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Museum · Santa Maria, California
Santa Maria Museum of Flight
Aviation museum at the north end of Santa Maria Airport, housed in two hangars: one covering early flight, the other covering aviation from World War II onward, with aircraft also on the ramp.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Santa Maria Museum of Flight
The Santa Maria Museum of Flight is at the north end of Santa Maria Public Airport, which served as a U.S. Army air base during World War II and hosted B-25 bombers. Founded in 1984, the museum tells the story of aviation and the Central Coast’s contribution to flight.
Exhibits occupy two hangars. One was built for filming Disney’s The Rocketeer at the airport and holds the collection covering early aviation up to the start of World War II, including a full-size replica of the Wright brothers’ 1902 glider. The other houses aircraft and exhibits from the war period onward.
On the ramp between the hangars are larger aircraft, such as an F-4 Phantom fighter. The collection also includes scale models, space-age artifacts and a fragment of the space shuttle Challenger.
Volunteers often guide visitors and share the story of the aircraft and the former base.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours.
Best time
Friday through Sunday are the days the museum is typically open. Check hours before you go.
How to get there
It’s on Airpark Drive in the airport area, about 6 km south of downtown Santa Maria. You can reach it by car or taxi.
Tip
Pair the visit with a Saturday morning and save the afternoon for the city historical museum, which opens after midday.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Santa Maria Museum of Flight
What can you see at the Santa Maria Museum of Flight?
Aircraft and replicas in two hangars, from a replica of the Wright brothers’ glider to World War II and later aviation, plus larger aircraft on the ramp.
Which days is the Santa Maria aviation museum open?
It is usually open Friday through Sunday. Check before you go.
What is the museum’s connection to the film "The Rocketeer"?
One of the museum’s hangars was built for the filming of the Disney movie, which was shot at Santa Maria airport.