For centuries, humans have dreamed of flight. Since ancient times, flying high above land and through the clouds was thought of as a dream rather than reality. Even the Ancient Greek story of Icarus highlights these ideas as someone who has his own wings. Many years later, Leonardo da Vinci set his sights on human flight by inventing many contraptions to assist with this adventurous idea. However, while he made several inventions for flying, a common misunderstanding is that da Vinci invented the helicopter. At first glance at this sketch, it certainly looks like a helicopter. But the reality is that it was an invention for a stage prop to help lower the actors down from the “sky” to seem like they were flying. Nevertheless, this specific invention still speaks of the grand idea of humans taking flight. It would not be until 1783 when Jean-Francois Pilatre de Rozier and Francois Laurent completed the world’s first manned flight. From there, it was not until the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, became the first to achieve sustained flight in a heavier-than-air machine. The rest, as they say, is history.
In McMinnville, Oregon is the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum. This incredible interactive museum provides a wide range of activities and educational opportunities about taking flight. There are several exhibits currently on display, one of them covering airplanes and spaceships. These real-life, in-person flight machines are so astonishing they will entertain your kids and yourselves. One of these planes is the Blackbird SR-71, which flies more than 2,000 miles per hour. Another plane is the F-117 Nighthawk, the world’s first operational stealth aircraft. They also have the Titan II, the primary vehicle for the American Gemini program, an early NASA venture. This aircraft is the only remaining example of a Titan II SLV and one of only a handful still in existence. These airplanes and rocket ships are great examples of human innovation and perseverance. Seeing pictures of them online does not do these creations any justice compared to seeing them in person.
What the McMinnville Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum is most known for is the Spruce Goose. You have probably even seen it if you have ever driven by their museum. The Spruce Goose is the world’s largest wooden airplane, with a wingspan of over 300 feet. The idea for this massive airplane was conceived during World War II with the thought of helping to transport American troops. At the time of its creation, the Spruce Goose was six times larger than any other aircraft at the time. However, this very large wooden airplane only flew once, on November 2, 1947, in Long Beach, California. Now, the Spruce Goose lives at the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, which visitors can enjoy and be astonished at its sheer size. The Spruce Goose is a wonderful example of our American history and reflects the importance of teamwork in regard to accomplishing our goals. If this wooden airplane looks large to you while driving past it on the highway, just wait until you see it up close.
There is much more going on at this museum than just looking at various spacecraft. Their Aerodrome Giant Screen Theater offers entertaining short 3D films such as Space: A New Frontier, Air Racers, Fighter Pilot, Journey to Space, Rescue, Earthflight, and Aircraft Carrier. Their 3D movie showings run at the beginning of the hour, starting at noon on weekends. The last showing is at 1:00 PM. The Aerodrome Giant Screen Theater is also available to rent out for private parties. This museum also has an innovative flight simulator that allows you to “fly” the Spruce Goose, the F18 Fighter Jet, or other WWII Fighter airplanes. For food options, the museum has its Aviator Café, which offers selections such as sandwiches, hot dogs, and other treats. There is a lot of space to explore at this museum, so even on their more crowded days, it does not feel like it.
There are many other things to do at this museum. Another option worth mentioning is the Carlton Observatory, which showcases all of its telescopes, including one that is more than 135 years old. You can also rent out all or a portion of the museum for birthday parties and other events. Furthermore, this coming Friday, 2/21, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Saturday, 2/22, from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM, they will be hosting an all-ages Wicked: The Musical Sing-Along and Costume Party. This event will be a ton of fun and should not be missed. The museum is open every day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and wintertime ticket pricing is $22 for Adults, $20 for Seniors and Veterans, $12 for Children from the ages 5 to 12, and kids 5 and under are free. This space and aviation museum is sure to entertain and inspire those who visit it. If you are looking for a new, unique family outing, this museum should be at the top of your list.
Alex is a devoted husband and father born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He is a professional artist, author, and advisor for both Yale and Harvard University’s arts departments. His book, ‘Selling Leonardo: The Art World’s Greatest Scandal’ is available wherever books are sold.