The Experimental Aircraft Association is a non-profit organization that promotes aviation enthusiasts and activities. An EAA membership comes with free admission to nearly 400 museums and science centers around the world through the ASTC Travel Passport Program. A number of those museums are located at or adjacent to airports, making them fun destinations to fly into. Here's a list of those museums in the United States.
Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum
Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (KAZO)
Portage, Michigan
Air Zoo is an immersive experience that combines aviation history with thrilling exhibits and rides. The museum boasts a collection of over 100 aircraft--from World War II fighter planes to modern jets--and offers 3D full motion flight simulators. You can even get up in the air at the indoor amusement park, whose rides include the Century of Flight Ferris Wheel, Montgolfier Balloon Race, and the Flying Circus Biplane Ride.
Parking is available for GA aircraft at the Flight Discovery Center.
College Park Aviation Museum
College Park, Maryland
This Smithsonian-affiliated museum is located at the world's oldest continuously operating airport. Its collection highlights the significant contributions of College Park Airport to aviation history. The museum's small but historic collection includes a Wright Flyer.
College Park Airport is located within the Washington, D.C. Flight Restricted Zone. Ensure that you are familiar with the requirements and procedures before flying in or out of the area.
Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
McMinnville Municipal Airport (KMMV)
McMinnville, Oregon
The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is renowned for its impressive collection of aviation and space artifacts. Home to the famous Spruce Goose, the largest wooden airplane ever built, the museum also showcases a wide array of military and civilian aircraft, space exploration exhibits, and educational programs. An adjacent waterpark make it the perfect full-day destination.
Museum of Flight
Boeing Field / King County International Airport (KBFI)
Seattle, Washington
The Museum of Flight is one of the largest private air and space museums in the world. It features over 175 aircraft and spacecraft, including the first Boeing 747, a Concorde, and a Space Shuttle Trainer. The museum offers interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and educational programs that provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the history and future of aviation and space exploration.
Parking is available on-site for GA aircraft.
Owls Head Transportation Museum
Knox County Regional Airport (KRKD)
Owls Head, Maine
Owls Head Transportation Museum focuses on the history of transportation, featuring an extensive collection of aircraft, automobiles, bicycles, and engines. The museum's aviation exhibits include vintage aircraft from the early 20th century, many of which are still operational and flown during special events.
Southern Museum of Flight
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (KBHM)
Birmingham, Alabama
The Southern Museum of Flight highlights the rich aviation history of the southern United States. The museum's collection includes military and civilian aircraft, helicopter exhibits, and an extensive display of aviation memorabilia. Knowledgable tour guides tailor their tours to your interests, including Alabama aviation history, Black history, the Tuskegee Airmen, aviation carriers, and wars.
Michigan Museum of Flight (formerly Yankee Air Museum)
Belleville, Michigan
The Michigan Museum of Flight, formerly known as the Yankee Air Museum, preserves the rich aviation history of the region. The Smithsonian-affiliated museum features an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, including World War II bombers and fighter planes, as well as exhibits on aviation technology and history. The museum also offers flight experiences in historic aircraft, including B-17, B-25, and C-47.