Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum — Attraction in Ashland

Perhaps it’s time to rename this Museum to “The Nebraska Aviation, Space and Science Museum.” I came expecting to find a museum dedicated to telling the story of the Air Force’s Strategic Air Command and instead discovered a “catch all” collection for anything aviation, space or science related the museum curators can get their hands on. Exhibits featuring NASA Astronaut Clayton Anderson, The Tuskegee Airmen of WW2, The Holocaust, an art collection of WW2 Aircraft models and a Children’s corner featuring STEM topics.. the collection of exhibits varied wildly beyond the Strategic Air Command. This isn’t a bad thing and I enjoyed happening upon these bonus exhibits but I feel the Museum has lost it’s focus on the what I believed was the core mission and original intent of the Museum: telling the story of the Air Force’s Strategic Air Command.

Thankfully a big part of the collection is still focused on the legacy of the Strategic Air Command (SAC). However, when entering the museum visitors must be keenly observant to sight a single information panel off to the right of the ticket counter if they want to get any general understanding of the story of the SAC. The panel gives an absurdly brief recount of SAC and the purpose it served. The learning potential of this Museum would expand tremendously if a proper introduction was given to visitors upon entering the museum doors. A small 30-40 seat theater where a 15 minute introduction video telling the story of SAC playing on a loop would go a long way to prime visitors for the collection waiting beyond a theater-room in the two hangars. But at the very least, the museum needs to do a better job in telling the story of SAC to visitors upon entering the museum. This was my greatest disappointment while visiting.

Before leaving and still hoping to quench my thirst for knowledge about the SAC, I entered the gift shop before exiting to my car. Twice I circled the gift shop floor looking for the books. Where were the history books? The auto-biographies of the US Military Generals? The deep-dives into the SAC involvement in the Cold War? Well, maybe a book about Clayton Anderson? NOTHING. No Books for sale here! Instead, the gift shop is all about selling garbage: 100% knick-knack garbage. Over-hawked NASA themed attire, generic aviation themed bumper stickers, Rosie the Riveter Posters, and endless rows of plastic toys one would expect to find in toy department at Walmart. There wasn’t a single book for sale that would offer continuing education and learning about the SAC. Among the worst offenders in the gift shop I found were bath-time toys featuring Curious George and shot glasses themed for Atlanta Georgia. (!?!?) I’m curious what Gen. Curtis Lemay would have to say about the offerings at the gift shop inside the museum that chronicles his military service to this country. It must be very embarrassing for the people who work so hard to curate this museum’s collection to then offer up a gift shop that serves no education purpose. Clearly this gift-shop is a trap set to get Grandparents to buy junk for their grandkids.

Given the tremendous effort and money Nebraskans have put forth to establish and run this museum, I hope the current stewards of the museum will honor the work of generations past by improving how they tell the story of the SAC and preserve the visiting experience as an educational opportunity. Or, consider renaming the museum for what it really is: The Nebraska Air, Space and Science Museum.

PS: I did enjoy the pun by calling the Dining Hall the...

Great experience. The Strategic Air & Space Museum in Ashland, Nebraska, is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This expansive museum houses a remarkable collection of aircraft, missiles, and space vehicles, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of air and space exploration. Highlights: Impressive Aircraft Collection: From the iconic B-52 Stratofortress to the sleek F-16 Fighting Falcon, the museum boasts an impressive array of aircraft. You can explore the interiors of many of these planes, gaining a unique perspective on their design and functionality. Missile and Space Exhibits: The museum also features a significant collection of missiles, including the Minuteman III, providing insights into the Cold War and the evolution of nuclear deterrence. Space exploration enthusiasts will appreciate the exhibits showcasing space capsules, rockets, and artifacts related to the American space program. Interactive Exhibits and Activities: The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. Children will particularly enjoy the hands-on activities and flight simulators, while adults can delve deeper into the history and technology through informative displays and presentations. Planetarium and IMAX Theater: The museum's planetarium offers captivating shows that explore the wonders of the universe, while the IMAX theater provides a unique cinematic experience with large-format films on a variety of topics. Overall: The Strategic Air & Space Museum is a well-maintained and informative museum that offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned aviation enthusiast or simply curious about the history of flight and space exploration, this museum is well worth a visit. Tips for Visitors: Plan for ample time: The museum is vast and there is much to see and do, so allow several hours for your visit. Check for special events: The museum often hosts special events and exhibits, so check their website for upcoming programs. Consider purchasing a membership: If you plan to visit the museum frequently, a membership can offer significant savings. I hope this review helps you plan your visit to the Strategic Air &...

Exploring Aviation History: A Marvelous Experience at the Airplane Museum

Visiting the Airplane Museum was an exhilarating journey through the annals of aviation history. Nestled amidst a serene landscape, the museum offers a breathtaking collection of aircraft that spans decades of innovation and progress in flight technology.

Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the sheer magnitude of the exhibits. From the early pioneers of aviation like the Wright brothers to modern marvels of engineering, each aircraft tells a compelling story of human ingenuity and determination. The museum's displays are impeccably curated, providing detailed insights into the evolution of flight through informative placards and interactive exhibits.

One of the highlights of my visit was seeing iconic planes up close, such as the legendary Spitfire from World War II and the sleek lines of a Concorde supersonic jet. The meticulous restoration efforts were evident, preserving these historic aircraft in pristine condition for future generations to appreciate.

The museum doesn't just focus on airplanes; it also delves into the broader cultural impact of aviation. Exhibits on wartime aviation history, the space race, and pioneering female aviators offered a comprehensive view of how flight has shaped global history and culture.

Throughout my visit, the staff's passion for aviation was palpable. Their knowledge and enthusiasm added an extra layer of depth to the experience, as they shared captivating anecdotes and answered questions with infectious enthusiasm.

For aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike, the Airplane Museum is an absolute must-visit. It's a place where the spirit of innovation takes flight, offering a profound appreciation for the triumphs and challenges that have shaped the course of aviation history. Whether you're marveling at a vintage biplane or pondering the future of space exploration, the museum offers a captivating journey...