Crawford Auto Aviation Museum
About
Rev up your family's imagination at the Crawford Auto Aviation Museum, home to over 170 stunning vintage cars, motorcycles, and aircraft spanning more than a century of transportation history. Kids will be mesmerized by gleaming antique automobiles, classic muscle cars, and real aircraft displayed within the Cleveland History Center, making it perfect for little gearheads and curious minds alike.
Highlights
- ✓The 1932 Peerless V-16 prototype,one of the most luxurious cars ever built
- ✓Vintage motorcycles that fascinate kids with their unique designs
- ✓Historic aircraft suspended from the ceiling creating dramatic photo opportunities
- ✓Classic cars from the 1950s-60s that grandparents love reminiscing about with grandkids
- ✓Interactive displays explaining how engines and vehicles evolved over time
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Thursday evenings (open until 8:00 PM) for smaller crowds and a more relaxed browsing experience with your kids
- 2.Download the Cleveland History Center's app beforehand for interactive scavenger hunts that keep younger children engaged throughout the visit
- 3.Allow time to explore the broader Cleveland History Center campus,your admission includes access to multiple museums and the beautiful Wade Oval gardens
- 4.Bring a camera for photo ops,kids love posing next to the vintage cars and aircraft, and photography is encouraged
- 5.The museum is stroller-friendly with elevators, making it easy to navigate with younger children
Best Time to Visit
Saturday or Sunday mornings right at 10:00 AM opening offer the quietest experience, or visit Thursday afternoons when it's less crowded than weekends. Spring and fall are ideal as you can also enjoy the surrounding University Circle cultural attractions and outdoor spaces.
What to Know
The Crawford Museum is part of the Cleveland History Center with combined admission (check website for family rates and free days). Free parking is available on-site, and there's a café in the building for snacks, though options are limited.
Seasonal Notes
Closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday year-round, so plan accordingly. The museum occasionally hosts special vintage car shows and family events during summer months,check their calendar for bonus activities during your visit.
Nearby Eats
Tommy's in Coventry (10-minute drive) is a beloved local spot with creative menu options and a kids' menu in a casual atmosphere. The Jolly Scholar on the Case Western Reserve campus offers pub food including burgers, pizza, and a family-friendly patio.
More Activities Near Cleveland
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Plaza
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame isn't just for music buffs,it's a hands-on playground where kids can unleash their inner rockstar! The interactive exhibits let children play real instruments, experience recording studios, and see iconic memorabilia from Elvis to modern artists. The lakefront location also offers beautiful views and outdoor space to burn off energy between exhibits.
The Cleveland Museum of Art
The Cleveland Museum of Art offers an exceptional (and completely free!) cultural experience for families, featuring over 45,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years. With dedicated family programs, interactive gallery activities, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages exploration, this world-class museum makes art accessible and exciting for even the youngest visitors.
The Children's Museum of Cleveland
Housed in a beautifully restored historic mansion, The Children's Museum of Cleveland offers seven imaginative play areas specifically designed for babies, toddlers, and young children up to age 8. This intimate, hands-on museum focuses on early childhood development through creative play, making it an ideal destination for families with little ones who might feel overwhelmed at larger attractions.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is a hands-on wonderland where kids can come face-to-face with towering T-Rex skeletons, explore the cosmos in the planetarium, and meet live native Ohio animals at the wildlife center. With interactive exhibits spanning dinosaurs, gems, human origins, and local ecosystems, this museum keeps children engaged and learning without even realizing it.