Children's Museums

Western Museum of Flight

Name: Western Museum of Flight
Address: 3315 Airport Dr, Torrance, CA 90505, Torrance, CA, US
Telephone: (310) 326-9544
Rating: 4.7

★★★★☆ 4.7 (357 reviews)

📍 3315 Airport Dr, Torrance, CA 90505

Visit Website 📍 Get Directions

🕐 Hours

Quick Facts

⭐Houses one of only two YF-23 fighter competition prototypes (PAV 2), a rare aircraft that competed against the F-22 in the Advanced Tactical Fighter competition
⭐Features a hands-on cockpit experience where visitors can sit inside an F-5 aircraft in great condition
⭐Museum is housed inside two large aircraft hangars located within an active airport facility in Torrance, CA
⭐Docents and knowledgeable staff are extensively praised in reviews (44 mentions of knowledgeable staff), suggesting a strong educational volunteer program
⭐Collection features significant aircraft from Northrop Grumman, including prototypes and military aircraft such as F-5, A-4, and F-14

💬Don't be deterred by the locked gate at the airport entrance—staff will buzz you in immediately. It's a security measure for the airport location and causes no real inconvenience.
💬Plan to spend about 1 hour touring the two large aircraft hangars. This allows adequate time to walk through exhibits, take photos, and absorb details without rushing.
💡Take full advantage of the docents—they are highly knowledgeable, cheerful, and eager to share interesting details about the aircraft and prototypes. Engage with them to deepen your understanding of the collection.
💡The YF-23 fighter competition prototype (one of only two in existence) is the main feature and centerpiece of the museum. Prioritize seeing this rare aircraft, along with the F-5 cockpit experience.
💬The $10 suggested donation provides excellent value for access to rare Northrop Grumman aircraft and prototypes. This is an affordable educational experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.