Soar in an open-cockpit WWII trainer for 20 thrilling minutes above coastal Virginia.
20 minutes
20-min flight, Pilot, Museum entry
Step into a restored 1941 Boeing Stearman and feel the wind rush as you cruise above Virginia Beach. Your 20-minute open-cockpit flight offers sweeping views of farmland, wetlands, and the Atlantic coastline.
Passengers must be at least 12 years old, weigh no more than 300 lbs, and be able to board and exit unaided. External medical devices are not permitted.
Rides are transferable but normally non-refundable. If the Museum cancels a flight because of weather, maintenance, or pilot judgment, you may choose a refund or reschedule. The Museum may refuse a flight if safety limitations apply; in that case a full refund is issued.
Long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a light jacket are recommended; flight suits are available on request.
No. The Stearman has one passenger seat; the pilot occupies the rear seat.
Expect views of rural Virginia Beach, Back Bay Wildlife Refuge, North Landing River, False Cape State Park, and the Atlantic shoreline.
1341 Princess Anne Road, Virginia
The passion radiating from the staff and volunteers really defines this place. Visitors consistently praise how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the guides are, eager to share detailed stories and answer questions that bring the aircraft collection to life. Many of these historic planes are still in flying condition, and catching one taking off or landing during your visit adds genuine excitement to the experience. The collection is extensive and well-preserved, housed in multiple hangars that require a good three hours to explore properly. Beyond being a museum, this venue doubles as a surprisingly versatile event space. Visitors mention hosting everything from 5K charity runs to weddings in the hangars, with staff receiving high marks for their helpfulness. There's even a dinosaur park attached that families with kids particularly enjoy. Tours are recommended over self-guided visits since the guides provide context and stories you'd otherwise miss. While scenic flights are available for an additional cost, the museum admission itself offers plenty of value for aviation and military history enthusiasts.
Great place to get up close to World War I and World War II aircraft , but absolutely amazing visit on the 4th of July. For the 4th, the museum hosted an airshow with four airplanes, sky divers and bagpipes. Seating was just inside air conditioned hanger, which was perfect for the 95 degree heat. Great announcements on the history of the airplanes and we were able to see the planes after the show. And we were lucky to catch a glimpse of a squadron of modern jets (F18 and F22 - I think) flying out to the 250th celebration in DC. Highly recommended and great value (17 dollars for adults). The air show was included in the admission to the museum !!!! Adventure seekers can also go for a ride on the biplane for an additional fee) Thanks to the museum, announcers, volunteers, bagpipers and members of our armed forces who came together to create this special experience. Happy 4th!!! Most photos captured with a Canon R5 mark II with RF70-200 F2.8 lens
Howard Cheng
July 8, 2026
Great place to get up close to World War I and World War II aircraft , but absolutely amazing visit on the 4th of July. For the 4th, the museum hosted an airshow with four airplanes, sky divers and bagpipes. Seating was just inside air conditioned hanger, which was perfect for the 95 degree heat. Great announcements on the history of the airplanes and we were able to see the planes after the show. And we were lucky to catch a glimpse of a squadron of modern jets (F18 and F22 - I think) flying out to the 250th celebration in DC. Highly recommended and great value (17 dollars for adults). The air show was included in the admission to the museum !!!! Adventure seekers can also go for a ride on the biplane for an additional fee) Thanks to the museum, announcers, volunteers, bagpipers and members of our armed forces who came together to create this special experience. Happy 4th!!! Most photos captured with a Canon R5 mark II with RF70-200 F2.8 lens
Howard Cheng
July 8, 2026