Cradle of Aviation Museum

The Cradle of Aviation Museum brings Long Island's rich aerospace history to life with over 75 air and spacecraft that kids can see up close. From real lunar modules to hands-on flight simulators and an IMAX theater, this interactive museum transforms learning about aviation into an exciting adventure that will have your little pilots dreaming of the skies.

• ✓Actual Apollo Lunar Module (LM-13) that was built for moon missions
• ✓Interactive flight simulators where kids can pilot aircraft
• ✓IMAX dome theater with rotating science and space films
• ✓Replica Wright Brothers Flyer and other historic aircraft you can view up close
• ✓Hands-on exhibits in the Learning Center including rocket building activities

1. 1.Purchase combination tickets online in advance to save money on museum admission plus IMAX,the dome theater shows are a huge hit with kids and worth the add-on.
2. 2.Head straight to the flight simulators when you arrive as lines build up by late morning, especially on weekends.
3. 3.Don't miss the Red Planet Café on the lower level for reasonably-priced lunch,bring snacks for younger kids as options are somewhat limited.
4. 4.The Jet Blue Foundation hangar has climbing structures inside actual aircraft that kids can explore,it's a hidden gem many visitors overlook.
5. 5.Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning for the smallest crowds and a more relaxed experience exploring the exhibits.

Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) from 10 AM-noon offer the lightest crowds, making it easier to access simulators and explore at your own pace. Avoid weekend afternoons when school groups and birthday parties pack the museum. Winter is ideal for this indoor attraction.

General admission is around $16 for adults and $13 for children (IMAX extra). Free parking is available on-site. The museum has a small café, but you may want to pack snacks for younger children. The facility is stroller-friendly and ADA accessible.

Open year-round except Mondays and major holidays. Summer can be crowded with camp groups, especially July. The museum hosts special events during school breaks including astronaut meet-and-greets and aviation-themed workshops,check their calendar online. Perfect rainy day or winter activity.

Roosevelt Field Mall (5 minutes away) has a large food court with kid favorites including Chick-fil-A and Shake Shack. For sit-down dining, try Garden City's Franklin Avenue which has several family-friendly options like Cheeseburger Baby and pizzerias within 10 minutes of the museum.