Fly-in: Visit the PNW's Historical Air and Space Museums

Journey to the Pacific Northwest's Premier Air and Space Museums

As an aviation enthusiast, there's nothing quite like the thrill of discovering the rich history and marveling at the technological advancements of flight. The Pacific Northwest, renowned for its natural beauty and pioneering spirit, is also home to some of the most remarkable air and space museums in the world. From Seattle's bustling aviation hub to the tranquil fields of McMinnville, each museum offers a unique glimpse into the world of flight. Imagine hopping in your own airplane and taking off on an exciting journey to explore these fascinating destinations, each with its own story to tell and treasures to reveal.

The Adventure Begins: Seattle Museum of Flight

Our journey starts in Seattle, Washington, where the illustrious Museum of Flight awaits. Known as one of the largest air and space museums globally, it boasts an impressive collection that spans the history of aviation and space exploration. From the iconic Boeing 747 to the sleek Concorde, the museum's exhibits are a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for the skies.

From Auburn Municipal, take off and depart west bound to Point Defiance, then north to Blake Island to fly the Blake Island approach to Boeing Field International Airport (KBFI). There are five general aviation transient parking spaces for visitors.

S50 to KBFI -- Distance: 29nm. ETE: 0h, 12m.

Soaring to McMinnville: Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum

Next, we'll head south to McMinnville, Oregon, home to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. This museum is famed for housing the Spruce Goose, Howard Hughes's colossal wooden aircraft. Beyond the Spruce Goose, the museum offers an array of military and civilian aircraft and an intriguing collection of space artifacts.

S50 to KMMV -- Distance: 134nm. ETE: 0h, 54m.

A Historical Touchdown in Vancouver: Pearson Air Museum

Our flight plan then takes us to Vancouver, Washington, where the Pearson Air Museum resides on one of America's oldest operating airfields. The museum provides a captivating look at early aviation history and the pivotal role this airfield played in both military and civilian aviation.

Use caution navigating the KPDX class C airspace.

S50 to KVUO -- Distance: 104nm. ETE: 0h, 42m.

Off to Olympia: Olympic Flight Museum

In Olympia, Washington, the Olympic Flight Museum awaits with its impressive collection of vintage military aircraft. Known for its annual air show, this museum brings history to life with its flyable warbirds and interactive displays.

Use caution for the Rainier MOA and Restricted areas around the JBLM airports as well as the Class D KTIW at Tacoma Narrows.

S50 to KOLM -- Distance: 51nm. ETE: 0h, 20m.

Exploring Paine's Treasures: Flying Heritage and Combat Armor Museum

The journey continues to Paine Field, to visit the Flying Heritage and Combat Armor Museum. Here, restored aircraft from the late 1920s to the early 1950s take center stage along with vintage military equipment like tanks and armored vehicles, offering visitors a chance to experience the golden age of aviation and reflect on the causes of war.

From S50, fly NE and dogleg around the KRNT Class D airspace, then direct to KPAE.

S50 to KPAE -- Distance 41nm. ETE: 0h, 16m.

Discovering Tillamook Air Museum

Our adventure wouldn't be complete without a stop in Tillamook, Oregon. The Tillamook Air Museum, housed in a massive World War II blimp hangar, offers a unique setting to explore a wide variety of vintage aircraft and military vehicles.

Pack your tent and sleeping bag and camp on the airport, then go visit the cheese factory and Tillamook's sandy beaches.

S50 to KTMK -- Distance: 132nm. ETE: 0h, 53m.

A Heritage of Flight in the Skagit Valley: Heritage Flight Museum

In Burlington, Washington, the Heritage Flight Museum, founded by astronaut William Anders, focuses on the preservation and operation of historic military aircraft. This museum's collection and events make it a must-visit for aviation aficionados.

S50 to KBVS -- Distance: 73nm. ETE: 0h, 27m.

Antique Wonders in Hood River

Finally, let's touch down in Hood River, Oregon, to explore the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum. This museum's extensive collection of antique airplanes and automobiles emphasizes the preservation and operation of vintage vehicles, providing a fitting end to our aerial odyssey.

And get the added bonus of the wonder of flying past Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Adams!

S50 to K4S4 -- Distance: 103nm. ETE 0h 40m.

Whether you're an aviation history buff, a technology enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, these destinations promise a journey filled with scenic wonder and discovery.