30+ Best Aviation Museums Around The World

Just over a century has passed since the Wright brothers flew the first powered airplane in 1903. In that time, countless artifacts of flight and stories about aviation have been amassed, filling aviation museums around the world. These museums capture the achievements and products of pilots, designers, and engineers who have transformed flight and pushed the boundaries of air and space travel. These are some of the best aviation museums to explore, no matter where in the world you are.

Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum in Denver, Colorado

Airplane at the entrance to the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum on April 23, 2012 in Aurora, Colorado, USA — Adobe Stock

With 182,000 square feet of exhibits on the former Lowry Air Force base, this museum spans the history of U.S. aviation. Highlights include the “Spirit of America – Sonic Arrow,” a jet engine-powered car that reached 675 mph in 1996. The museum also has a satellite location at Denver’s Centennial Airport, showcasing historic aircraft.

Museo del Aire in Madrid, Spain

Hangar 5, Museo del Aire, Madrid — Wikimedia Commons / Benjamín Núñez González / CC 4.0

Located at Cuatro Vientos Airport, this museum features nearly 200 aircraft, telling the story of Spain’s rich aviation history. From the 1910-built Vilanova Acedo to modern Spanish Air Force jets, the exhibits also include a wide range of military technology and weaponry that have been developed alongside the evolving aircraft industry.

Sullenberger Aviation Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina

Beechcraft T34-A at the North Carolina Aviation Museum — Wikimedia Commons / RadioFan/ CC 3.0

Home to the Airbus A320 from the “Miracle on the Hudson,” this museum offers a permanent exhibit on this extraordinary event. Despite its smaller size, it houses around 50 aircraft and is conveniently located on the grounds of Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Visitors can explore various interactive exhibits and learn about aviation history, making it a fascinating destination for all ages.

Palm Springs Air Museum in Palm Springs, California

PSAM 'The Movie' Memphis Belle Escorted In — Wikimedia Commons / PSAM1996 / CC 4.0

Known for its interactive exhibits, this museum allows visitors to climb inside planes, talk to pilots, and even enjoy biplane rides. The museum’s 8,700-volume library includes first-person narratives and books on the China-Burma-India Theater of Operations during World War II. Additionally, visitors can explore a vast collection of historical artifacts, participate in hands-on activities, and attend special events and educational programs throughout the year.