One of the most popular attractions to be found in Balboa Park, the San Diego Air & Space Museum was first opened in 1963. Since then it has been drawing visitors from all over to learn about the world of aviation.
With dozens of aircraft on display, you can see a hot air balloon that dates back to 1783 through to the command module used by NASA on its Apollo 9 mission to the Moon. You’ll even get to see a model of the bright red Lockheed Vega flown by Amelia Earhart, which featured in the 2009 film about her life.
There are many exhibits dedicated to planes from the two World Wars, as well as aircraft that date back to the Golden Age of Flight. Along these classic aircraft you can see more modern planes in the Modern Jet and Space Age Gallery.
The museum hosts monthly family fun days in the Education Centre in the Edwin D. McKellar Pavilion of Flight, where kids can build their own gliders or mini hot air balloons. Find out more at the ticket desk or the Balboa Park Visitor Centre.
The museum also offers hands-on experiences with simulators that take you to the moon, let you fly on a jetpack or even go to Mars. Simulator rides cost extra.
You could spend hours here, however if you are only staying for a brief visit then head for the Theodore Gildred Rotunda where you’ll find a great exhibition of smaller planes. The San Diego Air & Space Museum is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas, with extended opening hours in the summer.
