There is a lot to do in San Diego for tourists and residents alike. If you are interested in aeronautics, the city has a rich history and the airplane museums to prove it. Museum collections feature military and civilian aircraft, including flight simulators, working models and restorations.
This museum covers military history, specifically World War II. The USS Midway was one of the United States' longest-serving aircraft carriers. Visitors are encouraged to imagine life at sea as they tour the most-visited floating ship museum in the world. Exhibits include 25 restored aircraft and a variety of flight simulators. Overnight stays for families or groups are available.
If your interests lean more toward the great beyond of space, the San Diego Air and Space Museum is for you. Located inside the historic Ford Building, the museum houses an extensive library that includes a photo archive and an online International Air & Space Hall of Fame. Exhibits cover the history of flight, beginning with the first balloon flights and continuing to present-day attempts to reach the stars.
This museum is every bit as unique as its name implies. Dedicated to the preservation, restoration and display of artifacts that recall the history of Marine Corps aviation in San Diego, this is the only official Marine Corps aviation museum in the western United States. The museum's timeline begins with the arrival of the first military aircraft in 1940 at Miramar Air Station and continues to the present day.
If you would prefer a more realistic, hands-on experience that includes interaction with experienced pilots and mechanics, visit the California Flight Museum. This is not a conventional museum, but rather one that sponsors lectures, participates in aerodynamic research, restores and maintains historic aircraft and features static and flying displays.
