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National Naval Aviation Museum

By Angela Ash

Now, anyone with any knowledge of aviation knows that Pensacola is synonymous with the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron that travels the nation each year representing the best of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Aviation. And where can you actually meet these extraordinary flyers, and actually see the planes up-close? That would be at the National Naval Aviation Museum, of course!

And with an Imax Theatre, simulators, and much more, you haven't even begun to scratch the surface.  Actually located on the air station, remember that you must present your valid photo identification. This almost makes the process even more exciting... like you are about to visit something so exclusive and amazing that you must go through added security. This is totally worth leaving the sun for a few hours. 

Or maybe an entire day, because over 150 aircraft and spacecraft are on display... some that you may even climb inside, or run your hand down the wing. There is even a trolley tour that takes you to see what is displayed behind the hangar. 

And the main word to remember for all of this is FREE. General entry to this magnificent museum is FREE.  The parking is FREE.  There are also guided tours available for a minimal cost of... FREE.  (I must occasionally jest with this complete concept of complimentary, as that it rarely exists!) The only time you will pull out your wallet is for premium offerings, such as the Imax or simulators... or to grab a bite at the Cubi Bar Cafe, or pick up a replica plane at the Flight Deck Store. 

This is a MUST VISIT when you are in Pensacola, and considering that it is a free attraction, with no worry of feeding a meter or paying by the hour for parking, there is really no excuse for not spending the entire afternoon!

Visit the museum online for additional information, or call 850-452-3604.