Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
About
Home to Howard Hughes' legendary Spruce Goose, the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is a paradise for kids fascinated by flight and space exploration. Children can explore over 200 aircraft and spacecraft, climb into cockpits, experience flight simulators, and get hands-on with interactive exhibits that bring aviation history to life in an exciting, kid-friendly way.
Highlights
- ✓Standing beneath the massive Spruce Goose, the largest wooden airplane ever built
- ✓Hands-on flight simulators that let kids experience piloting different aircraft
- ✓Climbing into real cockpits and exploring multiple aircraft up close
- ✓The Space Museum with lunar landing exhibits, spacecraft, and interactive displays
- ✓IMAX theater showing educational aviation and space films
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at 10:00 AM opening to beat crowds and have the best access to popular flight simulators without long waits
- 2.Don't miss walking beneath the massive Spruce Goose,kids are amazed by its size, and it's the museum's crown jewel
- 3.Pack snacks and use the picnic areas outside, as on-site food options are limited and can be pricey
- 4.The museum has both aviation and space buildings,plan to explore both as they're connected and included in admission
- 5.Check the website for special events like astronaut meet-and-greets or cockpit days when kids can climb into even more aircraft
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) are least crowded, giving kids more one-on-one time with exhibits and simulators. Summer can be busy with tourists, so spring and fall offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
What to Know
Admission prices vary by package (aviation-only or combined aviation/space), with discounts for children. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with wide pathways between aircraft. Food options are limited to a small café, so consider eating in nearby McMinnville before or after your visit.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. The indoor exhibits make it perfect for rainy Oregon days. Check their calendar for special holiday events and themed programs during school breaks.
Nearby Eats
McMinnville's Third Street (downtown) is just 10 minutes away with family favorites like Pura Vida Cocina for Mexican food or Community Plate for burgers and comfort food. For a quick bite, Panini Bakery offers sandwiches and treats kids enjoy.
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