Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum

The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is a fantastic spot for anyone into aviation and space. Nestled in McMinnville, Oregon, it boasts an amazing lineup of historic planes and spacecraft, including the famous Hughes H-4 Hercules “Spruce Goose,” the largest wooden flying boat ever built.

History

The museum’s standout pieces include the SR-71 Blackbird, which was the fastest jet until 1999, and the Titan II Space Launch Vehicle with its original launch room. There’s also a cool exhibit on the early days of flight, featuring the first airplanes and their trailblazers. The space section is just as impressive, with displays on space missions and the gear used in space exploration.

How to Get There

You’ll find the museum at 500 NE Captain Michael King Smith Way, McMinnville, OR 97128. It’s about an hour from Portland and 40 minutes from Salem. The nearest big airport is Portland International, and from there, you can grab a taxi or shuttle to McMinnville.

Attractions

1. Spruce Goose: Check out the Hughes H-4 Hercules, the largest wooden flying boat. You can walk inside and watch a documentary about its history.
2. SR-71 Blackbird: This supersonic jet was the speed king until 1999, a must-see for aviation fans.
3. Titan II Space Launch Vehicle: Peek into the original launch room of the Titan II SLV for a taste of space launch operations.
4. Early Flight Exhibit: Dive into the early days of flight with displays of the first airplanes and their pioneers.
5. Space Museum: Explore life-sized replicas of the Apollo Lunar Lander and Rover, plus exhibits on space missions and tools.
6. Flight Simulator: Feel the rush of flying with the MaxFlight Flight Simulator, offering combat flight simulators and virtual rollercoasters.
7. Carlton Observatory: Discover a 135-year-old telescope while supporting fundraising for its modern facility.

Ticket Information

• Admission Prices:
  • Adults: $22
  • Seniors and Veterans: $16
  • Active Duty: Free
  • Youth (5 – 15): $10
  • Children (0-4): Free
• Guided Tours: Enjoy free docent-led tours twice daily, plus cockpit tours of the Spruce Goose.
• Additional Activities: Grab a bite at the Aviator Café, open daily from 11 am to 3 pm, with a variety of food options.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Ahead: The museum is huge, so plan to spend at least a day. A guided tour can enhance your experience.
2. Interactive Exhibits: The flight simulator and virtual rollercoaster are perfect for families and kids.
3. Bring a Stroller: The museum’s size makes a stroller handy for families with little ones.
4. Picnic Lunch: Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the museum grounds if you’re staying all day.
5. Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout.
6. Birthday Parties: Host a themed birthday party with access to the flight simulator, party room, and a special gift for the birthday child.

The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is a memorable spot for aviation and space buffs. With its extensive collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly activities, it’s a must-see in Oregon.