Day Trip: Explore History at Lyon Air Museum in Orange County

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The Lyon Air Museum, located next to the runway at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, is housed in a thirty-thousand-square-foot hangar designed to display William Lyons’s collection of historic aircraft, military vehicles, and motorcycles. What sets Lyon Air Museum apart is that all aircraft have been restored and are in near-new condition, making it a must-see attraction for any aviation buff. Lyon Air Museum is an affordable day trip destination in Orange County, California, offering great value for money.

Lyon Air Museum Collection

Aircraft on display include a B-17 Flying Fortress, which once transported Dwight Eisenhower and Douglas MacArthur, an A-2B Invader, a North American B-25, and a DC-3 aircraft, which dropped paratroopers on D-day. In addition to the historic planes, numerous antique automobiles are on display, including a 1939 Mercedes Benz German Staff Car that was once delivered to Adolf Hitler. An original Helms Bakery delivery truck and several historic motorcycles are also displayed.

John Wayne Airport

After exploring the main gallery, visitors can get a bird’s eye view from the upper level of John Wayne Airport’s runway and watch modern jet planes taking off through the vast glass doors that line the hangar. For larger groups, guided tours are available with advance notice. Volunteer guides are available to answer any questions about the museum’s collection. The museum occasionally offers flight experiences, allowing you to ride in one of these historic planes during special event days.

Getting Lyon Air Museum

The Lyon Air Museum in Santa Ana, California, is a unique aviation museum open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. It is located at 19300 Ike Jones Road, Santa Ana, California. Admission to the Museum is affordable, with discounts given to seniors, children, and the military. Stop by and check out this fascinating hidden gem; you will not be disappointed. https://lyonairmuseum.org/

Nearby Points of Interest

A visit to the Lyon Air Museum will take approximately two hours, leaving you time to explore the surrounding area. Here are a few nearby places that are worth a visit.

Newport Beach Bay Loop Trail: A paved trail runs along the south side of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve. The area spans 752 acres and features marshlands and massive bluffs, making it one of the few estuaries remaining in Southern California. The Newport Beach Back Bay Loop trail is just under three miles long, stretching from the vista viewpoint on East Bluff Drive to Newport Dunes Resort.
Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary Irvine: The sanctuary covers over 300 acres along the San Diego Creek before it flows into Upper Newport Bay. There are several miles of trails to explore, but pick up a map at the visitor center as it is easy to get lost. Admission to the sanctuary is free. https://www.irwd.com/san-joaquin-marsh/sanjoaquinmarsh
Lab Anti Mall Costa Mesa, California: The LAB Anti-Mall is known for its outdoor, hipster setting across the street from its sister property, The CAMP. The mall is open daily and has a selection of interesting shopping and dining options. https://www.thelab.com/