Whether or not you're a World War II or aeroplane buff, the Lyon Air Museum is an enlightening experience that will entertain most. Spend an entire afternoon ogling the chassis of vintage aircraft and cars, and learn a thing or two about them from the attentive curators.
Work your way through the impressive array of planes which saw action during World War II. Marvel at the B-17 Flying Fortress named Fuddy Duddy, an aircraft which once carried General Dwight D. Eisenhower. It also starred in a number of World War II films including Steve McQueen flick The War Lover. Pull a face next to the Cessna Birddog, a light aircraft with teeth painted onto its front. See the B-25J Mitchell, a handsome yet devastating attack aircraft, which flew combat patrol missions in Alaska. Every plane on display at the Lyon Air Museum is fully functioning. On special days, they're taken up by pilots. If you're eager to see a plane in action, check the website or call ahead.
Once you’ve finished with the winged wonders, set your sights on the museum's other vehicles. Among the cars, there is a G4 touring wagon used by Adolf Hitler, a pristine 1947 Lincoln and an old bakery truck fitted with wooden drawers for stocking bread and pastries.
Further your knowledge of vintage military vehicles by chatting with a curator about the collection of jeeps, including an array of United States models, and a 1939 German VID. Finish up at the military motorcycles section, which boasts a 1945 Indian 'Chief', a 1943 Japanese Rikuo, and a 1943 German NSU.
Lyon Air Museum is located alongside the tarmac of John Wayne Airport, about a 10-minute drive from the California coast and South Coast Plaza, or 15 minutes from downtown Santa Ana. Free parking is provided, and a number of public buses run to the airport. The museum is open every day, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
