Military Museums in Los Angeles
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Los Angeles is home to a surprising number of museums and historic sites that appeal to lovers of military history.
Military Museums in Los Angeles: (Jump To)
Fort MacArthur Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free
The Fort MacArthur Museum is situated on the grounds of the historic Fort MacArthur, which served as a military defense installation for the harbor of Los Angeles. The museum aims to preserve and interpret the history of Fort MacArthur and the role it played in the defense of the United States. Exhibits cover various periods, including the early days of Fort MacArthur, its role during World War I and World War II, and the Cold War era.
As of 2024, the museum is closed for refurbishment. In the meantime, visitors can explore outdoor exhibits, showcasing military artifacts and remaining pieces of Cold War defense missile systems.
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Los Angeles Maritime Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: (Suggested Donation) Adults $5; Seniors (62+) $3; Age 12 & under FREE
Housed in a historic ferry terminal building the Los Angeles Maritime Museum is filled with a diverse collection of maritime artifacts. The Navy Hall will appeal to those interested in military history.
Other exhibits include the history of local fishing and canning Industries, a day in the life of a Japanese-American fishing village, commercial diving, and a kids exhibit.
Battleship USS Iowa Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults $29.95; Kids (3-11) $21.95; Seniors (62+)/Military $26.95; Kids under 3 Free
The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a significant naval attraction showcasing the historic USS Iowa (BB-61). This battleship, with a rich legacy spanning World War II to the Cold War, offers visitors an immersive experience into naval history. The museum features interactive exhibits, guided tours led by knowledgeable docents, and an array of artifacts and displays that provide insights of the ship's operations and the lives of its crew. The scenic location in the Port of Los Angeles enhances the visit, offering picturesque views of the harbor and creating an atmosphere that captures the maritime essence of the USS Iowa.
Visitors can explore various sections of the battleship, including the bridge, turrets, and living quarters. The museum's emphasis on education and engagement extends to special events, ceremonies, and programs, enriching the experience for history enthusiasts.
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Tomorrow's Aeronautical Museum
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Free
Tomorrow's Aeronautical Museum in Compton, California, offers a diverse collection of aircraft, encompassing both military and civilian planes, providing visitors with a journey through the evolution of aeronautical technology. Beyond static displays, the museum distinguishes itself by actively engaging the community through hands-on flight programs.
Situated in the urban setting of Compton, Tomorrow's Aeronautical Museum emphasizes outreach to underserved communities, contributing to its mission of making aviation education accessible to all. The institution's commitment to community engagement is further underscored by workshops, events, and mentorship programs designed to inspire a passion for aviation and foster educational opportunities.
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WWII Aviation Museum at Camarillo Airport
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: (Suggested Donation) Adults $15.00; Youth (10-18) $10.00; Kids (6-10) and Military $5.00; under 6 Free
Situated within the Camarillo Airport, the WWII Aviation Museum stands out with its impressive collection of aircraft. Operated entirely by volunteers from The Commemorative Air Force, this non-profit organization has transformed an aircraft hangar into a captivating space for enthusiasts and history lovers.
The museum distinguishes itself by providing a hands-on journey through history. Visitors can not only observe a diverse array of aircraft but also engage intimately with these historic machines—seeing, touching, and even capturing a nostalgic essence of aviation history. Beyond serving as static exhibits, each carefully restored aircraft boasts the capability to take flight. Potentially turning a museum visit into a dynamic encounter with living history.
The Queen Mary
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Various tours starting at $40 for Adults and $30 for Children. (Visit on Tuesdays for $10 all ages)
The Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner permanently docked in Long Beach, offers visitors a multifaceted experience blending maritime history, accommodation, and entertainment. Launched in 1934, the ship served as a luxurious transatlantic ocean liner and later played a crucial role as a troopship during World War II. Visitors can embark on guided tours to explore the ship's decks, cabins, and engine room, gaining insights into its illustrious past and learning about the notable figures who traveled aboard.
Beyond its historical significance, the Queen Mary serves as a unique floating hotel, providing guests with the opportunity to stay overnight in its historic cabins. The ship also features diverse dining options, from casual to fine dining, reflecting the elegance of its bygone era. Additionally, the Queen Mary hosts events, live performances, and themed parties, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors. With its museum exhibits, paranormal tours, and various entertainment offerings, the Queen Mary combines maritime heritage with modern amenities, appealing to a wide range of interests.
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The Wende Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free
The Wende Museum, located in Culver City, preserves and explores the history and culture of the Cold War era. Boasting an extensive collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical materials, the museum offers visitors a compelling journey into the political, social, and cultural dynamics of the mid-to-late 20th century. Exhibits delve into life in Eastern Bloc countries and the global impact of the Cold War, providing nuanced perspectives on this tumultuous period. Educational programs, discussions, and archives further enrich the visitor experience, offering a comprehensive
In addition to its permanent collection, The Wende Museum frequently organizes temporary exhibitions, special events, and film screenings, ensuring that visitors can continually engage with fresh perspectives on Cold War history.
