity, from the gleaming exteriors of cars to the intricate details of aircraft engines. 
While generally allowed, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disturb them or damage delicate exhibits. :iphone:
Yes, you can photograph specific aircraft like the St. Louis YPT-15, which the museum has showcased.
Wide shots to show the scale of the hangars and close-ups to highlight the craftsmanship of individual vehicles and planes are recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't many hands-on exhibits, the visual appeal and the sheer scale of the collection are enough to keep young minds engaged. The opportunity to see vehicles that still fly and run adds an exciting element. Consider visiting during the annual Fly-in for an even more dynamic experience, though be prepared for larger crowds. Tips for families: Allocate plenty of time, as there's a lot to see. Comfortable shoes are a must for little explorers. While admission can be a bit pricey, the unique experience and the 'wow' factor for kids often make it a worthwhile investment.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
The opportunity to learn about the history and restoration of these aircraft from knowledgeable staff and volunteers is invaluable. Don't miss the chance to attend the annual Fly-in event, which draws hundreds of vintage planes from across the country.
🚗 Classic Car Lovers
Beyond just looking, the fact that many of these cars are still operational adds a layer of appreciation for their engineering.
Engage with the museum's volunteers to learn about the restoration process and the stories behind these vehicles. The museum's location in the scenic Columbia River Gorge also adds to the overall appeal of a visit for car lovers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Collection: Planes and Automobiles
The automobile collection spans from the early 1900s to more recent classics, all presented in pristine condition. Visitors often express awe at the sheer volume and quality of the exhibits. The hangars are filled with these mechanical marvels, creating an immersive experience. The fact that these pieces are maintained to such a high standard, with many still capable of operation, is a testament to the dedication of the museum's staff and volunteers.
Beyond the main attractions, the museum also features a fascinating array of military memorabilia, antique cameras, bicycles, and even snowmobiles.
A Community of Preservationists
The museum relies heavily on knowledgeable and friendly volunteers who are eager to share their expertise and stories about the exhibits. The museum's commitment to preservation is evident in the condition of its collection. Many pieces have been restored by staff and volunteers, ensuring that these historical artifacts are not only displayed but also kept in working order.
For those interested in the mechanics and history behind these machines, engaging with the museum's team is highly recommended. They can provide detailed information about the restoration process, the historical significance of specific vehicles, and the ongoing efforts to maintain this incredible collection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit