Title: A Split Experience at the CR Smith Museum: Great Museum, Disappointing for Corporate Events
Rating: ★★★☆☆
As a Museum: The CR Smith Museum, primarily focused on aviation and showcasing the history of American Airlines, offers an engaging experience for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. The museum provides numerous displays that delve into the rich heritage of American Airlines, with a range of hands-on activities designed to educate children about aviation.
One of the standout features is the accessible cockpit, allowing visitors to experience the sensation of flying an airplane firsthand. Additionally, the museum features impressive exhibits showcasing the intricacy and scale of large jet engines, which provide valuable insights into their complexity.
A notable highlight is the full-sized DC-3, offering an up-close encounter with this iconic aircraft and the chance to appreciate its historical significance.
Rating as a Museum: ★★★★☆
For Corporate Events: Unfortunately, the CR Smith Museum falls short when it comes to hosting corporate events. The limited space available for tables or gatherings makes it challenging to accommodate such occasions comfortably. It appears that corporate events are an afterthought at this venue.
Furthermore, expect the museum to be closed during these events, resulting in restricted access to displays and exhibits. This can be disappointing for attendees who were looking forward to exploring the museum alongside their corporate function.
Regrettably, the staff's lack of assistance and unavailability of essential facilities, such as the use of dumpsters, further dampened the overall experience. It is disheartening when event organizers are not provided with the necessary support and amenities required to ensure a successful event.
Rating for Corporate Events: ★★☆☆☆
In summary, the CR Smith Museum offers an enjoyable and informative experience for those interested in aviation history. The displays and interactive activities cater to both children and adults, making it a worthwhile visit for aviation enthusiasts. However, as a venue for corporate events, the museum falls short due to limited space, closure of exhibits, and a lack of support from the staff. If you're primarily interested in visiting the museum, it is worth exploring, but for hosting an event, it may be wise to consider alternative venues.
Note: Please be aware that this review is based on the specific experience of hosting a corporate event at the CR Smith Museum. Individual experiences may vary, and it is advisable to inquire about event arrangements before making...
Read moreThe CR Smith Museum offers a thoroughly impressive and engaging experience for anyone interested in aviation. The museum is very well-done, brilliantly capturing the essence and evolution of American Airlines, along with the broader history of aviation.
One of the charming aspects of the museum is its attention to detail. A notable example is the theater seating, which consists of old airplane first-class seats. This unique touch not only adds character to the museum but also enhances the immersive experience, making visitors feel like they're part of aviation history.
The museum is also incredibly family-friendly, with a variety of exhibits specifically designed for children. The play zone and interactive activities are fantastic for keeping younger visitors entertained while they learn. It's an excellent way to introduce kids to the world of aviation in an engaging and fun manner.
For aviation enthusiasts, the museum's highlight is undoubtedly the extensive history of American Airlines. The exhibits chronicle the airline's journey through the years, offering a fascinating glimpse into how the aviation industry has evolved over time. This educational aspect is both informative and captivating, appealing to visitors of all ages.
Additionally, the museum offers hands-on activities that are a real treat. Visitors have the unique opportunity to sit in an actual MD-80 cockpit, providing a rare behind-the-scenes look at the pilot's world. The computerized flight simulator is another interactive highlight, offering a taste of what it's like to fly an aircraft. These hands-on experiences are not only enjoyable but also incredibly educational.
In conclusion, the CR Smith Museum is a remarkable destination that combines education, history, and fun in a memorable way. Whether you're an aviation buff, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a family-friendly outing, this museum is a great choice. Its mix of interactive exhibits, historical insights, and engaging activities make it a...
Read moreI last went to this museum about twenty years ago. Admission is 12 dollars to enter, payable at the gift shop.
I did not notice a lot of visitors that were present were American Airlines employees in corporate indoctrination tours. (I don't mean indoctrination in its commonly held negative sense. It is great to have a place to show a company's history and background.)
The layout remained essentially the same, but I didn't realize the expansion of the children's attractions to the existing foot print. I swore there more mannequins and artifacts on display and an airport layout right behind the engine cutaway. Also missing in the front entrance was the display of C.R. Smith's medals and accolades. The rump of his exhibit was placed in a single display case by the DC-3. On the other hand, weighing myself in numbers of chickens was quite entertaining.
The grounds were well maintained, although in need of a update. The theater is such a example. The retired beige seating dating back to the 1980's reminded me how roomy seating was back then. They also showed a what they referred to as "vintage" a 1990's film about the story of the airline. Both are sad reminders of how of how the American air travel experience has declined.
For the main attraction, the DC-3 was majestic as always. Although is quite a small plane, its presence cannot be denied. Access to the aircraft is to the back. You can literally smell the leather and metal inside the aircraft. It is definitely one should immerse oneself in and feel the history.
The museum is worth a visit, I just wish they found room to add back some the adult focused exhibits back in. They do have the...
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