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U.S. Navy Seabee Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free
The U.S. Navy Seabee Museum, situated in Port Hueneme, offers visitors a captivating exploration of the storied history and remarkable contributions of the United States Navy Seabees. Through a range of exhibits, artifacts, and memorabilia, the museum provides an immersive journey into the experiences of the Seabees, a specialized construction battalion integral to various military campaigns and infrastructure projects. From displays featuring tools and equipment to interactive exhibits shedding light on the daily lives of Seabees, the museum presents a comprehensive narrative, fostering a deep appreciation for the unique role played by these military engineers.
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SS Lane Victory
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults $15; Students (with ID), age 5-12 $5; Seniors (62+), Active Military $10; 4 and Under Free
The SS Lane Victory, docked in San Pedro, played a crucial role in maritime history. Serving as a victory-class cargo ship during World War II and the Korean War. The ship now stands as a museum and memorial. Guided tours allow visitors to explore its various sections, including cargo holds, crew quarters, and the engine room. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the ship's wartime contributions, providing a firsthand look at the conditions and experiences of the crew. With museum exhibits showcasing artifacts and memorabilia from its operational days, the SS Lane Victory provides visitors a taste of life aboard the ship.
Planes of Fame Air Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults $18; Kids (5-11) $8, Under 5 Free
The Planes of Fame Air Museum, in Chino, is a premier destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its extensive collection of historic aircraft, the museum provides a captivating journey through the evolution of aviation, showcasing planes from World War II to contemporary jet fighters. The museum distinguishes itself with dynamic flight demonstrations, allowing visitors the rare opportunity to witness these iconic planes take to the skies and experience the power and grace of aviation history firsthand.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults $16; Senior (62+) $13; Youth (11-17) $9; Kids (3-10) $6; Military and Kids 2 and Under Free
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, in Simi Valley, provides an immersive exploration of Ronald Reagan's presidency with a distinct emphasis on military history. The library's exhibits and artifacts shed light on Reagan's tenure as Commander-in-Chief during the Cold War, delving into his defense policies, military strategies, and efforts to fortify the U.S. military. Notably, the Air Force One Pavilion stands out as a highlight, offering visitors the rare opportunity to tour the actual Air Force One aircraft that served as the official presidential plane during Reagan's presidency. Additionally, the library showcases Marine One, the presidential helicopter, providing insight into the logistics of presidential travel and security measures in place during Reagan's era.
Displays and information related to the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) and Reagan's diplomatic approaches with the Soviet Union contribute to a nuanced understanding of this pivotal period in military history. For those intrigued by the intersection of presidential leadership and military affairs during the Cold War, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is a must-visit destination.
The Richard Nixon Library & Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults: $28; Seniors (62+) $24; Students and Retired Military $22; Kids (5-11) $18.00; Active Military and Kids 4 and under Free
The Richard Nixon Library & Museum in Yorba Linda, offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Richard Nixon's presidency, with a notable emphasis on his role during the Vietnam War and broader military history. The museum features exhibits detailing Nixon's policies, decisions, and the historical context of the Vietnam War, showcasing documents, photographs, and artifacts related to his efforts to navigate and eventually end U.S. involvement in the conflict. The presidential timeline within the museum provides a chronological overview of Nixon's tenure, highlighting key moments in military matters, foreign policy, and national security, including the signing of the Paris Peace Accords.
In addition to military-focused exhibits, the library houses a collection of military artifacts and offers educational programs that delve into Nixon's approach to defense and international relations. The outdoor spaces on the museum grounds, featuring a replica of the White House East Room and the President's helicopter, Marine One, contribute to the immersive experience.
American Military Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults $5; Veterans/Seniors (65+) $4; Youth (10-16) $3; Kids (5-9) $1; Under 5 Free
The American Military Museum is an outdoor museum that showcases a diverse array of military vehicles, equipment, and artifacts from various eras, providing visitors with a comprehensive overview of the nation's military heritage. The exhibits span pivotal periods such as World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, featuring a range of vehicles, uniforms, and technologies used during these historical conflicts.
Drum Barracks Civil War Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: (Suggested Donation) Adults $5; Youth (under 12) $1
The Drum Barracks Civil War Museum provides a captivating journey into the Civil War era, housed within one of the few remaining buildings from that time. As a significant military post for Union forces in Southern California during the Civil War, the museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and understand this pivotal period in American history. Exhibits within the museum showcase a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents, providing insights into the lives of soldiers and civilians while offering a broader historical context.
Western Museum of Flight
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults $8; Youth (12 and Under) Free
The Western Museum of Flight explores aviation history with a notable emphasis on elements of military interest. Enthusiasts visiting the museum can expect an extensive collection of military aircraft, spanning various eras and showcasing the evolution of military aviation technology. The exhibits delve into significant milestones in military aviation, highlighting the contributions of notable aviators and the historical context of key events.
Air and Space Gallery, California Science Center
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free
The Air and Space Gallery at the California Science Center offers visitors an engaging and hands-on experience in aviation and space exploration. With a diverse collection of historic and modern aircraft and spacecraft, the gallery showcases the evolution of technology. Interactive displays allow visitors to explore scientific concepts related to flight and space travel.
Note that one of the museum’s highlights, the Space Shuttle Endeavour is being relocated to its new home in the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, an exciting new museum expansion expected to open within the next few years.
