Guided by the past, but pushing toward the future, the story of Wings Over the Rockies is still being written.
Wings Over the Rockies is a diverse community organization dedicated to unlocking our visitors' dreams of flight through exhibitions, events, and educational programming at two locations: Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum and Exploration of Flight. Each year, these two locations welcome approximately 160,000 visitors representing all 50 U.S. states and 34 countries.
Transferred from the United States Air Force to a group of volunteers in 1994, Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is located in Hangar 1 of the former Lowry Air Force Base in eastern Denver, Colorado. Today, the museum boasts more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space dedicated to displaying iconic aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts, military uniforms, and much more.
When Lowry Air Force Base closed in 1994, a small group of volunteers formed the Wings Over the Rockies museum using loaned aircraft from the US Air Force Museum. Their passion for aviation and space sparked the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Wings Over the Rockies became Colorado's official air and space museum in 1997. Over the years, the collection expanded and diversified to include spacecraft and civilian aircraft, capturing the imagination of visitors from around the world. In 2011, the museum underwent further enhancements, including a new entrance area and the installation of the enormous Boeing B-52 on pedestals.
Today, the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum offers an incredible range of interactive experiences alongside its world-class historical exhibits. Visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of aviation and space exploration, touching the past while being inspired by the possibilities of the future. With its commitment to excellence, Wings Over the Rockies has gained recognition as one of the best aviation and space museums in the world.
Located roughly 19 miles south of Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, Exploration of Flight is a 15-acre campus set on one of the busiest general aviation airports in the nation. Through aviation-focused events, programming, and exhibits, Exploration of Flight offers an immersive, educational experience for those fascinated by flight, as well as a unique perspective for those already in the industry.
In 2014, Wings Over the Rockies broke ground for its second location, the Exploration of Flight campus at Centennial Airport. The vision behind this expansion was to create a space that would further engage visitors and provide a deeper understanding of the wonders of flight. This new campus would offer even more opportunities for exploration and education.
Exploration of Flight opened its doors in July 2018, inviting visitors to embark on an awe-inspiring journey. The campus hums with realistic flight simulators, interactive experiences that leave lasting impressions, and historical exhibits that shed light on the remarkable progress in aviation and aerospace. The addition of the Colorado SKIES Academy in 2019, an aerospace-focused middle school, further reinforces the commitment to nurturing the next generation's passion for flight.
With the Air & Space Museum and the Exploration of Flight campus working hand in hand, Wings Over the Rockies has evolved into one of the world's premier aviation and space facilities. The combination of these two locations offers visitors an unparalleled experience, where they can witness the marvels of the past, engage with the present, and be inspired by the endless possibilities of the future.
The Air & Space Museum, with its rich collection and interactive exhibits, allows visitors to delve into the fascinating history of aviation and space exploration. From iconic aircraft to space vehicles and military uniforms, the museum showcases artifacts that tell captivating stories. The exhibits not only educate but also ignite the imagination, leaving visitors in awe of the remarkable achievements in flight.
One of the highlights of the Air & Space Museum is the Boeing B-52, a massive aircraft that stands proudly on pedestals, symbolizing the incredible feats of engineering and innovation. As visitors walk through the museum's vast exhibit space, they are immersed in a world where dreams take flight.
But Wings Over the Rockies didn't stop at the Air & Space Museum alone. Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive and immersive experience, the organization embarked on a new venture: Exploration of Flight.
Situated just south of the Air & Space Museum, Exploration of Flight is a 15-acre campus nestled within the bustling Centennial Airport. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to witness aviation in action, as it is situated on one of the busiest general aviation airports in the nation.
The campus of Exploration of Flight has been meticulously designed to provide an educational and captivating experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. Here, visitors can step into flight simulators and feel the adrenaline rush of piloting an aircraft. The realistic simulations give them a taste of what it's like to soar through the skies.
In addition to the flight simulators, the campus houses a range of exhibits that explore the wonders of aviation. From the evolution of aircraft design to the exploration of space, these exhibits offer a comprehensive look at the history and future of flight. Visitors can marvel at the technological advancements that have shaped the industry and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by pioneers in the field.
The synergy between the Air & Space Museum and the Exploration of Flight campus has solidified Wings Over the Rockies as a global leader in aviation and space facilities. The organization's commitment to providing an exceptional experience for visitors, combined with its dedication to education and community engagement, has garnered recognition from aviation enthusiasts worldwide.
In conclusion, the history of Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is a testament to the passion and dedication of a small group of volunteers who transformed a former Air Force base into a world-class institution. Through their unwavering commitment, they have created a space where dreams take flight and where the wonders of aviation and space exploration come alive. With its two locations, the Air & Space Museum and the Exploration of Flight campus, Wings Over the Rockies continues to inspire and captivate visitors, unlocking their dreams of flight and shaping the future of aerospace.
What can I expect to see at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum?
The museum showcases a diverse collection of aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts, and military uniforms. You can also enjoy interactive experiences and world-class historical exhibits.
Where is the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum located?
The museum is located in Hangar 1 of the former Lowry Air Force Base in eastern Denver, Colorado.
What is the Exploration of Flight campus?
The Exploration of Flight campus is a 15-acre site situated at Centennial Airport, approximately 19 miles south of the Air & Space Museum. It offers immersive aviation experiences, programming, and exhibits.
Can I try flying a simulated aircraft at Exploration of Flight?
Yes, the campus features realistic flight simulators that allow visitors to experience the thrill of piloting an aircraft.
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Directions from Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum to Palmercare Chiropractic Lakewood
Directions from Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum to Forney Museum
12051 W Alameda Parkway #D4
Lakewood, CO 80228
(303) 985-5540
