The collection contains several aircraft that are still flight-certified and actively participate in air shows.
The museum grounds are situated on the former site of the Palm Springs Army Air Field.
The facility houses a rare Miles Martinet, which is one of the few remaining examples of this British target tug aircraft.
Some of the aircraft in the collection have appeared in major Hollywood motion pictures.
The hangar architecture is designed to allow natural light to illuminate the aircraft while protecting them from desert heat.
The museum maintains a dedicated flight simulator experience for visitors to practice aerial maneuvers.
It holds a significant collection of original nose art salvaged from combat aircraft.
The research library contains thousands of volumes specifically related to 20th-century aerial combat history.
Many of the docents are retired pilots who have personal experience flying the types of aircraft on display.
The Palm Springs Air Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of flyable World War II, Korea, and Vietnam era aircraft. The facility spans over 86,000 square feet of climate-controlled hangars plus an outdoor tarmac display area. Exhibits focus heavily on combat aviation history, featuring restored warbirds like the P-51 Mustang and B-17 Flying Fortress. The museum incorporates extensive aviation art galleries that document air warfare and veteran experiences. Many of the resident aircraft are maintained in airworthy condition and participate in flight demonstrations throughout the year. The archives include a library dedicated to military history and personal accounts from veterans. Interactive displays allow visitors to view cockpit configurations and engine mechanics up close. Volunteers, many of whom are veterans, provide guided tours and historical context regarding the combat operations of the displayed machinery.
The outdoor tarmac area, which provides a clear backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains behind the vintage aircraft.
Bring a hat and sunglasses if you plan to walk the outdoor tarmac, as the desert sun is intense.
Check the museum's flight calendar before arriving if you want to see specific warbirds in action.
Speak with the veteran docents early in your visit; they often share specific anecdotes about the aircraft on display.
Do not rush through the aviation art gallery; many visitors overlook it, but it provides essential historical context for the displayed hardware.
Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Respect all 'do not touch' signs on aircraft and sensitive artifacts; closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking on the hangar concrete.
