National Air and Space Museum of France
Welcome to the National Air and Space Museum, one of the fascinating museums in France!
The French National Air and Space Museum is among the earliest aviation museums globally, both regarding its establishment date and the wealth of its collections.
Established in 1919, it boasts a distinctive historical collection covering three different aspects of flight: aerostation, aviation, and space.
Here, aviation enthusiasts and history buffs can explore the evolution of flight and space exploration, from the early days of ballooning to modern-day rocketry.
The museum’s collection includes everything from early gliders and biplanes to modern commercial airliners and military jets.
You’ll also find an array of space artifacts, including the original Soyuz capsule used in the first French space mission.
Also, the prototype of the Ariane rocket, which revolutionized commercial space travel.
In addition to its impressive collection, the National Air and Space Museum France also features interactive exhibits and educational programs.
It makes learning about aviation and space exploration fun and engaging.
Visitors can experience a simulated space mission, learn about the physics of flight, and even pilot a virtual aircraft in the museum’s state-of-the-art flight simulator.
With its unique collections, interactive exhibits, and fascinating history, this museum is sure to inspire and captivate visitors of all ages.
[ez-toc]
National Air and Space Museum France Opening Hours
The National Air and Space Museum is open every day of the year except for January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
The museum’s hours of operation vary depending on the time of year, so it’s always a good idea to check the website or call ahead before you visit.
The museum is open every day except Mondays.
From April to September:
Opening hours are between 10am to 6pm.
From October to March:
Opening hours are between 10am to 5pm.
Note that the last admission to the museum is 45 minutes before closing time, so plan your visit accordingly.
The museum is busiest during the summer months and on weekends, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or during the off-season.
Remember that some of the museum’s exhibits and attractions may have their hours of operation, so be sure to check before you go.
National Air and Space Museum History
The National Air and Space Museum France, also known as the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace, has a rich history spanning over a century.
The museum was founded in 1919 as the French Air Museum, just a few years after the end of World War I.
The museum’s early collections focused on military aircraft and aviation history, particularly on French aviation pioneers such as Louis Blériot and Roland Garros.
Over the years, the museum’s collections grew and expanded, reflecting the rapidly evolving world of aviation and space exploration.
In the 1930s, the museum acquired several rare and historic aircraft, including the Breguet 19 and the Farman F.190.
During World War II, the museum’s collections were moved to various locations around France to protect them from bombing raids.
After the war, the museum returned to its original location at Le Bourget airport, where it continued to expand and evolve.
In the 1950s and 60s, the museum added several new exhibits, including a collection of helicopters and a replica of the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Flyer.
In the 1970s, the museum’s focus expanded to include space exploration, with exhibits on rockets, satellites, and the Apollo moon landings.
In 1975, the French Air Museum was renamed the National Air and Space Museum, reflecting its growing focus on space exploration and its status as one of the world’s premier aviation and space museums.
Today, the museum’s collections include thousands of artifacts, from historic aircraft to space suits and moon rocks.
The museum is a popular destination for visitors worldwide, offering a unique perspective on the history and future of aviation and space exploration.
Exhibits and Collections at National Air and Space Museum
The National Air and Space Museum’s vast and varied collection, with something for everyone.
From early gliders and balloons to modern-day spacecraft, the museum showcases the evolution of aviation and space exploration.
One of the collection’s highlights is the famous Concorde supersonic airliner, which set speed records and revolutionized air travel in the 1970s.
Visitors can climb aboard the Concorde and explore the luxurious interior of this iconic aircraft.
Other notable exhibits include the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Flyer, the first successful powered aircraft in history.
Also, Mirage III, a French fighter jet that set several speed records in the 1950s and 60s.
Visitors can also explore the museum’s collection of spacecraft, including the Russian Soyuz capsule and the European Space Agency’s Ariane rocket.
Interactive exhibits allow visitors to experience the sensation of weightlessness, launch a rocket, and even fly a plane.
The museum also features exhibits and displays on the history of French aviation, including the early pioneers and the development of French military aviation.
The museum’s comprehensive collection of engines and propulsion systems provides a fascinating insight into the technology behind flight.
National Air and Space Museum Tickets
Admission to the National Air and Space Museum is free, but specific exhibits and activities may require additional fees.
Using the Paris Museum Pass to Visit the National Air and Space Museum of France is a best option.
If you plan to visit several museums and historical sites while in Paris, you may want to consider purchasing the Paris Museum Pass.
This pass grants admission to over 50 museums and monuments throughout Paris and its surrounding regions, including the National Air and Space Museum France.
You can purchase your Paris Museum Pass online or at participating museums and tourist offices throughout Paris.
Depending on your stay in Paris, you can choose from a 2-day, 4-day, or 6-day pass.
The pass is activated on the first day of use and is valid for consecutive days.
With the Paris Museum Pass, you can skip the ticket lines at each museum or monument and enter directly with your pass.
This can save you valuable time and help you make the most of your visit to each site.
If you plan to visit the National Air and Space Museum France, the Paris Museum Pass is a great value, as admission to the museum is included in the pass.
Plus, with the pass, you’ll have access to dozens of other museums and monuments throughout Paris, including the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Palace of Versailles.
