The structure was designed by architect Joseph Finger and completed in 1940, representing a premier example of Art Deco municipal architecture in Texas.
The terminal served as the first commercial airport facility for Houston before operations shifted to Hobby Airport.
The museum building was saved from demolition after a multi-year restoration project led by the Houston Aeronautical Heritage Society.
The museum grounds include an outdoor display of vintage aircraft and flight equipment.
The facility was used as a filming location for the 1991 movie 'The Man in the Moon'.
It holds one of the most comprehensive collections of documents and photos related to the history of Houston's commercial aviation.
The 1940 Air Terminal Museum is housed within the original Art Deco Houston Municipal Airport terminal building, which served as the city's primary aviation gateway during the 1940s. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and showcases the history of civil aviation in Houston. Visitors can explore preserved administrative offices, ticket counters, and a restored boarding area that retains its mid-century character. The museum's collection features historical artifacts, aviation memorabilia, and rotating exhibits dedicated to flight technology and local airline history. It operates in proximity to current airport operations, providing a direct view of modern aircraft. The museum is maintained by the Houston Aeronautical Heritage Society.
The restored Art Deco entrance and the view from the second-floor observation balcony.
Bring binoculars for spotting aircraft activity on the adjacent runways.
Check the museum website for 'Wings & Wheels' event dates, which bring vintage cars and planes to the tarmac.
Walk the outdoor observation deck for the best vantage point of current commercial flight operations.
Do not attempt to walk onto the active airfield or cross marked security boundaries.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Maintain a respectful volume inside the historic terminal; follow all posted signage regarding restricted tarmac areas.
