Sprint cars
1 / 10

Estrella Warbirds Museum

4.8
·742 reviews·Paso Robles, United States

Explore a vast collection of military aircraft, vintage cars, and historical vehicles. A must-visit for aviation and automotive enthusiasts!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures for exploring

CrowdLow
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Sprint cars

Estrella Warbirds Museum

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a vast collection of military aircraft, vintage cars, and historical vehicles. A must-visit for aviation and automotive enthusiasts!

4.8
(742 reviews)

"One of the best military and auto museums I've ever seen, with a wide variety of displays."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Beat the Heat

Bring a hat and stay hydrated, as many exhibits are outdoors and can get hot.

🎟️ Admission Value

The $18-$20 admission fee is well worth it for the extensive collection.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Warbirds

Iconic Warbirds

Main Hangar

Marvel at meticulously restored military aircraft, including iconic planes and helicopters.

InstagramReddit
Vintage Car Collection

Vintage Car Collection

Automotive Hangar

Explore a stunning array of classic cars, race cars, and custom vehicles.

InstagramReddit
Military Vehicle Displays

Military Vehicle Displays

Outdoor Exhibits

See tanks, jeeps, and amphibious vehicles, offering a glimpse into military history.

InstagramReddit
Flight Simulator Experience

Flight Simulator Experience

Interactive Zone

Experience the thrill of flight with a realistic simulator, bookable in advance.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Beyond the Planes

While the Estrella Warbirds Museum is renowned for its aircraft, don't miss the impressive collection of vintage cars and military vehicles. Consider booking the flight simulator in advance for a unique experience. InstagramReddit

Timing is Key for Comfort

Much of the Estrella Warbirds Museum is outdoors, so plan accordingly. Visiting during cooler months or early in the day is recommended to avoid the heat. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique atmosphere and activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Flyover by Estrella Warbirds Museum Freedom Flight during last Saturday's Pioneer Day Parade #c47B #betsysbiscuitbomber #estrella_warbirds_museum #pasoroblespioneerdayparade #pasoroblesairport
estrellawarbirdsmuseum
49 likes • 298 views

🎯 Beat the Heat

Bring a hat and stay hydrated, as many exhibits are outdoors and can get hot. Reddit

🎟️ Admission Value

The $18-$20 admission fee is well worth it for the extensive collection. Reddit

Estrella Warbird Museum, Part II (See Part I in my previous post) The cool cars collection at the #estrellawarbirdsmuseum is nothing short of stunning! Dozens of fabulous cars the likes of which you probably have not seen before. A true gem in #pasorobles Admission: $18/adults, $8/kids ages 6-12, kids under 6 FREE The museum is open Thursday - Sunday. SAVE this information for the next tim...
family_roadtrip_guru
0 likes • 375 views
Paso Robles, CA! We are coming to your city next weekend for the very fist time🤩 Tell your friends and comment “PASO” to get FREE tickets🎉 🗓️ October 17-19 📍 Paso Robles, CA (Estrella Warbirds Museum) ⏰ 3 PM - 10 PM
805nightmarket
156 likes • 9.5K views

⏰ Allow ample time

Plan for 1-3 hours to fully explore the diverse exhibits. Reddit

🚗 Parking Available

Ample parking is available on-site for visitors. Instagram

F-4J Phantom Radar I shot this at @estrella_warbirds_museum I love airborne radars @aerospace_escapes @tomcat_cockpit_pov @f_4phantomll115 @eric.mcm #f4phantom #radar #f4radar #combataviationist
combat_aviationist
497 likes • 6.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beat the Heat

Bring a hat and stay hydrated, as many exhibits are outdoors and can get hot. Reddit

🎟️ Admission Value

The $18-$20 admission fee is well worth it for the extensive collection. Reddit

⏰ Allow ample time

Plan for 1-3 hours to fully explore the diverse exhibits. Reddit

🚗 Parking Available

Ample parking is available on-site for visitors. Instagram

✈️ Interactive Fun

Book the flight simulator in advance for an unforgettable aviation experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(742 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Estrella Warbirds Museum for its surprisingly extensive and diverse collection, encompassing not only aircraft but also vintage cars and military vehicles. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with the ongoing restoration efforts, add to the positive experience. While some exhibits are outdoors and can be hot, the air-conditioned sections and the overall value for the admission price make it a highly recommended stop.

