Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum
Step back in time at the CAF Airbase Arizona Museum, home to iconic WWII bombers and legendary fighter jets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the CAF Airbase Arizona Museum, home to iconic WWII bombers and legendary fighter jets.
"An awesome place to visit, especially if you are interested in history or avionics."
Talk to the Volunteers! :busts_in_silhouette:
They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask them anything about the aircraft!
Beat the Arizona Heat :sun_with_face:
Visit in cooler months or early morning. AC can be limited in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
B-17 Flying Fortress
Hangar
Step aboard a legendary WWII bomber and feel the history of this iconic aircraft.
F-4 Phantom II
Hangar
Marvel at the sleek lines of this legendary supersonic jet fighter.
Interactive Displays
Throughout the museum
Engage with informative exhibits and learn about aviation history from dedicated volunteers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Volunteer-Led Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Talk to the Volunteers! :busts_in_silhouette:
They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask them anything about the aircraft! +1
Beat the Arizona Heat :sun_with_face:
Visit in cooler months or early morning. AC can be limited in summer.
Check for Special Flights :airplane:
They offer passenger flights on historic aircraft. Book in advance!
Kid-Friendly Fun :child:
Kids love the displays and even little airplane bikes to ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
Talk to the Volunteers! :busts_in_silhouette:
They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask them anything about the aircraft! +1
Beat the Arizona Heat :sun_with_face:
Visit in cooler months or early morning. AC can be limited in summer.
Check for Special Flights :airplane:
They offer passenger flights on historic aircraft. Book in advance!
Kid-Friendly Fun :child:
Kids love the displays and even little airplane bikes to ride.
Learn About Falcon Field :world_map:
Discover the history of the airport alongside the aircraft.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum for its impressive collection of historic aircraft and the exceptional knowledge and passion of its volunteer staff. While the summer heat can be a challenge due to limited AC, the engaging exhibits and the opportunity to learn from dedicated individuals make it a highly recommended destination for all ages.
"An awesome place to visit, especially if you are interested in history or avionics.
Seeing aircraft up close And learning from the docents is a great experience. While one of the hangers was open because of a visiting bomber in for repairs don’t be afraid to go in the summer. There’s a small theater with A variety of informative movies for when you need a break. Highly recommend Special thanks to Max and Ed, Volunteers who helped us along the way with some incredible facts and information. Thanks to all the volunteers who help bring our avionics history alive. Post to add photos"
Dyanne Ferk
"Such a nice place to learn about various planes and some history of Falcon field and some of these planes and displays. Staff there was so kind and welcoming. This is great for all kinds of people, I came here with a friend and her kids and the kids absolutely loved the little airplane bikes to ride around on. You can also see some planes take off from the airport next to this museum! Only thing is it was really warm in the museum when we visited at the time due to the AC being down I believe, they had only a few fans blowing but not enough, it made it uncomfortable especially during this high heat summer but we were able to still go through the museum."
Gabrielle Sales
"Had the best time at this place, if you live in Arizona or plan to visit bring the family! I have 2 sons in the military and they loved the museum, the history is pretty impressive. The gentleman working are all volunteers and that said a lot about their passion, let’s talk about Martin Brown, his is one of those volunteers! My son‘s totally enjoyed the experience and all his knowledge, thank you so much for making the experience so wonderful Martin."
Lulu Perez Facio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at Falcon Field in Mesa, Arizona. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. While public transport options might be limited, ride-sharing services are a viable alternative.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at the Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum.
Absolutely! The museum is located at Falcon Field, an active airport. You can often see planes taking off and landing from the museum grounds.
For plane enthusiasts, the area around Falcon Field offers good opportunities to watch aircraft. The museum itself provides a great vantage point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally, there's a fee for entry. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
The museum typically has set operating hours, often from morning to late afternoon. It's recommended to verify their hours on their website before your visit, as they can change.
While walk-ins are usually welcome, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events or flight experiences, is highly recommended to secure your spot.
While not as common as at some other museums, it's worth checking the museum's social media or website for any announcements regarding special free admission days or events.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the museum's entrance. However, for popular experiences like flight rides, advance booking is strongly advised.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
The B-17 Flying Fortress and the F-4 Phantom II are major highlights. You can often get up close and even tour the B-17. 
Yes, visitors can often go inside the B-17 Flying Fortress, offering a unique perspective on WWII aviation. Access to other aircraft may vary.
The museum is staffed by passionate volunteers who are eager to share their knowledge. While formal guided tours might not always be scheduled, engaging with the volunteers provides an excellent, personalized experience. +1
Absolutely! Children often love the displays, and there are even small airplane bikes for them to ride. It's a great family outing.
Take your time, read the information panels, and most importantly, talk to the volunteers. Their stories and insights are invaluable. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the museum for personal use. It's a fantastic place to capture stunning images of historic aircraft.
The hangars housing the B-17 and F-4 Phantom offer incredible photo opportunities. The exterior shots with the Arizona sky as a backdrop are also spectacular.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, including volunteers. Most are happy to be photographed if they know it enhances your visit.
While personal photography is usually fine, professional or commercial photography might require special permission. Check with museum staff if you have specific needs.
Focus on the details of the aircraft, the scale of the planes, and the passionate expressions of the volunteers. Capturing the planes in flight (if possible) is also a dream shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Visit early to avoid the peak heat and crowds. Encourage your children to ask the volunteers questions – they love sharing their knowledge! Consider bringing snacks and drinks, especially during warmer months, as the museum's cooling can be limited.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to inquire about passenger flight experiences if available – it's a bucket-list item for many. Even if you can't fly, simply being in the presence of these historic aircraft and hearing their stories is incredibly rewarding. The museum's location at Falcon Field also allows for additional plane spotting opportunities.
🏛️ History Buffs
Key takeaways for history lovers: Focus on the stories behind the planes, engage with the volunteers about historical context, and take time to read the extensive information provided. The museum is a testament to the preservation of significant historical artifacts and the dedication to sharing that history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Warbirds
+1Beyond these iconic planes, the museum showcases a variety of other aircraft, each with its own story. The volunteers are the heart of the museum, and they are incredibly generous with their time and knowledge. They can provide detailed insights into the mechanics, history, and operational use of each aircraft, making your visit far more than just a visual tour. Don't hesitate to strike up a conversation; it's where the real magic happens.
For aviation enthusiasts, the opportunity to see these flying museums up close is unparalleled. The museum also occasionally offers passenger flights on some of its aircraft, providing an unforgettable experience of flying in a piece of history. These flights are a significant draw and require advance booking.
The Role of Volunteers
Visitors consistently praise the volunteers for their kindness, welcoming nature, and extensive knowledge. They are readily available to answer questions, share anecdotes, and provide context that goes far beyond what's written on display plaques. This personal interaction is frequently cited as a highlight of the museum experience, transforming a visit into an educational and memorable journey.
Engaging with volunteers like Martin, Max, and Ed can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the aircraft and their historical significance. They are a testament to the passion that drives the preservation of these incredible machines and are a vital part of what makes this museum special.
Navigating Arizona's Climate
To make the most of your visit, it's highly recommended to plan your trip during the cooler months of fall, winter, or spring. If visiting during the summer, aim for early morning hours when temperatures are more manageable. Staying hydrated is crucial, so bring water bottles.
Even with the heat, the museum's indoor exhibits and the passion of the volunteers make it a worthwhile destination. Just be prepared for the conditions, dress in light clothing, and perhaps plan for a shorter visit during the hottest parts of the day if needed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit