The March Field Air Museum in Riverside, CA is a must-visit for aviation lovers
Are you a fan of aviation history? If so, the March Field Air Museum in Riverside, California is the perfect place for you! The museum is home to a wide variety of aircraft, from early Wright brothers’ planes to modern-day fighter jets. In addition to the impressive array of aircraft on display, the museum also offers a variety of educational exhibits and programs.
The March Field Air Museum traces its roots back to 1918, when the Army established a training ground in Riverside known as Camp Kearny. In later years, the camp would be renamed March Air Force Base in honor of General Peyton C. March Jr., the Army Chief of Staff during World War I. The base played a vital role in both World War II and the Korean War, serving as a training ground for pilots and crews heading overseas.
In 1981, the base was slated for closure as part of a nationwide round of military base closures. However, local residents fought to keep the base open, and it was eventually decided that March AFB would become a joint civil-military airport known as March Joint Air Reserve Base.
The museum itself was founded in 1989 by a group of retired military personnel and aviation enthusiasts. The original museum was housed in two hangar buildings on base, but eventually outgrew its space. In 2006, construction began on a new 50,000 square-foot facility which now houses the majority of the museum’s exhibits.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the “Gateway to Freedom” exhibit which chronicles Riverside’s contributions to American aviation history. The exhibit includes a replica of one of the Wright brothers’ planes as well as interactive displays about famous aviators who trained at March AFB.
The March Field Air Museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm, and admission is free for all visitors. So if you’re ever in Riverside, be sure to stop by and check it out! You won’t be disappointed.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do in Riverside, CA, the March Field Air Museum is definitely worth a visit. With free admission and plenty of exciting exhibits, there’s something for everyone at this great museum!