"I'm not a military expert, but enjoy visiting military museums. While vacationing in Avalia Beach, I was looking for places near, and came across the Estrella Warbird Museum. Drove up, and was surprised to find one of the best military and auto museums I've ever seen. They had such a wide variety of displays for all types of military equipment including planes, helicopters, tanks, jeeps, amphibious vehicles. In addition, all kinds of armaments from sidewinders, surface to air, guided weapons, torpedoes, mortar shells and more. Their Auto Museum was equally enjoyable, classic cars, race cars, service station equipment and so much more. I spent over 4 hours visiting, and will visit next time I'm in the area again."

mbowman189

"We were pleasantly surprised by how much this place has. The number of cars, planes, artillery, guns, and history was surprising and they do a good job displaying everything. The staff were friendly and welcoming. They had detailed descriptions on most exhibits and it was worth the $20 entry fee per person to get in. You could see people actively working on restorations while we were there. It seems like they genuinely care and also want to share the space with visitors."

Ilene W

"Such a fun local museum. Air conditioned. Gift shop. They have a flight simulator that can be reserved in advance. We love flying out of Paso Robles over to Morro Bay in the SIM! We like walking around the planes, tanks, cars, and race cars! There is a lot of history to learn about. You can climb inside of some exhibits to see what it’s like from inside the cockpits. Great for kids and adults! Give yourself 1-3 hours to explore the space."

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What People Like

Diverse collection (planes, cars, tanks)
Friendly and active staff
Good value for admission

What People Dislike

Outdoor exhibits can be hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Estrella Warbirds Museum is located in Paso Robles, California. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Many visitors arrive via Highway 101. InstagramReddit

Public transportation options directly to the museum are limited. It's best to drive or arrange for a ride-sharing service. Instagram

From Highway 101, take the CA-46 E exit towards Paso Robles. Turn right onto CA-46 E, then turn right onto CA-227 S/Airport Rd. The museum will be on your left. Instagram

Yes, the museum is located at the Paso Robles Municipal Airport (PRB), so pilots can fly in and park their aircraft. TikTok

Absolutely! The Estrella Warbirds Museum is a fantastic destination for a day trip, especially if you're exploring the Paso Robles wine region. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically around $18-$20 per adult, with reduced rates for children. Kids under 6 often get in free. InstagramReddit

While specific discounts aren't always advertised, check for special event pricing or group rates. Instagram

The museum is generally open Thursday through Sunday, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours. Instagram

Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance. For special events, advance purchase might be recommended. Instagram

Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and aviation-related items. Reddit

🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse collection of military aircraft, including jets, helicopters, and vintage planes. An F-14 Tomcat and Huey helicopter are often on display. InstagramReddit

Yes, the museum boasts an impressive collection of vintage cars, military vehicles like tanks and amphibious vehicles, and various armaments. InstagramReddit+1

Visitors can often climb inside some of the aircraft and vehicles to get a feel for the interior. Reddit

Parts of the museum, particularly the hangars housing aircraft and cars, are air-conditioned, offering a cool respite. Reddit

The flight simulator offers a realistic flying experience, allowing you to pilot aircraft over simulated landscapes. It's recommended to reserve in advance. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a full-service restaurant, the museum sometimes hosts food vendors during special events, like the Paso Taco Fest. Instagram

It's generally advisable to check the museum's policy on outside food and beverages. Picnics might be permitted in designated outdoor areas. Instagram

