As the Sunshine State’s official aviation museum, the Florida Air Museum offers something for everyone. This Lakeland gem will deliver hours of fun and exploration for the whole family. When looking for great things to do in Lakeland, do not miss the chance to dive deep into the history of aviation in Florida at this immersive museum.
What to Expect to See at the Museum: The Florida Air Museum is proud to offer a diverse collection of vintage aircraft. The focal point of the exhibits is the personal aircraft collection of aviation pioneer Howard R. Hughes. Pieces include his iconic flight suit and an oxygen mask that he took with him on his global flight.
In addition to this vast collection of artifacts, the museum also features a number of exhibits that detail the history of flight in the state. Visitors will also learn more about how locals influenced the aviation industry over the years.
Warcraft Collections: History enthusiasts will delight in the extensive collection of warcraft housed at the museum. The naval collection includes a variety of commercial, military, and experimental aircraft. Be sure to take time to check out the F-14 Tomcat and the full-scale replica of the legendary Wright Flyer.
About Your Visit: The Florida Air Museum is conveniently located on the SUN ‘n FUN campus. This campus is just to the southwest of Lakeland Linder International Airport. While the museum is generally open seven days per week, it will close occasionally for private events. Be sure to check the website or call for the latest operating hours.
General admission ticket prices are $15 for adults and $10 for youth ages 11 – 17. Kids 10 and under and active military will receive free admission. There are also discounted rates for seniors and retired military members. If you are local, you may want to consider purchasing an annual membership, giving you access to the exhibits at the museum as well as discounted admission to SUN ‘n FUN.
While there are no dining options onsite at the museum, you will find a variety of eateries at the nearby Lakeside Village, ranging from casual breweries to upscale restaurants.
Focus on Education: In addition to delivering an informative and entertaining experience every time that you visit, the Florida Air Museum is also committed to educating others about the aviation industry. The museum boasts a partnership with the Aerospace Center for Excellence, also located on the SUN ‘n FUN Expo campus. The two work together to support the education and engagement of the next generation of aviation experts and aerospace professionals. This mission is achieved with a focus on developing interactive STEM exhibits and a discovery area that encourages families to learn more about the exciting world of aerospace.
From interactive exhibits to historic pieces of aircraft, a visit to the Florida Air Museum will not disappoint.