Anyone who loves aviation will feel right at home at the Museum of Flight in Seattle. Founded in 1964 by a group of aviation enthusiasts dedicated to preserving the history of flight, the museum showcases an extensive collection of aircraft and spacecraft, a wide array of flight-related artifacts, and active educational programs that include special events, lectures, technical presentations, and publications on aeronautical and astronautical history.
In 2016, visitors can explore The Boeing Centennial Exhibit, a tribute to a century of Boeing aircraft, innovation, and milestones. The exhibit features a retrospective of Boeing’s major achievements displayed in the T.A. Wilson Great Gallery, along with notable aircraft such as a replica of America’s first all‑metal fighter, the 1930s Boeing P‑26, a Boeing B‑29 Superfortress, and the fixed‑wing Boeing 100/P‑12/F4B. Numerous other Boeing aircraft are also on display, offering a broad view of the company’s contributions to aviation.
The Centennial celebration includes themed Centennial Weekends that focus on different eras of Boeing’s history. Each weekend highlights a specific period with curated performances, films, dance, and food offerings that reflect the era’s character. For example, The Formidable Forties will be featured on April 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., presenting period-appropriate programming and activities designed to bring that decade to life for visitors of all ages.
The Museum of Flight is not only a showcase of historic aircraft but also an educational resource that engages visitors through hands-on exhibits and informative programs. Whether you are interested in military aircraft, commercial aviation, space exploration, or the technological advances that shaped modern flight, the museum provides a comprehensive and inspiring experience that appeals to aviation enthusiasts, students, and families alike.