March Field Air Museum
Explore over 70 historic military aircraft, including the unique open-cockpit SR-71 Blackbird, at this expansive West Coast aviation museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
March Field Air Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 70 historic military aircraft, including the unique open-cockpit SR-71 Blackbird, at this expansive West Coast aviation museum.
"One of the best museums I have ever visited, a must-see for anyone interested in Air Force and military history."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider purchasing tickets online in advance, especially if you find a Groupon, to save time.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the extensive outdoor aircraft displays and large hangar.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SR-71 Blackbird
Outdoor Display
Experience the legendary SR-71 Blackbird, uniquely displayed with an open cockpit for an up-close look.
+1
Vast Aircraft Collection
Hangar and Outdoor Exhibits
Marvel at over 70 historic military aircraft, from WWI to modern jets, showcasing incredible aviation history.
Interactive Exhibits
Indoor Displays
Engage with displays on shortwave radio, electronics, and even space hardware, offering a diverse learning experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key
Comfort is Crucial for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider purchasing tickets online in advance, especially if you find a Groupon, to save time.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the extensive outdoor aircraft displays and large hangar.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Hats and bottled water are recommended for comfort during outdoor viewing, especially on warm days.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's vast collection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider purchasing tickets online in advance, especially if you find a Groupon, to save time.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the extensive outdoor aircraft displays and large hangar.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Hats and bottled water are recommended for comfort during outdoor viewing, especially on warm days.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's vast collection.
📸 Capture the History
The museum offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with unique displays like the open SR-71.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the March Field Air Museum for its vast and impressive collection of historic military aircraft, with many surprised by the sheer number of planes on display. The unique open-cockpit SR-71 Blackbird is a standout attraction. The friendly and knowledgeable staff also contribute to a highly positive visitor experience, making it a recommended destination for all ages.
"Super well put together air meusem with a replica Iraq war base and Vietnam base. It has planes from a wright flyer to b52. The staff are really polite and let me crawl up through the bomb bay of the b52. The b24 exhibit is also really well made with interactive turrets and door guns. Thare is also entire rooms of uniforms wich is vary cool. I would recommend this to anyone."
Elton
"Great museum! Many many aircraft, way more than I anticipated. Google didn't do it justice so I've added more pics. If you are into short wave radio, TV, and electronics check out their display devoted to their history. The SR-71 was really awsome. Many displays you can experience. Also displays of space hardware, U.S. and Russia."
Joseph Mach
"We took our 2yo grandson to the museum and were pleasantly surprised on how engaged he was with the exhibits. We arrived at 10am and there wasn’t a wait to enter. Their main museum area is a huge hangar! Don’t hesitate to go through the hallways (AC was great!) for additional displays. We liked that the glassed collections were from floor to ceiling to allow little ones to view items.
For viewing the outdoor planes & helicopters we wore comfortable shoes. Due to the warm weather we brought hats and bottled water."
Frances Morimoto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The March Field Air Museum is located at 22559 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518. It's situated on the March Air Reserve Base. Many visitors find it a convenient stop between San Diego and Las Vegas.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at the March Field Air Museum.
Absolutely! The museum is open to the public and welcomes all visitors interested in aviation history.
From Los Angeles, you can take the I-215 South towards Riverside. The museum is well-signed from the freeway.
The museum is generally accessible, with large hangars and paved outdoor areas. It's recommended to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are approximately $12 for adults, $10 for veterans, and $6 for children aged 5-11. Children 4 and under, as well as active duty military, are free.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door. However, buying online in advance, especially with a Groupon, can sometimes offer savings.
The museum's hours typically vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Discounts are available for veterans and active duty military personnel. Keep an eye out for potential Groupon deals as well.
Generally, time slot bookings are not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official channels for any changes, especially during peak seasons or special events.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the unique open-cockpit SR-71 Blackbird, the KC-97 Stratotanker, and the impressive Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. The museum boasts over 70 historic military aircraft.
Yes, it's a fantastic place for kids! They can get up close to aircraft, and the museum has engaging displays that even young children find fascinating.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to thoroughly explore the museum and its extensive collection.
While not always explicitly advertised, the knowledgeable staff and volunteers are often happy to chat and share insights about the aircraft.
The SR-71 Blackbird is uniquely displayed with an open cockpit, allowing visitors to get a closer look. Some other aircraft may have accessible areas or viewing points.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at the March Field Air Museum, making it a great spot for aviation enthusiasts and photographers.
The outdoor static displays, especially the SR-71 Blackbird and larger aircraft like the C-17, offer excellent photographic opportunities. The hangar also provides unique interior shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at military installations and museums. It's best to check the museum's specific policies regarding drones before your visit.
While general photography is allowed, it's always wise to be mindful of any specific signage or instructions from museum staff, especially concerning sensitive areas or active base operations.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a telephoto lens for capturing details on the aircraft, would be beneficial. A wide-angle lens can also be useful for the hangar shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Bring snacks and water, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. The museum's engaging exhibits make it an educational and fun experience for all ages.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts & Photographers
+1Photographers will find the museum to be a dream location. The variety of aircraft, from vintage planes to modern jets, offers diverse subjects. The outdoor displays, especially during golden hour, can yield stunning shots. Remember to check the museum's policy on drone usage if you're looking for aerial perspectives.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Look out for potential Groupon deals that can further reduce the cost of entry. Packing your own water and snacks can also help keep overall trip expenses down, making it a budget-friendly day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic SR-71 Blackbird Experience
+1This rare accessibility makes the March Field Air Museum a must-visit for anyone interested in the cutting edge of Cold War-era aviation technology. The chance to see the cockpit of such an iconic aircraft, even if you can't sit in it, provides a tangible connection to the pilots and engineers who pushed the boundaries of flight. The museum's commitment to showcasing this aircraft in such an engaging way is frequently highlighted by visitors.
Exploring the Extensive Aircraft Collection
+2The museum's layout features a large indoor hangar filled with artifacts, exhibits, and smaller aircraft, alongside a vast outdoor display area showcasing the larger planes and helicopters. This dual approach ensures a rich and varied experience for all visitors. The indoor exhibits also delve into related histories, such as the evolution of shortwave radio and electronics, adding another layer of interest beyond just the aircraft themselves.
A Family-Friendly Aviation Adventure
Parents often note how engaged their children become, marveling at the size and design of the planes. The accessible displays, including the open-cockpit SR-71, provide memorable moments for kids. The museum's staff and volunteers are also known for their welcoming attitude, often happy to share stories and answer questions, further enhancing the family experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit