Your Complete Family Guide To March Field Air Museum

Rosie Latey Travel Updated on 8/22/2025 at 3:32 am

March Field Air Museum entrance sign welcoming visitors.

Tucked away in Riverside, California, the March Field Air Museum is a treasure trove for aviation enthusiasts and curious families alike. Whether you’re nurturing a budding pilot, planning a unique weekend outing, or just want a break from the ordinary, this historic museum promises a memorable adventure for all ages. With over 80 aircraft, hands-on exhibits, and inspiring stories, you’ll quickly discover why March Field is considered one of Southern California’s best-kept family attractions.

Planning Your Visit: Address, Hours & What to Expect

The March Field Air Museum is conveniently located at 22550 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518. You’ll find it right off the 215 freeway, making it an easy day trip from Los Angeles, Orange County, or the Inland Empire. There is ample free parking, and the museum’s layout is stroller and wheelchair friendly, making access a breeze for families with young children or those with mobility needs.

Vintage aircraft displayed at March Field Air Museum under clear blue skies.

The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan to spend at least two to three hours wandering the indoor and outdoor exhibits. Don’t worry about lunch breaks—there’s a cozy gift shop with snacks and cold drinks, plus shaded picnic tables if you decide to pack your own food.

The official sign at the entrance of the March Field Air Museum, welcoming visitors.

As you walk in, expect a warm welcome from staff and volunteers—many of whom have personal ties to aviation history. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, join guided tours, or simply explore at your own pace. It’s a true “choose your own adventure” museum experience, so bring your curiosity!

Historic fighter jet on outdoor exhibit at March Field Air Museum.

Why March Field Air Museum Is Perfect for Families

March Field Air Museum goes above and beyond to make learning fun for kids and adults. The open-air layout lets little ones run off some steam while parents soak in the sights (and snap some awesome family photos with legendary planes like the SR-71 Blackbird or B-52 Bomber). Interactive displays and “open cockpit” days let kids climb inside select aircraft, sparking imaginations and fueling dreams of flight.

Retired military bomber showcased at March Field Air Museum.

Throughout the year, the museum hosts family days, STEM workshops, and special events such as fly-ins and living history presentations. These hands-on experiences allow kids to touch real artifacts, chat with veterans, and even try on pilot gear. It’s a fantastic way to make history come alive for young minds, whether your child is a future engineer or simply loves cool machines.

The iconic SR-71 Blackbird displayed at March Field Air Museum, known as the fastest jet ever built.

Parents will also appreciate the clean restrooms, family-friendly amenities, and safe, fenced-in outdoor areas. With welcoming staff on hand to answer questions and plenty of shade from Riverside’s sunny skies, it’s easy to keep everyone comfortable and entertained throughout your visit.

A glass display case featuring a vintage flight suit, helmet, and boots.

Must-See Exhibits and Interactive Experiences

Don’t miss the museum’s “Century Circle,” where six Cold War-era jet fighters stand guard outside the entrance—these make a dramatic first impression and are popular backdrops for family photos. Inside, the gallery showcases rare artifacts, uniforms, and personal stories from pilots and crews who flew out of March Field during WWII, the Cold War, and beyond.

A polished, silver North American F-86F Sabre jet is displayed indoors, roped off for visitors.

One highlight for families is the opportunity to step inside the massive C-141 Starlifter transport plane, where you can explore the cargo hold and imagine life as a crew member on a mission. The Kids’ Zone offers hands-on activities, including flight simulators, model-building tables, and aviation-themed puzzles tailored for younger visitors.

Fighter jet cockpit at March Field Air Museum.

Throughout the museum, interpretive panels and interactive kiosks encourage kids to test their knowledge, match aircraft parts, and learn about the science of flight. For tech-loving teens and adults, don’t miss the drone exhibit and the fascinating collection of aviation technology spanning more than a century of innovation.

A gray McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II fighter jet is parked outdoors.

Comparing March Field vs. Lyon Air Museum: Which to Choose?

While both March Field Air Museum and Lyon Air Museum (located in Santa Ana, CA) are excellent destinations for aviation buffs, each offers a unique experience. March Field prides itself on its sheer scale, with more than 80 aircraft from every era, open-air displays, and plenty of space to roam outdoors. It’s ideal for families who want a mix of hands-on activities and large-scale exhibits.

A small, sleek white jet with gold stripes is parked outdoors, with two palm trees behind it.

Lyon Air Museum, by contrast, specializes in beautifully restored WWII-era aircraft and vintage vehicles, with a boutique, gallery-like presentation. It’s a bit more compact and polished, making it perfect for those interested in the aesthetics of classic planes and cars or for visitors who prefer a shorter, more curated visit.

An Army-marked Cessna L-19 Bird Dog plane with a prominent front propeller is parked on a dirt lot.

If you’re traveling with young kids or want to spend several hours exploring, March Field’s interactive displays and expansive outdoor spaces offer more freedom and variety. Lyon is a great alternative for history buffs seeking an up-close look at pristine aircraft in a more intimate setting. Either way, you can’t lose—but if you have to pick one, March Field wins for family-friendly fun and immersive experiences.

Close-up of jet engine on display at March Field Air Museum.

Budget Tips: Save Big With Groupon Deals and Discounts

March Field Air Museum is already a great value, with general admission prices that are family-friendly. Admission to the March Field Air Museum is free for Museum members and active military, while it costs $18.00 for adults, $12.00 for seniors, $10.00 for veterans and children ages 5-11, and is free for children 4 and under. But savvy travelers know you can save even more by grabbing a Groupon deal. As of now, Groupon is offering 31% off single-day admission for two adults (ages 12+), and you can snag an extra $5 off with the latest promo code—that means you enjoy a full day at the museum for less than the price of a movie ticket.

Military commemorative plaques honoring aviation history at March Field Air Museum.

Before you visit, check both the museum’s official website and the Groupon site for the latest deals. Sometimes, local libraries and community centers also offer complimentary passes, so it pays to ask around. If you’re planning a group outing, the museum offers additional discounts for larger parties and special events.

Piccadilly Station exhibit showcasing WWII artifacts at March Field Air Museum.

Don’t forget to bring your confirmation email or Groupon voucher (either printed or on your phone) to streamline your check-in process. Pair your ticket savings with a picnic or snacks from home, and you’ve got a budget-friendly day out that won’t break the bank—leaving you with extra cash for the gift shop or future adventures.

A museum gift shop area filled with various merchandise, including T-shirts, model airplanes, and books.

Insider Advice for Making the Most of Your Museum Day

To beat the crowds and the Riverside heat, plan your visit early in the day—weekday mornings are especially quiet and perfect for families with small kids. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as much of the museum is outdoors, and don’t forget sunscreen and hats for summer visits. Water stations are available, but bringing your own refillable bottle is a smart move.

Space Shuttle Endeavour display model featured at March Field Air Museum.

Guided tours are included with admission on select days, and they’re led by knowledgeable volunteers with fascinating personal stories. If you want to delve deeper, ask about special “behind-the-scenes” tours that occasionally allow you to see restoration projects in progress or visit rarely opened aircraft cockpits.

An exhibit of an airplane's fuselage section with several rows of passenger seats. — An exhibit of an airplane’s fuselage section with several rows of passenger seats.

Lastly, consider timing your visit with one of the museum’s special events, such as aircraft fly-ins, living history days, or holiday celebrations. These events offer exclusive access, extra activities for kids, and unforgettable photo ops—check the museum’s calendar before you go. And, as always, don’t hesitate to chat with staff and volunteers—they’re passionate about aviation and eager to share hidden stories and tips you won’t find on the info boards.

Large military aircraft at March Field Air Museum.

Whether you’re a history buff, a parent with energetic kids, or simply curious about the wonders of flight, March Field Air Museum is a can’t-miss destination in Southern California. With its welcoming atmosphere, hands-on exhibits, and family-friendly amenities (plus those unbeatable Groupon deals), it’s never been easier—or more affordable—to step into a world where the sky’s the limit. Pack your sense of adventure and get ready for a day of discovery you’ll remember long after the last jet has soared overhead.