EAA Seaplane Base
A tranquil oasis at AirVenture, showcasing unique seaplanes and offering relaxing boat tours. A peaceful escape with aviation charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, pleasant atmosphere
EAA Seaplane Base
Best Time
Quieter, pleasant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil oasis at AirVenture, showcasing unique seaplanes and offering relaxing boat tours. A peaceful escape with aviation charm.
"A wonderful experience to visit the EAA Seaplane Base during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh!"
🚌 Bus to the Base
Grab a $3 roundtrip bus ticket from the main AirVenture grounds for easy access. :bus:
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seaplane Spectacle
EAA Seaplane Base
Witness a stunning array of seaplanes and amphibians up close. A truly unique aviation experience.
Scenic Boat Tour
EAA Seaplane Base docks
Glide on the water for educational and relaxing views of moored seaplanes. Fun for all ages!
Annual Watermelon Social
EAA Seaplane Base
Enjoy a picnic dinner with all the fixings, including watermelon and drinks. A beloved community event.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Seaplane Serenity
Navigate Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Oshkosh planning, any tips?
🚌 Bus to the Base
Grab a $3 roundtrip bus ticket from the main AirVenture grounds for easy access. :bus:
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. :clock1:
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh - Where/When do I go for my first time?
Oshkosh must dos
🚤 Take the Boat Tour
Get unique perspectives of the seaplanes from the water. Educational and fun! :boat:
🍉 Don't Miss the Social
The Friday watermelon social is a highlight with food and drinks. :watermelon:
Tips for first time Oshkosh flyers
Tips
from all over the internet
🚌 Bus to the Base
Grab a $3 roundtrip bus ticket from the main AirVenture grounds for easy access. :bus:
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. :clock1:
🚤 Take the Boat Tour
Get unique perspectives of the seaplanes from the water. Educational and fun! :boat:
🍉 Don't Miss the Social
The Friday watermelon social is a highlight with food and drinks. :watermelon:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a picnic or enjoy the food options available. Relax in the shade. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the EAA Seaplane Base as a beautiful, educational, and relaxing escape from the main AirVenture show. The boat tour is a consistent highlight, offering unique views, and the annual Watermelon Social is a beloved community event. While it offers fewer food choices than the main grounds, its peaceful atmosphere and unique aircraft make it a must-visit for many.
"My favorite place at AirVenture. It is beautiful. The little boat ride is educational, relaxing, and fun. Watching the planes land and take off is wonderful. We had a picnic. Took in the shade and breeze. It was perfect. We have found earlier the better, for quiet and pleasant experience."
Michelle H
"A wonderful experience to visit the EAA Seaplane Base during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025. It was so well organized for mooring the seaplanes, parking cars, the organizer's office, boats to the planes, catering, outdoor seating and joyrides in the floatplanes in a beautiful setting."
Arjun Sarup
"This is a great side trip from EAA, $3 roundtrip bus ticket for sale at the kisok at the bus corral, or "bus garage" as it's called by some. Not as much action as the main show, of course, but it is a nice relaxed atmosphere. Take the boat tour for some up close view of the moored amphibs and float planes. There is food here but not as many choices as the main grounds. With lunch we spent about 3 hours here."
Steve J.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
A convenient bus service runs from the main AirVenture grounds to the EAA Seaplane Base. Tickets are typically $3 roundtrip and can be purchased at the bus corral.
Yes, parking is available at the Seaplane Base, though arriving early is recommended for the best spots.
The EAA Seaplane Base is specifically designed for seaplanes and amphibians, offering mooring and facilities for visiting aircraft.
While primarily accessed via the AirVenture bus service, local taxi or rideshare services might be options depending on availability and event traffic.
The base is generally a park-like setting, and the bus service aims for accessibility. Inquire about specific needs upon arrival or with EAA organizers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the EAA Seaplane Base is typically included with your EAA AirVenture Oshkosh admission. The bus fare is a separate, small fee.
The Seaplane Base generally operates during AirVenture show hours, but it's best to check the official EAA schedule for specific timings.
The boat tour is a popular activity and usually has a modest fee. Check at the kiosk or organizer's office for current pricing.
Yes, the annual Watermelon Social is a ticketed event, typically around $20, which includes a picnic dinner and drinks.
It's advisable to check the EAA website or inquire upon arrival, as tickets for popular events like the Watermelon Social can sell out.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You'll see a diverse collection of seaplanes, floatplanes, and amphibious aircraft, showcasing various designs and eras of aviation.
Enjoy a relaxing boat tour, have a picnic, attend the Watermelon Social, and soak in the peaceful, park-like atmosphere.
Yes, there are food vendors and catering services available, though choices might be fewer than at the main AirVenture grounds.
Most visitors spend around 3 hours to comfortably explore, take a boat tour, and enjoy the ambiance.
Absolutely! The unique aircraft and waterfront setting offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Early mornings are best for light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a wonderful opportunity for children to see unique aircraft up close and learn about different types of aviation in a less overwhelming environment. The bus ride itself can be an adventure for younger ones. Remember to bring sun protection and stay hydrated, especially during warmer days.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Don't miss the boat tour for an intimate look at the aircraft, and consider attending the Watermelon Social for a taste of EAA community spirit. This base offers a specialized and deeply satisfying experience for anyone passionate about aviation.
😌 Relaxation Seekers
It's the perfect place to recharge your batteries before heading back to the main show, or to spend a leisurely few hours soaking in the unique charm of water-based aviation without the intense crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Seaplanes
Many visitors find the atmosphere here incredibly relaxing. It's a chance to step away from the high-energy main event and enjoy a more laid-back aviation experience. The park-like setting, combined with the gentle sounds of the water and aircraft, creates a unique ambiance. It’s a favorite spot for those who appreciate the engineering and freedom that seaplanes represent.
Experiencing the Water
Beyond the boat tours, the waterfront location itself is a draw. Visitors often bring picnics to enjoy in the shade, taking in the breeze and the scenic views. The presence of the water adds a unique dimension to the AirVenture experience, making the Seaplane Base a refreshing escape. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and soak in the aviation spirit at a gentler pace.
The Famous Watermelon Social
This social is more than just a meal; it's a community event that brings together aviation enthusiasts in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. It's a fantastic way to experience the camaraderie of the EAA and enjoy a delicious, casual meal with a beautiful waterfront backdrop. Tickets are required and usually have a set price, so it's worth planning ahead if this is a must-do for your visit.
Social
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