patuxent river naval air museum

Dymaxionpz

A large number of indoor and outdoor exhibits are still open while the new section is being built closer to Three Notch Road. I like the history and one-of-a-kind articles, and the simulators are neat too. Usually plenty of parking.

tayoka

There were kiosks with videos at several stations which was good because the museum isn't heavily staffed. The model airplane displays are nice and give you almost a chronological view of how aeronautics and airplanes have advanced and changed in design over the years. The flight simulators are the best part. The only thing is that they don't tell you about the flight simulators and the minimal cost to try it until you actually get all the way in the back of the museum. Pay for the flight simulator at the door its worth it and it will save you a trip back to the gift store to purchase a ticket. Its not likely that I'll go again however, I would recommend going at least once. The proceeds benefit the museum and military families.

Razzierb

Best part of the museum was the outdoor aircraft display. If memory serves there are 20+ aircraft on display including a couple of experimental designs that helped our military get to what the F35 has eventually become. I always enjoy looking at war birds.The inside part of the museum is a little tired with no clear theme to the contents. I was on vacation and enjoyed my time at the museum, but if it had been a destination trip, I would have been disappointed. The museum is in the midst of a building program, so perhaps that will make things more interesting once the addition is complete.

ichab0dc

Great displays of items of naval aviation significance. Probably not of much interest to those not associated or interested in naval aviation. The new museum building is now under construction and so in the not too distant future all of the exhibits and more will be in a new modern and updated display area that will greatly add to its interest. Current exhibits can be seen in less than an hour, but don't miss the outside display of Navy aircraft from years gone by.

stingerjeep

We're new to the area, so we decided to take a Saturday morning to acquaint ourselves with the local attractions. We almost missed the museum because of the construction of the new facility right in front of the old metal building that serves as the museum now. Once we got inside, however, we were blown away by the quality and quantity of the exhibits and memorabilia showcasing navy and naval air history of the area! The vintage jets on exhibit outside are visible from the road, but walking right up to them really gives one the experience of the power and history associated with these venerable old planes. Admission is paid inside the museum on the "honor system" and there isn't a lot of staff available to answer questions, etc., but when we went into the gift shop a nice lady came out to help us and we had a great visit with some interesting background info about the new building. Take the family for a fun and educational experience!

BeckyinWashington

Kids will love the flight simulator. Adults will enjoy seeing the planes. Looking forward to the new building!

FrankV899

this place is filled with so many things to look at and do that it keeps you very busy and looking for more . the planes outside are great to see up close and you feel that you are a part of the navy . one place that you have to see .

Adventuring2013

Whether you enjoy military history, aviation or simply want to experience the evolution of a great attraction, take time to visit. The static displays of the aircraft make the stop worthwhile.

puckduvall

What was on display was interesting. I was saddened the simulators were down. There is a new museum under construction and we will be back to visit when the whole collection is on display.

Stewfoot

This is a very specialized museum.If you are into the history of test and development of Navy aircraft, this museum is for you. This is not a general aviation museum (the Smithsonian Areospace) or even Naval Aviation like the one at Pensecola. This is the Test and Development. But the docents know their business well.

DanaJack2012

I took our boys to the museum last Fall. The outdoor area is very intriguing for a defense family. You can actually touch the jets and get a feel for their size and power. The inside museum holds a plethora of information that is full of surprise and knowledge. The simulators are great fun. Watch out for motion sickness. A great value for the money. Well worth seeing.

MegC875

This would be a good place to take kids, although there are a lot of exhibits that aren't under glass, so you'll want to watch them! Everything that we saw was interesting. The best part was the outside planes and helicopters. They had a flight simulator, but it was closed. Once they finish their new building I would be interested in going back again.

wldchic869

Went here to kill some time on a rainy day. They did their best but it could use some funding and renovation. Can't ask for much from a free museum. The planes outside were the best part of the day. It was neat to see them up close and personal.

sondwy

Our 8 year old son thoroughly enjoyed it. He had the opportunity to do the flight simulator, which he enjoyed immensely. You could easily spend several hours at the museum, inside and out. Lots of parking.

Gregoogle

This was a good place to take the kids and show them first hand what happens on the PAX Naval Air Station. We got to see how they train in the flight simulators, as well as the planes that are used in the Navy. There is a lot of good information here and the kids enjoyed it!