Overall, the Paris Museum Pass is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the cultural treasures of Paris, including the National Air and Space Museum France.
So consider this option when planning your trip to the City of Light.
We recommend booking your tickets online in advance, as the museum can get busy, particularly during peak season.
This will save you time waiting in line and guarantee your entry.
Ticket Price
The costs of individual tickets differ from option to option.
There is only one kind of ticket they sell:
| Adult (ages 18-99) – Price starts from €68 ($74) |
| Children ages 17 and younger do not require a ticket. |
| Passes | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| 2-Day Pass | €68 ($74) |
| 4-Day Pass | €84 ($91) |
| 6-Day Pass | €100 ($109) |
| 2-Day Pass & River Cruise | €165 ($180) |
| 4-Day Pass & River Cruise | €195 ($213) |
| 6-Day Pass & River Cruise | €225 ($245) |
You don’t need to worry about payment.
You can reserve your order and pay later.
Simply enter your details, and they will automatically charge you 72 hours before your activity starts.
The best part is that they provide free cancellation.
You will also receive a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Special Events and Programs at National Air and Space Museum
In addition to its impressive collection, the National Air and Space Museum offers a wide range of special events and programs throughout the year.
These include lectures, workshops, and demonstrations on aviation history, space exploration, and aeronautical engineering.
The museum also hosts several special exhibitions each year, featuring a range of themes and topics related to aviation and space exploration.
These exhibitions offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore different aspects of flight and space technology.
National Air and Space Museum Parking
If you’re driving to the National Air and Space Museum France, you’ll be happy to know that the museum offers ample on-site parking for visitors.
The museum’s parking lot is just a short walk from its main entrance, making it a convenient and hassle-free option for those arriving by car.
The museum’s parking lot is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and parking fees are very reasonable.
The first hour of parking is free, with each additional hour costing just a few euros.
The maximum daily rate is also quite affordable, making it an excellent option for visitors who plan to spend the whole day exploring the museum’s collections and exhibits.
For those who prefer not to drive, the museum is also easily accessible by public transportation.
The nearest train station is at Le Bourget, just a short walk from the museum’s main entrance.
Several bus lines serve the museum, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the Paris metropolitan area.
Whether driving or taking public transportation, the National Air and Space Museum France is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation and space exploration.
With its incredible collections, interactive exhibits, and educational programs, the museum offers a unique and inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.
National Air and Space Museum Directions
The National Air and Space Museum is located at Le Bourget airport, just outside Paris.
The airport is easily accessible by car, train, and public transportation.
By Car
If you’re driving, the museum is about 12 miles northeast of Paris.
Take the A1 motorway and follow the signs for Le Bourget airport.
Once you’re at the airport, follow the signs for the museum, which is located near the main entrance.
By Train
A train station serves Le Bourget airport on the RER B line, which connects with several major train stations in Paris, including Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, and Saint-Michel Notre-Dame.
From the airport train station, it’s a short walk to the museum.
By Public Transportation
The museum is also easily accessible by bus. Several bus lines serve Le Bourget airport, including lines 152, 350, and 615.
Check the RATP website for schedules and route maps.
Once you arrive at the airport, the museum is near the main entrance, just a short walk from the terminal.
Look for the large hangar with the distinctive airplane-shaped roof, and you’ll know you’ve arrived.
National Air and Space Museum Location and Map Link
If you’re using a GPS or map app, the museum’s address is:
You can use this map link to view the museum’s location and nearby landmarks, as well as to get directions from your current location.
Getting to the National Air and Space Museum is a breeze, no matter how you travel.
So plan your visit today and get ready to explore the wonders of aviation and space exploration at one of the world’s premier museums.
Final thoughts
The National Air and Space Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation and space exploration.
Its extensive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, engines, and artifacts offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history and technology of flight.
With its convenient location, ample parking, and easy access by public transportation, the museum is a great day trip.
Whether you’re a die-hard aviation enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational outing for the family, the National Air and Space Museum is sure to impress.
So don’t miss your chance to explore the skies and beyond at this incredible museum.
It’s one of the best passes that enables you to see so many museums without having to spend a fortune.
But it’s likely that these passes will sell out soon due to their popularity (especially the 6-day Pass).
So, don’t wait and purchase your Paris Museum Pass now.
| Note: “Ready to discover more amazing attractions? Click here to explore new destinations and plan your next adventure!” |
FAQs
Is the National Air and Space Museum of France still under construction?
Fear not! The National Air and Space Museum of France is fully operational, and ready to take you on an exciting journey through the history of aviation and space exploration.
With a vast collection of aircraft and spacecraft, as well as interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Which is the best aviation museum in France?
Without a doubt, the National Air and Space Museum of France is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts.
This incredible museum, located at the historic Le Bourget airport, boasts an extensive collection of aircraft and spacecraft, as well as interactive exhibits that bring the history of flight and space exploration to life.
When is the museum open?
The National Air and Space Museum of France is open every day except Monday, from 10am to 5pm.
Whether you’re an aviation buff or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, this museum is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
And who knows, you may just find your new favorite aircraft or spacecraft along the way!
Featured Image: Museeairespace.fr