Immerse yourself in the rich history of aviation and space exploration at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Nestled in McMinnville, Oregon, this remarkable museum is home to an extensive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and exhibits that tell the story of human flight and the quest to reach the stars. In this article, we'll delve into the museum's offerings, admission details, and why a visit to this aviation and space gem should be on your bucket list.
About the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum was founded in 1991 by Delford "Del" Smith, a local businessman and aviation enthusiast. The museum's mission is to preserve and share the history of aviation and space exploration, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in these fields. With its impressive collection and interactive exhibits, the museum has become a premier destination for aviation and space history in the Pacific Northwest.
Exhibits and Collections
The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum boasts an extensive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and exhibits that span the history of human flight and space exploration. Here's a sneak peek into some of the must-see attractions:
- Spruce Goose: The museum's crown jewel is the Hughes H-4 Hercules, better known as the Spruce Goose. This massive wooden flying boat, designed by Howard Hughes, is the largest wooden aircraft ever built and one of the few flying boats capable of carrying heavy bombers.
- Space Shuttle Exhibit: Explore the history of the U.S. space program with a full-scale replica of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, complete with a mock mission control center and interactive exhibits about the people and technology behind the shuttle program.
- World War II Aviation: Dive into the history of World War II aviation with a collection of vintage aircraft, including a P-38 Lightning, a P-51 Mustang, and a B-17 Flying Fortress.
- Civilian Aviation: Discover the evolution of civilian aviation through a collection of aircraft that span the decades, from the early days of flight to modern airliners.
Admission and Tickets
Admission to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is affordably priced, making it an accessible destination for visitors of all ages. Here's a breakdown of admission fees:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (18-61) | $23 |
| Senior (62+) | $20 |
| Child (5-17) | $16 |
| Child (4 and under) | Free |
| Military (with ID) | Free |
Discounted tickets are available for groups of 15 or more, and the museum offers combination tickets with the nearby Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum Water Park. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to save time and money.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, consider the following tips:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the museum's extensive collection. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours to fully appreciate all the exhibits.
- Check the museum's website or call ahead for information about special events, such as aircraft flyovers or living history demonstrations, which can enhance your visit.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the museum's hangars and exhibits.
- Take advantage of the museum's guided tours, offered daily, to gain insights into the history and significance of the aircraft and exhibits.
The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is more than just a collection of aircraft and spacecraft; it's a testament to human ingenuity, innovation, and the unquenchable desire to explore the skies and beyond. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a space history buff, or simply looking for a fun and educational day out, the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is an experience not to be missed.
