Yesterday, my two elementary-aged children and I had the distinct pleasure of visiting the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford, OK. We spent a wonderful two and a half hours exploring both the indoor exhibits and the impressive outdoor displays, including the playground.
This museum is a truly terrific institution, serving as a fitting tribute to the remarkable Thomas P. Stafford and the city and trust that so clearly pour their dedication into maintaining it. Having last visited in the early 2000s, I was astounded by its considerable growth and evident ongoing expansion, particularly with the addition of more outdoor structures.
From the moment we arrived, the entire staff was incredibly helpful and welcoming. For our self-guided tour, they provided me with a comprehensive pamphlet, and, crucially, a scavenger hunt for the kids. This thoughtful touch absolutely kept my children engaged and excited throughout our visit.
What truly elevates this already wonderful museum to a "can't-miss" stop is the recent acquisition of an F-117 Stealth Fighter, now proudly displayed in its own dedicated room. The exceptional rarity of this aircraft, and the clear effort involved in securing it, makes the Stafford Air & Space Museum an essential destination for anyone traveling along I-40 or experiencing the Mother Road.
Beyond this crown jewel, the museum offers a fascinating array of exhibits. Highlights include Apollo 10 spacesuits, the Gemini 6A spacecraft, artifacts from the Space Shuttle program, and even a Moon rock. Outside, you can marvel at a Titan II missile and a diverse collection of historic aircraft, such as the impressive A-10 Thunderbolt II. The museum also features an interactive educational center with flight simulators, a kids' library, and unique items like a Cosmonaut survival pistol.
The Stafford Air & Space Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's an immersive and inspiring experience that captivates visitors of all ages. We left feeling both educated and thoroughly entertained, and I highly recommend it to families and aviation...
Read moreI have been here several times, over the last 6 years, with elementary classes. The tour guides have, and share, a wealth of knowledge.
The museum has wonderful, educational, intriguing pieces and replicas: •Tons of memorabilia from General Stafford himself. •Pieces from space missions up close •Videos of professionals discussing missions •A moving engine from an airplane •A couple of cockpits to climb into •Examples of food and tools used during outterspace missions •An interactive "kids" area! (Kids of all ages will enjoy!) •Admisssion, for adults, is only $7, and children, seniors and members are even less.
TO TOP ALL OF THAT OFF...
Most recently we went during an event, "Wings Over Weatherford."
•The volunteers and staff were professional and friendly. They definitely enhanced our experience. •We were able to watch several planes take off and land. •Organization of the event was remarkable. •We went inside of an old war plane. The pilot was a member of a group that who teaches jumping. He was able to share information about the plane with us. He had made over 50 jumps. •There were opportunities to ride in several of the airplanes. •We even got to stand underneath a bomber and look inside the cavity the bombs are dropped from!
We spent 3 hours at the event, and that time flew by. There was so much...
Read moreMuseum covers all the planes, rockets and space equipment that defined the entire amazing career and accomplishments of Lieutenant General Thomas Stafford. I am retired, and travel the US full time in a Class A bus. We have been in numerous science, technology, world war and aircraft museums. This museum competes at a high level when compared with the Kennedy Space center in Florida! Much of the equipment is real machinery that was used in flights. The items that were mockups were really done well, AND many times you can touch the stuff and stand 6" from it! What good is real stuff when you are 10 feet away from it! This museum is a member of Harvest Hosts. The museum parking lot for RV's is "giant". (The google satellite image is OLD.) In peak summer months, just plan to arrive after 5pm when the museum is closed. You will have plenty of room. We spent 4.5 hours here,......pack your lunch for the parking lot,......no food in the museum. On a nice day, they have a beautiful courtyard with tables...
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