At Seattle’s Museum of Flight, kids can quite literally reach for the skies. Families can step inside real airplanes, explore a space shuttle trainer, and discover the stories of aviation pioneers. With hands-on exhibits, flight simulators, and a vast collection of aircraft and space artifacts, this museum turns science and history into an unforgettable adventure.
What Parents Will Love
The Museum of Flight offers aerospace education in action. Parents appreciate the variety of interactive galleries, free weekend craft workshops, and programs highlighting aerospace careers and STEM pathways — including those designed for girls and BIPOC youth. The museum’s spacious layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace, whether you’re diving deep into aviation history or just enjoying the thrill of walking through Air Force One.
What Kids Will Love
Planes, spacecraft, and rockets galore! Kids can sit in a pilot’s seat, walk through airplanes, and even try out simulator rides and virtual reality experiences (for an added cost). The hands-on craft area keeps little ones busy, while older kids love exploring the Space Gallery, the Shuttle Trainer, and the exhibits that let them imagine life as an astronaut or pilot.
Plan Your Visit
- Address: 9404 East Marginal Way South, Seattle, WA 98108
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: Free–$29 (The museum participates in Museums for All, Library Free Museum Pass Programs, and other discounts. See website for details under “Hours & Admission.”)
- Website: museumofflight.org
- Free/Discounted Days: First Thursday of every month, 5–9 p.m.
- School & Homeschool Programs: Engaging field trip options for all learners. Visit museumofflight.org/Education or email Education@museumofflight.org.
- After-School/Weekend Classes: A variety of programs for K–12, including opportunities for girls in STEM and BIPOC youth, plus credit-bearing education programs.
- Family-Friendly Features: Explore airplane and space exhibits, walk through aircraft like the Concorde and Air Force One, and visit the Aerospace Education Center for career and program info.
- Museum Café: Yes
Explore More Family-Friendly Museums
- Guide to Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture (Seattle, WA)
- Guide to the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) (Seattle, WA)
- Guide to KidsQuest Children’s Museum (Bellevue, WA)
- Guide to the Pacific Bonsai Museum (Federal Way, WA)
- Guide to the White River Valley Museum (Auburn, WA)
- Guide to Imagine Children’s Museum (Everett, WA)
- Guide to Hands On Children’s Museum (Olympia, WA)
- Guide to Children’s Museum of Skagit County (Burlington, WA)
- Guide to Spark Museum of Electrical Invention (Bellingham, WA)
- Guide to Rocky Reach Discovery Center (Wenatchee, WA)
- Guide to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) (Portland, OR)
Remember, some Seattle-area museums also participate in the First Thursday program, offering free or discounted admission. Check out exactly which museums offer what, and when at our Guide to First Thursdays.
