March Field Air Museum, Riverside

The March Field Air Museum, nestled in the heart of Riverside, California, offers an immersive dive into the history of aviation and is a treasured landmark within the March Air Reserve Base. Established to preserve and present the dynamic history of military aviation, the museum provides a unique experience for both aviation enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

As you approach the museum, the vast array of aircraft on display is immediately striking. With over 70 historic aircraft, ranging from pre-World War I to modern-day planes, the museum boasts an impressive collection that tells the story of aviation development through the years. These static displays include legendary aircraft such as the B-17 Flying Fortress, the SR-71 Blackbird, and the F-14 Tomcat, each with its own tale of prowess and service.

Inside, the museum houses thousands of artifacts that span the entire history of flight, including personal memorabilia from soldiers and aviators, uniforms, photographs, and various aeronautical equipment. The exhibits meticulously detail the pivotal moments and technological advancements in aviation, offering visitors a comprehensive narrative of the airmen and women who served and the machines that carried them into history.

The March Field Air Museum also features interactive exhibits, including flight simulators that provide a firsthand experience of piloting an aircraft. For the younger crowd, the museum's educational programs and youth-oriented activities aim to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through the fascinating lens of aviation.

Visitors can also embark on guided tours, which are highly recommended to gain deeper insights into the stories behind the exhibits. Knowledgeable docents, often veterans themselves, enrich the experience with anecdotes and facts that you won't find in the display descriptions.