An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

100th Anniversary Logo with the 100 in large letters and the museum logo
Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
FREE Admission & Parking

Visitor Requirements

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force asks visitors to comply with the following guidelines:

Masks: Masks are no longer required for museum visitors.

Social Distancing: We ask that all visitors please continue to maintain a minimum distance of six feet from those outside your party while on the museum campus.

Sanitation: Hand sanitizers are available in the facility. Please use them and washing stations in our public restrooms. Cleaning will be enhanced throughout the museum.

Health: If you are not feeling well, have a fever, body aches or a cough, please visit another day. You can take our online virtual tour.

Please note that CDC advises that older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Guests should evaluate their risk in determining whether to attend. People who show no symptoms can spread COVID-19 if they are infected, any interaction with the general public poses an elevated risk of being exposed to COVID-19.
We cannot guarantee that you will not be exposed during your visit.

Closed areas

The following exhibits and areas are closed until further notice:

  • WWII 8th Air Force Control Tower
  • Nissen Hut
  • Playground
  • Water fountains are open, however visitors may also bring in a clear sealed water bottle (up to 20 oz), or purchase one from the Museum Store, Launchpad Shop n' Snack or the Air Force Museum Theatre concession stand.

Amenity Operations

  • Air Force Museum Theatre will operate at 40% of its seating capacity. For films that require 3D glasses, a new pair will be issued with each ticket purchased.
  • Simulator Rides are open but visitors may experience longer wait times for rides as they are sanitized between each customer.
  • Valkyrie Cafe is closed until further notice.
  • Launchpad Shop 'n Snack (located on the mezzanine of the third building) is open. Social distancing is encouraged.
  • Museum Store will have queue lines marking 6 foot distancing.
  • COVID Precaution FAQs
    • Who is required to wear a mask at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force?
      Effective March 3, 2022, masks are no longer required for visitors at the museum. We do ask that all visitors continue to maintain a distance of six feet from other parties.
    • What is the museum’s plan to better protect the safety/health of visitors and staff?
      In order to achieve the highest public health standards, cleaning procedures have been enhanced throughout the museum, including an increased frequency in the disinfecting of high-traffic areas and surfaces. Hand sanitizer stations are now available in each gallery and new directional signage is also in place. In addition, plexiglass sneeze guards have been installed at all of the cashier stations in the Museum Store, theatre, café and simulator rides.
    • Will cars be able to park as normal (closer than six feet apart)?
      Parking will take place as normal, but visitors may park farther away in any of the regular parking spots, if they are more comfortable doing so.
       
    • How many people will be permitted in the museum at one time?
      The museum campus is quite large with over one million square feet. Based on the figures from previous years of attendance, we do not anticipate a need to limit visitors at this time.
       
    • Will there be restrictions on the number of people in a gallery?
      Gallery sizes are quite large. Based on the figures from previous years of attendance, we do not anticipate a need to limit visitors in each gallery at this time.
    • Will there be areas of the museum that will remain closed?
      Yes, Eighth Air Force Control Tower and Nissen Hut will all be closed. Interactive exhibits may be modified or removed in the near term.
       
    • How will the museum maintain social distancing?
      The museum theatre, simulators, café and store will be open with guidelines to limit the numbers of people and ensure proper cleaning between use.   Signage and graphics will be available throughout the museum to help visitors maintain social distancing. It is highly recommended that visitors of each traveling party maintain 6 feet of separation at all times.
    • What additional cleaning measures is the museum taking?
      Cleaning procedures have been enhanced throughout the museum, including an increased frequency in the disinfecting of high-traffic areas and surfaces. Hand sanitizer stations are now available in each gallery and new directional signage is also in place. In addition, plexiglass sneeze guards have been installed at all of the cashier stations in the museum store, theatre, café and simulator rides.
    • What should a visitor do who is feeling ill?
      ​​​Those who are not feeling well should approach the nearest volunteer/staff member and alert them of their condition.
    • What restrictions will be placed on events?
      Group size limitations will be determined by Air Force, Wright Patterson Air Force Base and State of Ohio guidelines. Social distancing and face coverings for visitors required.
    • Will public tours be offered?
      The museum will be open to visitors for self-touring, as well as free daily guided tours. Visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/ for scheduled tours and times. 
    • ​What types of education programs will the museum offer?
      Please visit the Education Division website for the most up-to-date information on available programs.  
       
    • What will the museum charge for bottled water?
      Visit https://www.afmuseum.com/dining for concession information. Visitors may also bring in a clear sealed water bottle (up to 20 oz).
    • What restrictions will take place in the National Aviation Hall of Fame?
      For information on NAHF restrictions, visit www.nationalaviation.org

Contact Us

If you have questions not addressed on this page or the accompanying links, you can send an email to:

National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Air Force Museum Foundation

National Aviation Hall of Fame