Day Trip Tankland American Military Museum El Monte

Tankland. as locals know it, officially named the American Military Museum, is an outdoor museum in South El Monte, California, that features tanks, military vehicles, artillery, and artifacts. In all, there are 180 exhibits on display in various states of disrepair.

Some better-preserved vehicles are rented out for movies, television shows, music videos, and special events. Most of the collection sits in rows on a dusty lot near Whittier Narrows Recreation Area. Every nook and cranny is filled with military artifacts, large and small.

If you are interested in tanks or military vehicles, then Tankland is a must-see. On display are tanks from World War 2 up to Operation Desert Storm. Some are in better shape than others, but all have a story to tell. Visitors can carry a binder that goes into detail about each exhibit.

Highlights of Tankland include M-47 “Patton” Medium Tank, M551 “Sheridan” Light Tank, M5A1 “Stuart” Light Tank, and an M53 155mm Self-Propelled Gun. There are also jeeps, trucks, flak cannons, amphibious vehicles, half-tracks, and a helicopter. Plus, dozens of more minor artifacts, from helmets to shell casings.

Plan on spending more than an hour at Tankland if you are a history buff. The museum is only open to the public on Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Admission is $5.00 for adults, $4.00 for Seniors/ Vets, Kids 5 -9, and one dollar.

Address: 1918 Rosemead Blvd. South El Monte, California. Website.

If you like Tank land, you will love the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum in Vista, California.

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