Happy birthday to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force! The world’s oldest and largest military aviation museum - and one of the most-visited free attractions in the state of Ohio - celebrates its 100th Anniversary on May 16, 2023!

"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's going to be an exciting year as we celebrate in style with events and exhibits that will appeal to the whole family."

Above Image: The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force's Patterson Field location in 1958 (Courtesy National Museum of the U.S. Air Force)


Since 1923, the museum has grown from a small Army Air Corps engineering study collection to the world's largest military aviation museum and is a world-renowned center for air and space power technology and culture preservation. The museum is home to countless one-of-a-kind objects. Its once-small engine collection now includes more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles, thousands of artifacts, and spans 19 indoor acres with additional outdoor Air and Memorial Parks that continue to grow every year. 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.

Historical Photo Gallery

Plan Your Visit

The museum's centennial celebration has come to a close, but there's still so much to see and do there - 19 indoor acres and more than 350 aerospace vehicles on display! Plan your visit at their website.

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