MUSEUM OF FLYING 

2772 Donald Douglas Loop North 
Santa Monica
(310) 392-8822

Located at the Santa Monica Airport on 2772 Donald Douglas Loop North in Santa Monica, California, this museum is definitely worth a visit. Both adults and children will enjoy many elements of this ten year old museum. Built at the site where the Douglas Aircraft Company manufactured, tested and produced military and commercial aircraft for forty-six years, visitors of this unique, non-profit museum can see a rare collection of civilian and military aircraft through World War II. These include fighter planes, "war-birds," the popular "DC-3". Notably, the majority of the displayed aircraft are in flight-ready condition.

There are three large floors in which to explore and learn about the museum’s honorable mission: to promote education about the history of aviation and to inspire courage and lofty achievement up in the skies or not. Currently, both kids and their parents are rewarded at the Museum of Flying through what is known as the "A’s Award Program". Kids in grades K-12 who bring a report card with an "A" in any academic subject are given a ride on a glider plane for up to a half an hour, which no other museum guests are permitted on! When accompanied by their parents, these students are entitled to a free admission into the museum, a free (otherwise $2) ride on the multi-vehicular "simulator" ride in the kids area of the museum and the free glider ride. It is important to verify flight schedules by calling in advance. Pilot availability and weather conditions are subject to change. Reservations to participate in the "A’s Award" glider ride program are taken at (310) 392-8822, extension 531. This is a great way for kids to find out one way in which their hard work in school is rewarded. It is also a great way for a museum to embrace their mission.

The volunteer docents of the museum have extensive experience in both manufacturing and piloting the aircraft on display. Guided tours are available. Museum visitors can also visit the adjacent DC-3 restaurant, which completes a rewarding day to a fun museum. In this elegant dressy/casual atmosphere, the fare includes Pan-Pacific and American cuisine as prepared by an award-winning, four star chef. Actress Gywynneth Paltrow was the hostess here prior to her Oscar-winning days. From your table you may witness aircraft take off and land from the Santa Monica Airport. This makes an afternoon guided or independent tour of parked airplanes come to life. The museum gift shop is open during regular business hours and offers books and gifts for aviation fans of all ages.

Visit the Museum of Flying from Wednesday through Sunday from ten to five . The museum is closed on holidays. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $3 for children. Call (310) 392-8822 for more information or to make a group reservation.