The Museum of Flight

Must Do Experiences

• Board the British Airways Concorde and sit in the passenger cabin of the supersonic jet that once crossed the Atlantic in under three hours

• Walk through the first jet-powered Air Force One and imagine the weight of presidential travel

• Stand inside the prototype Boeing 747 and 787 that launched two generations of commercial air travel

• Spot the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest and highest-flying manned aircraft ever built

Hidden Gems

• Visit the Aviation Pavilion early in the day when it's quietest — you'll have the Concorde and 747 almost to yourself

• Don't miss the museum's collection of historic Boeing prototypes hidden in the south hangar, where you can see the aircraft that changed the world

• The museum's rooftop terrace offers rare up-close views of active Boeing factory operations on a clear day

What Makes it Special

• One of the few museums in the world where you can actually board and explore the cockpits and cabins of iconic aircraft including a Concorde and Air Force One

• Built on the original Boeing airfield, giving it an authenticity and historical connection that no other aviation museum can match

• Over 175 aircraft and spacecraft on display, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive air and space museums globally

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Visit on a weekday morning right at opening time for the smallest crowds and the best photos. Summer months offer the longest operating hours, while spring and fall provide a comfortable balance of mild weather and fewer visitors.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• The interior lighting in the Great Gallery is dramatic — use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of suspended aircraft

• The Blackbird and Concorde are best photographed in the morning light when the sun streams through the pavilion windows

• Check if rooftop access is available for exterior shots of the museum against the Seattle skyline

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

The museum caters to aviation enthusiasts of all ages — don't hesitate to ask staff and volunteers their favourite aircraft, as many are passionate former pilots and engineers Photography is generally encouraged but flash may be restricted in certain galleries, so watch for signage

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• AirVenture — annual summer fly-in featuring vintage and modern aircraft performing live demonstrations

• Family Aviation Days — weekend events with flight simulators, hands-on workshops, and meet-the-pilot sessions

• Holiday in the Hangars — seasonal celebration featuring special exhibits, themed tours, and festive activities

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Some aircraft require climbing ladders or narrow stairways — follow all posted safety instructions and supervise children closely

• Keep hands inside the aircraft cabins and do not lean on exhibits, as some displays are delicate historical artifacts

• Stay within designated visitor areas, especially near hangar bays where active aircraft movements may occur