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Moffett Field Museum: A Journey Through Aviation History

Explore the captivating history of naval aviation, airship technology, and space exploration at Moffett Field Museum, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley's Moffett Federal Airfield.

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The Moffett Field Museum, nestled within the historic Moffett Federal Airfield in Mountain View, California, offers a captivating journey through the annals of aviation and space exploration. Located a stone's throw from the iconic Hangar One, once home to the USS Macon airship, the museum showcases the evolution of flight from the early days of naval aviation to the cutting-edge advancements of NASA. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits that highlight Moffett Field's pivotal role in national defense, technology, and the broader history of Silicon Valley. With its blend of military and scientific history, the museum provides an enriching experience for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike. The museum's exhibits include aircraft, artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia, offering a comprehensive look at the field's role in naval aviation and airship operations. Visitors can marvel at the evolution of aircraft, including iconic blimps and historic military planes.

A brief summary to Moffett Field Museum

  • Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Remember to bring a valid photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) as it's required for all adult visitors to enter Moffett Federal Airfield.
  • Check the Moffett Field Museum's website for current opening hours and admission fees before planning your visit.
  • Don't miss the HO scale model railroad inside the museum, a hidden gem built by Navy air personnel.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If arriving by car from Highway 101, take the Moffett Boulevard/NASA Parkway exit. Turn right at the stop light onto Moffett Boulevard and proceed to the main gate of Moffett Federal Airfield. Inform the guard at the gate that you are visiting the Moffett Field Museum and present a valid photo ID (driver's license, state ID card, or passport). The guard will provide directions to Building 126, where the museum is located. Parking is available near the museum. Note that access to Moffett Field requires showing a valid photo ID, and the REAL ID Act will be enforced starting May 7, 2025, requiring a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a valid passport. There are no parking fees.

  • Public Transport

    For those using public transportation, take Caltrain to the Mountain View Station. From there, transfer to VTA bus line 23 or 34. Ride the bus until you reach Moffett Field. After disembarking, walk towards Building 126, where the museum is located. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50.

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Discover more about Moffett Field Museum

Step back in time at the Moffett Field Museum, a hidden gem located within the secure grounds of Moffett Federal Airfield, Mountain View. This unique museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of naval aviation, airship technology, and the crucial role Moffett Field played in shaping Silicon Valley's technological landscape. The museum's story begins with the iconic Hangar One, a colossal structure built in 1933 to house the USS Macon, a massive airship that served as a "flying aircraft carrier." While the museum itself is now located in Building 126, a former Navy recreation center across the street from Hangar One, the spirit of the Macon and the early days of aviation still permeates the exhibits. Explore the meticulously crafted diorama of the USS Macon, offering a scaled representation of this remarkable airship. Discover the rich history of Hangar One, including its diverse uses over the decades, through an extensive collection of photographs and artifacts from the airship era. The museum's collection extends far beyond the Macon era, encompassing the diverse history of Moffett Field from its early days as a naval air station to its present-day role as a NASA research center. Explore exhibits dedicated to electronic warfare, navigation, aircrew survival equipment, and the various aviation organizations that have called Moffett Field home over the years. A special exhibit pays tribute to Rear Admiral William A. Moffett, the visionary leader for whom the field is named, highlighting his contributions to naval aviation and his tragic death in the crash of the USS Akron. For those with a passion for aircraft, the Moffett Field Museum boasts an impressive collection of historic planes, both indoors and outdoors. Get up close to iconic aircraft such as the F-18 Hornet, the high-altitude U-2 spy plane, the legendary F-104 Starfighter, the versatile Cobra helicopter, and the formidable P-2 and P-3 Navy patrol planes. Several cockpits are available for closer inspection, including the Harrier VTOL, offering a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of "flying." Beyond the aircraft and artifacts, the Moffett Field Museum offers a glimpse into the human stories behind the technology. Explore exhibits dedicated to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) of World War II, celebrating the courage and determination of these pioneering women who broke barriers to serve their country as pilots. Discover a collection of uniforms from different ranks and periods, providing a tangible connection to the men and women who served at Moffett Field over the years. Don't miss the hidden gem within the museum: a large HO scale model railroad built by Navy air personnel. This meticulously crafted model railroad offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of rail transport and the dedication of the individuals who created it. Visiting the Moffett Field Museum requires a bit of planning, as the airfield is a secure federal facility. All adult visitors must present a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport, to enter the base. Be sure to check the museum's website for current opening hours and admission fees before your visit. The Moffett Field Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a living testament to the ingenuity, bravery, and dedication of the individuals who have shaped the history of aviation and space exploration. Whether you're a seasoned aviation enthusiast or simply curious about the past, a visit to this unique museum is sure to inspire and educate. As you wander through the exhibits, imagine the roar of the Macon's engines, the daring flights of the WASP pilots, and the groundbreaking research conducted at NASA Ames. The Moffett Field Museum is a place where history comes alive, offering a tangible connection to the past and a glimpse into the future of flight and space exploration. With its unique blend of military and scientific history, the Moffett Field Museum offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in airships, fighter planes, or the history of Silicon Valley, you'll find something to captivate your imagination at this hidden gem in the heart of the Bay Area.

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