Blackbird Airpark
Witness the legendary SR-71 and A-12 Blackbird aircraft, the only place in the world where both are displayed together. A marvel of engineering.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Blackbird Airpark
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the legendary SR-71 and A-12 Blackbird aircraft, the only place in the world where both are displayed together. A marvel of engineering.
"Even if you have no interest in aircrafts, this is not to be missed. The Blackbird is a miracle of 1960s engineering."
See the Blackbirds Up Close
Witness the SR-71 and A-12 side-by-side, a unique sight in the world! :airplane:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve these historic aircraft. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SR-71 Blackbird
The legendary Mach 3+ reconnaissance aircraft. A true marvel of Cold War engineering.
A-12 Blackbird
The precursor to the SR-71, this CIA spy plane is a unique piece of aviation history.
Other Historic Aircraft
Explore a collection of other significant military and NASA planes, including a 747 Shuttle Carrier.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
See the Legendary Blackbirds
Free Admission, Donations Appreciated
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
See the Blackbirds Up Close
Witness the SR-71 and A-12 side-by-side, a unique sight in the world! :airplane:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve these historic aircraft. :moneybag:
Knowledgeable Guides
Chat with retired mechanics for fascinating insights into the Blackbird's history. :man_teacher:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find quality merchandise and souvenirs at the onsite gift shop. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
See the Blackbirds Up Close
Witness the SR-71 and A-12 side-by-side, a unique sight in the world! :airplane:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve these historic aircraft. :moneybag:
Knowledgeable Guides
Chat with retired mechanics for fascinating insights into the Blackbird's history. :man_teacher:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find quality merchandise and souvenirs at the onsite gift shop. :gift:
View from Outside
Even viewing from outside the fence offers a powerful perspective of these giants. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Blackbird Airpark, calling it a 'miracle of engineering' and a 'must-see' even for those without a strong interest in aircraft. The unique display of the SR-71 and A-12 Blackbirds side-by-side is a major highlight, complemented by knowledgeable guides and free admission. Some visitors note that viewing from outside the fence is still impactful if you arrive near closing.
"Preface: even if you have no interest in aircrafts, this is not to be missed. The Blackbird is a miracle of 1960s engineering, design and stealth. An amazing achievement. The museum has the very first and the very last Blackbird that ever flew, and it's the only place in the world where there are 2 of them. The guide, Bob, a retired Blackbird mechanic, is so friendly and knowledgeable. There is also a nice gift shop with quality merch.
There are also many other famous military aircrafts, but the Blackbird is the star.
The admission is free, donations welcome. There is a lot of parking and clean restrooms."
Kristina Gybasova
"We did not make it before closing but were still able to view these birds from outside the fences. What a presence these planes have, even standing still. Would recommend coming here to watch these and the other planes parked here."
Andreas Storheil
"This is the only place to see an SR-71 and an A-12 side by side. There's a small airpark with other planes a couple hundred feet away. Definitely worth a stop if you enjoy military and NASA planes. A 747 space shuttle transporter is in the larger airpark."
Mark Brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blackbird Airpark is located in Palmdale, California. It's accessible by car, and there is ample parking available. Many visitors arrive as part of a road trip through the Antelope Valley.
Yes, it's located near other Palmdale attractions like DryTown Water Park and the Palmdale Amphitheater, making it a good stop for a day trip.
For aviation enthusiasts, a road trip to Palmdale to visit Blackbird Airpark is highly recommended. It's part of the 'aerospace valley' region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Blackbird Airpark is free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the aircraft and facilities.
While not always advertised, the airpark can be part of larger car rallies or aviation events, offering a unique experience.
It's advisable to check the official operating hours before your visit, as they can vary. Some visitors have viewed the planes from outside the fences even after closing.
While formal tours might not be standard, retired mechanics often volunteer and are happy to share their knowledge, making for an informal, insightful experience.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the SR-71 Blackbird and its predecessor, the A-12 Oxcart. You'll also find other notable military and NASA aircraft. 
Absolutely! Even if you have no prior interest in aircraft, the engineering and historical significance of the Blackbirds are considered a 'miracle' and 'not to be missed.'
This is the only place in the world where you can see both the A-12 and the SR-71 Blackbird aircraft side-by-side, highlighting their evolutionary relationship.
Yes, the airpark offers plenty of parking and clean restrooms for visitors.
You can see these incredible aircraft up close, allowing for a powerful appreciation of their scale and design.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are of the SR-71 and A-12 Blackbirds together. Capturing their immense size and unique designs is a must.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged, allowing visitors to capture the impressive aircraft on display.
You can get wide-angle shots showcasing their scale, detail shots of the engines and cockpit, and even creative angles that highlight their futuristic design.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is on historical aircraft, the visual impact of these powerful machines can spark imagination and curiosity about aviation and engineering. The onsite gift shop also offers souvenirs that kids might enjoy. Remember to bring water and snacks, as exploring the airpark can be a warm experience, especially during summer months.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Beyond the Blackbirds, the presence of other significant military and NASA aircraft adds to the appeal. Consider this a prime spot for photography and soaking in the rich history of aerospace innovation. The free admission is a bonus for those who want to spend ample time appreciating the collection.
🚗 Road Trippers
It offers a unique and memorable break from driving, allowing you to stretch your legs and marvel at aviation history. The ample parking makes it easy to pull over and explore. Combine your visit with other local Palmdale attractions for a well-rounded day trip. The airpark's free admission and impressive collection make it a highly recommended, low-cost addition to any itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Blackbird Legacy: A-12 and SR-71
+1The SR-71 Blackbird, often referred to as the 'Blackbird,' was its successor and became famous for its unparalleled speed and altitude capabilities. It could fly at over Mach 3 (three times the speed of sound) and at altitudes above 85,000 feet, making it virtually untouchable by enemy defenses. The airpark proudly displays both the very first A-12 and the last SR-71 to fly, offering a unique opportunity to see these legendary machines side-by-side.
Visitors often describe seeing these aircraft as an awe-inspiring experience, a testament to human ingenuity and the pinnacle of aerospace engineering from the 1960s. The sheer presence of these planes, even when stationary, leaves a lasting impression on aviation enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Beyond the Blackbirds: A Wider Aviation Collection
Among the other notable aircraft you might find are various military jets and even a Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA), which was famously used by NASA to transport the Space Shuttle. Seeing these diverse planes together offers a comprehensive look at the advancements in flight, from early jet designs to the specialized vehicles used for space exploration.
This wider collection ensures that visitors of all ages and interests can find something captivating. It transforms the airpark from a single-plane exhibit into a mini-museum of aviation, celebrating the daring spirit and technological prowess that has defined flight.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit