Pearson Air Museum

Pearson Air Museum brings aviation history to life at one of the oldest operating airfields in the nation. Kids can get up close to vintage aircraft, explore interactive exhibits that make learning about flight exciting, and watch actual flight demonstrations from this working airfield,making it a thrilling destination for budding pilots and history buffs alike.

• ✓Vintage aircraft collection including WWI and WWII planes that kids can walk around and examine closely
• ✓Interactive exhibits where children can test aviation principles and learn how planes fly
• ✓Real operating airfield with occasional takeoffs and landings visible from the museum
• ✓Monthly open cockpit days allowing kids to sit in authentic historic aircraft
• ✓Educational programs and scavenger hunts designed specifically for young visitors

1. 1.Visit on open cockpit days (typically second Saturday of the month) when kids can actually climb into select vintage aircraft for an unforgettable hands-on experience
2. 2.Arrive early when doors open at 9 AM for the quietest experience and best photo opportunities with the aircraft
3. 3.Check the museum's calendar before visiting to catch special flight demonstrations or living history events with volunteers in period uniforms
4. 4.Parking is free in the adjacent lot, and the museum is part of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, so you can easily combine your visit with exploring the fort grounds
5. 5.The museum is compact but packed with planes,allow docents to share their stories, as many are aviation enthusiasts with fascinating details kids won't find on exhibit placards

Tuesday through Thursday mornings offer the most relaxed browsing with smaller crowds. Saturday mornings are busier but often feature special programming and the chance to see active airfield operations. Avoid rainy days if you want to explore the outdoor aircraft displays comfortably.

Admission is very affordable at around $5-7 per person (kids under 6 typically free). Free parking is available on-site. The museum has no café, so plan to eat before or after your visit, and strollers are manageable throughout the facility.

The museum is closed Sundays and Mondays year-round. Summer months offer the best weather for enjoying outdoor aircraft displays and airfield watching. Check their calendar for special Memorial Day and Veterans Day programming with enhanced demonstrations and activities.

Head to Beaches Restaurant & Bar (5 minutes away) for casual family dining with a kids menu, or grab burgers and shakes at Burgerville on Mill Plain Boulevard, a Pacific Northwest chain that's always a hit with kids.