100th Anniversary of the
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
2023 marks the 100th Anniversary of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the world’s oldest and largest military aviation museum.
The museum will commemorate this major milestone with events and exhibits that celebrate its humble beginnings as a small engine study lab at McCook field and through its growth to more than 19 indoor acres housing more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts. The museum’s vast collection highlights the evolution of flight and the history and establishment of the U.S. Air Force as an independent service. Today, the museum is a world-renowned center for air and space power technology and culture preservation.
“Celebrating 100 years is a significant milestone in the history of any museum,” said National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Historian Doug Lantry. “The growth we have experienced over the last century is directly attributed to the Air Force’s wise commitment to preserving its heritage and the tremendous support we receive from our local, national, and international communities. It will be an exciting year as we celebrate in style with events and exhibits that will appeal to the whole family.”
The following are just some of the planned events and exhibits as the museum celebrates its centennial. Additional events will be added throughout the year at https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/.
The featured event in March is Kite Week. The public will be invited to bring their kites out to the museum’s front lawn. Bring the family and pack a picnic lunch to make a day of this unique opportunity.
Centennial Exhibit opens May 20. The museum has aged well over the last 100 years, and this new exhibit in the Cold War Gallery will give visitors a glimpse into our history and the people that made it all possible.
The Planes, Trains, and Automobiles model event will be a major summer event. A diverse array of unique model aircraft, locomotives, and motor vehicles will be featured against the museum’s impressive aircraft displays.
And in the fall, come check out “Discover Steampunk.”
Oh, and general admission and parking are free!
Visit National Museum of the USAF for updated information.
