Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Moton Field
Explore Moton Field, the historic training ground of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, America's first Black military pilots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Moton Field
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Moton Field, the historic training ground of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, America's first Black military pilots.
"Very educational and a true honor to observe the exceptional service these military citizens provided for our country."
Beat the Heat!
Hangars get very hot. Visit in cooler months or early/late in the day. Bring water! :droplet:
Start with the Film
The 30-min intro film is a must-watch for context before exploring exhibits. :movie_camera:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hangar 1: The Foundation
Moton Field
Explore the 'nuts and bolts' of the Tuskegee Airmen's training and operations. Essential for understanding their journey.
Hangar 2: Accomplishments & Red Tails
Moton Field
Discover the triumphs of the Tuskegee Airmen, including a P-51 Mustang with the iconic red tail.
Introductory Film
Visitor Center
A 30-minute film provides an excellent overview of the Tuskegee Airmen's inspiring story and legacy.
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Planning Your Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beat the Heat!
Hangars get very hot. Visit in cooler months or early/late in the day. Bring water! :droplet:
Start with the Film
The 30-min intro film is a must-watch for context before exploring exhibits. :movie_camera:
Support the History
Visiting helps preserve the legacy of these heroes. Consider a donation or visit the gift shop. :gift:
Don't Miss the Red Tails
See the iconic P-51 Mustang, a symbol of the Tuskegee Airmen's bravery. :fighter_jet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Beat the Heat!
Hangars get very hot. Visit in cooler months or early/late in the day. Bring water! :droplet:
Start with the Film
The 30-min intro film is a must-watch for context before exploring exhibits. :movie_camera:
Support the History
Visiting helps preserve the legacy of these heroes. Consider a donation or visit the gift shop. :gift:
Don't Miss the Red Tails
See the iconic P-51 Mustang, a symbol of the Tuskegee Airmen's bravery. :fighter_jet:
Learn the Double V
Understand their fight for victory abroad and at home against racism. :raised_hands:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the educational exhibits and the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen, highlighting the helpfulness of the National Park Service staff. However, some note a lack of artifacts beyond aircraft and mention that the hangars can become uncomfortably hot in warmer weather.
"The site was not crowded when I visited. The staff were very friendly. The site was clean and well maintained. The exhibits do a great job presenting the information. The hands-on exhibits were nice. The gift shop was closed due to construction today. It is very interesting, and I recommend it. Would visit again some time."
Caryn Dennison
"We really enjoyed our visit to the Tuskegee Airmen Museum. The layout was great and easy to follow and the exhibits were both educational and informative. National Park Service employees at the Museum were available, knowledgeable, and helpful. The Museum has a gift shop and plenty of parking."
Dr. CH R
"I was down in the area visiting Family who is attending Auburn. I went to the airport to see the story area that I had read about. It was easy to find, but was very disappointed. It wasn’t open due to the federal shut down. I was able to walk around the grounds and read some of the placards, but it was a bummer not to go inside and see all of the displays. Don’t know when I’ll get back there, but hopefully it’ll be open next time."
PJ K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The site is located at Moton Field in Tuskegee, Alabama. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors include it as a stop on a road trip through the region. Check the official National Park Service website for the most current directions and any potential road closures.
Public transportation options directly to the historic site are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are in the immediate Tuskegee area, but confirm availability beforehand.
The site consists of Moton Field, which includes Hangar 1 and Hangar 2, and a visitor center. It's recommended to start at the visitor center for the introductory film and then explore the hangars. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking between buildings.
The closest major airport is Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM), about an hour's drive away. From there, you would need to rent a car or arrange for transportation to Tuskegee.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic stop for history buffs and families on a road trip through Alabama. Many visitors find it takes about an hour to an hour and a half to fully experience the site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site is generally free. However, it's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for any updates on admission policies or special event fees.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. Typically, the visitor center and hangars are open during daytime hours, but it's crucial to check the official NPS website for the most current hours of operation before your visit.
No advance booking is usually required for general admission, as the site is free to enter. However, if you are planning a group visit or a special event, it's advisable to contact the site management in advance.
The gift shop is usually open during the site's operating hours. However, there may be temporary closures for construction or other reasons, as noted by some visitors. Check ahead if the gift shop is a priority for your visit.
The site occasionally hosts special events, ranger-led programs, or film screenings. Keep an eye on the official NPS website or their social media for announcements about upcoming activities. Some local aviation museums also host related events.
🎫 🛩️ Onsite Experience
You can explore two main hangars at Moton Field, featuring exhibits on the Tuskegee Airmen's training, their P-51 Mustang aircraft, and their significant contributions to aviation and civil rights. The visitor center offers an introductory film.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours at the site, allowing time for the film and exploring both hangars. Some may spend longer if they are deeply interested in military history.
Unfortunately, the hangars are not consistently air-conditioned, and can become very hot, especially during summer months. Visitors are advised to visit during cooler weather or at cooler times of the day.
Yes, the site often features hands-on exhibits designed to engage younger visitors and make the history more accessible and interactive.
The 'Red Tails' refers to the distinctive red paint on the tails of the P-51 Mustang fighter planes flown by the Tuskegee Airmen. This iconic imagery is a symbol of their bravery and distinction in combat.+1
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted within the public areas of the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site for personal use. Be mindful of any specific restrictions in certain exhibit areas.
The P-51 Mustang aircraft in Hangar 2, the exterior of the historic hangars at Moton Field, and any preserved training equipment offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the red tail of the Mustang is a must.
Absolutely! The aircraft, particularly the P-51 Mustang, are major highlights and make for excellent photographs. Ensure you maintain a safe distance from exhibits as instructed.
As with most National Park Service sites, drone usage is typically prohibited to protect the historic integrity of the site and for visitor safety. Always check the official NPS regulations regarding drones.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more dramatic lighting for exterior shots of Moton Field. Inside the hangars, lighting conditions will vary, so be prepared with your camera settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
📚 History Buffs & Civil Rights Advocates
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen
Beyond their combat achievements, the Tuskegee Airmen also won the first-ever U.S. Air Force Top Gun competition in 1949, a fact that has gained more recognition in recent years.
Visiting the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site at Moton Field offers a tangible connection to this vital piece of American history. It's a place to honor their courage, understand their struggles, and celebrate their enduring legacy of excellence and perseverance. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the 'Double V' campaign – victory against the Axis powers abroad and victory against racism at home.
Navigating Moton Field: Visitor Experience
Hangar 1 focuses on the 'nuts and bolts' of the training operations, detailing the logistical and technical aspects of preparing these pilots for combat. Hangar 2 delves into the accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen, showcasing their bravery in battle and their significant contributions. This hangar notably houses a P-51 Mustang, the iconic aircraft flown by the Red Tails, allowing visitors to see up close the planes that symbolized their prowess.
It's important to note that the hangars can get extremely hot, especially during warmer months, as they lack robust climate control.
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