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Air Force Armament Museum Visitors Guide
Over two million people have visited the Air Force Armament Museum over the years, and it’s easy to see why. This massive museum is the only one of its kind in the world, and is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Air Force history through educational exhibits, interactive displays, vintage aircrafts, and more! This magnificent museum has everything from high-tech, present-day planes, to vintage military aircrafts, rockets, and missiles.
Starting with humble beginnings, this museum was approved in 1974, but there wasn’t an appropriate building for the museum to use until 1976. From 1976 until 1981, the Air Force Armament Museum Foundation was established to help fund the museum, causing it to grow exponentially! Unfortunately, in 1981, the building that was housing this museum was condemned, causing it to close.
Luckily, the foundation began a funding effort in 1984, and by 1985, over one million dollars were raised, and the construction of a new, 28,000-square-foot facility began. In November of 1985, the new museum was deeded to the U.S.A.F., and opened to the public. Since then, millions of people have visited this iconic museum, which has become an educational and cultural landmark along the Emerald Coast.
The first thing most visitors notice upon arrival is the array of aircraft awaiting you out front. The SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest plane ever built, as well as numerous planes from World War II, Vietnam, and Gulf War eras are on display. And that’s just the start! Inside of the museum, visitors will see an extensive collection of weaponry, interactive displays, fighter cockpit simulator, war films, documents, photography, and more. With so much to see and do, the Air Force Armament Museum is sure to educate, amaze, and intrigue!
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Keeping You Informed
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the Air Force Armament Museum is ADA compliant. The building is two stories, with elevator access to the second floor. Sidewalks lead the way to the outdoor exhibits, as well, so navigating through the many colossal aircrafts is both easy, and accessible.
Free wheelchair rentals are available at the museum on a first come first serve basis for those who need one. Please keep in mind, however, that there is a limited quantity. It is recommended to bring your own if you have one, or arrive early if you are needing one. Service animals are allowed onsite, as well.
The Air Force Armament Museum is located just outside of the Eglin Air Force Base entrance, so you do not need a pass or military ID to enter the museum.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the Air Force Armament Museum. Service animals, however, are allowed with proper documentation.
While this varies from person to person, with over 1,400 artifacts to explore at the Air Force Armament Museum, one could easily spend the entire day there. You will definitely want to set aside at least a couple of hours to get the full experience. On average, however, most visitors will spend about two hours at the museum.