Paso Robles offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, many of which are located downtown. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. Be mindful of any specific exhibit restrictions. Instagram+1

The aircraft displays, vintage cars, and military vehicles offer fantastic photo opportunities. The flight simulator area can also be visually interesting. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically prohibited at museums and airports for safety and privacy reasons. Always check the specific regulations. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Estrella Warbirds Museum is a fantastic outing for families. Kids will be thrilled by the planes, tanks, and vintage cars, and the opportunity to climb inside some exhibits adds an extra layer of excitement. Reddit The flight simulator is a must-do for older children and teens looking for an interactive adventure. Reddit Remember to bring hats and water, as parts of the museum are outdoors and can get warm. Reddit

🚗 Car Enthusiasts

Beyond the aircraft, the museum boasts an impressive collection of classic cars, race cars, and custom vehicles. InstagramReddit You'll find a diverse range of automotive history on display, making it a worthwhile stop for any car lover. The Gene Winfield Celebration of Life events also draw significant attention from the custom car community. Instagram

✈️ Aviation Buffs

For true aviation aficionados, the Estrella Warbirds Museum is a dream destination. The meticulously restored military aircraft, including jets and helicopters, are a major highlight. Reddit Keep an eye out for specific aircraft like the F-14 Tomcat and the F-4 Phantom radar. InstagramReddit The museum's dedication to preserving these historical machines is evident and appreciated by enthusiasts. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Aviation Enthusiast's Paradise

The Estrella Warbirds Museum is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by military aviation. The collection features a remarkable array of restored aircraft, from iconic World War II planes to powerful jet fighters and versatile helicopters. Visitors can get up close to these magnificent machines, appreciating the engineering and history behind them. The museum's commitment to preservation and restoration is evident, with ongoing projects often visible to the public. InstagramReddit

Beyond the static displays, the museum offers an immersive experience. The flight simulator provides a thrilling opportunity to pilot various aircraft, offering a unique perspective on aviation. This interactive element makes the museum engaging for all ages, transforming a visit into an adventure. Reddit

Many visitors are impressed by the sheer scale and quality of the collection. The F-4 Phantom radar display, for instance, highlights the intricate technology of military aviation. The museum's dedication to educating future generations about the sacrifices made is a core mission, ensuring history is remembered and honored. Instagram+1

More Than Just Planes: Cars and Tanks

While the warbirds are a major draw, the Estrella Warbirds Museum surprises many with its extensive automotive collection. This includes a dazzling array of classic cars, race cars, and custom hot rods, showcasing a different facet of American ingenuity and culture. The LVTP5A1 AMTRAC is another notable military vehicle on display, offering a look at amphibious assault capabilities. InstagramReddit+1

The museum also features a variety of military vehicles, from jeeps to tanks, providing a comprehensive overview of wartime equipment. Visitors can explore these robust machines and learn about their roles in history. The detailed descriptions accompanying most exhibits enhance the educational value, making it a rich experience for history buffs. Reddit

This blend of aviation, automotive, and military hardware creates a unique and diverse museum experience. It's a place where you can appreciate the power of flight, the beauty of classic automobiles, and the history of military might, all under one roof. Reddit

Community and Events

The Estrella Warbirds Museum is not just a static display; it's a vibrant community hub. The museum frequently hosts special events, such as flyovers during local parades and celebrations of life for automotive legends like Gene Winfield. These events draw enthusiasts from all over and add a dynamic element to the museum experience. TikTokInstagram+2

Events like the Paso Taco Fest have also been held at the museum, transforming the grounds into a lively festival atmosphere. This demonstrates the museum's versatility as a venue, capable of hosting a wide range of community gatherings. Instagram

These events highlight the museum's role in the local Paso Robles community, offering more than just historical exhibits. They provide opportunities for people to connect, celebrate, and experience the unique setting of the Estrella Warbirds Museum. Instagram+1

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