Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, Cape May
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
4.5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Naval Air Station Wildwood Foundation is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to restore Hangar #1 at the Cape May Airport, Cape May County, New Jersey, into an aircraft museum honoring the Navy airmen who died while training during World War II. Hangar # 1 was listed onto the National Register of Historic Places in September of 1997. Naval Air station (NAS) Wildwood was commissioned on April 1, 1943. The site served as an active dive-bomber squadron training facility from 1943 to 1945. Aircraft stationed at NAS Wildwood included TBM Avengers, Douglas Dauntlesses, Vought Corsairs and Curtiss Helldivers. Forty-two airmen perished while training at NAS Wildwood during World War II. In June 1997, NASW Foundation purchased Hangar #1 at the Cape May Airport. The 92,000 square-foot all-wooden structure was in a state of disrepair and required extensive renovation. Under the stewardship of NASW Foundation, the hangar was listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places at the National Significance Level. NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum now boasts over 26 aircraft displays as well as exhibits of military memorabilia, engines, photographs and more. Additionally, the Franklin Institute of Philadelphia has provided NAS Wildwood with a wealth of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to discover the science of flight. The museum also features a library, food vending area as well as a recently expanded gift shop. In its role as a community resource, NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum regularly hosts activities including fly-ins, aviation festivals, big band concerts, swing dances, veterans’ ceremonies, historical lectures, school field trips and senior tours.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
76 within 3 miles

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177
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1.6 mi$$ - $$$ • American

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Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
923 reviews
Excellent
648
Very good
233
Average
33
Poor
5
Terrible
4
Steve B
New Jersey3 contributions
The exhibits were much more than we expected. We thought we would only be there an hour and actually spent 3 hours looking at the exhibits and reading all the information. This was so much better than I had anticipated and would go back again.
We met the founder Joe Salvatore (a retired MD from NYC and northern NJ). His passion and knowledge were so refreshing and informative. The exhibits range from early aviation to the modern day.
There is something for everyone here and you can actually climb into some of the cockpits to get a feel of what it was like, making the experience even better.
The only note I have is that if you go off season bring something a bit warm as there is no heat in the building.
A true piece of history about the naval station in Wildwood during WWII and military aviation in general.
Don't miss the opportunity to go if you have the chance
We met the founder Joe Salvatore (a retired MD from NYC and northern NJ). His passion and knowledge were so refreshing and informative. The exhibits range from early aviation to the modern day.
There is something for everyone here and you can actually climb into some of the cockpits to get a feel of what it was like, making the experience even better.
The only note I have is that if you go off season bring something a bit warm as there is no heat in the building.
A true piece of history about the naval station in Wildwood during WWII and military aviation in general.
Don't miss the opportunity to go if you have the chance
Written February 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Anne Meintel
1 contribution
Cape May and Wildwood have so much to do and see that we almost missed this amazing attraction. We've often eaten breakfast at the Flight Deck Diner in the Cape May Airport which has the best breakfast in the area. Afterwards we would watch the planes take off and land. We would view the Viet Nam exhibit as well remembering this horrific war. This time we decided to view the NASW Aviation Museum, We had just watched the Top Gun movie and had read that the F14 Tom Cat is at them museum. We were in awe of how many planes and artifacts that were on display. While being amazed at the size of the F14 we spent over two hours seeing everything the museum offered. My husband is a retired Navy man and he hasn't stopped talking about all we saw. This is something that brings history to life. I hope families take advantage of this opportunity. What a great place for a school trip for a real history lesson.
Written July 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
arubaphil
Kinnelon, NJ502 contributions
When visiting Cape May, my wife and I explored the Naval Air Station Museum. The day was very interesting as it began with a film about the history of the Air Station during WWII. The exhibits ranged from WWII fighter planes, jets, helicopters and many other aviation artifacts. This is a very interesting way to spend a few hours to experience WWII history and the brave members of the military that we should all be proud of. Definitely worth the visit.
Written September 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Michele W
6 contributions
I am not a history buff by a long short, but this place is amazing! So much to learn about what went on in one of our favorite shore towns. The exhibits are just full of information, many other topics that relate to NASW as well. Plenty of aircraft for kids to climb into, and other interactive displays. The building itself is just amazing to look at and think about the activities that happened there! We came for the first time last year, and now it's a must do on our annual vacation to Stone Harbor!
Written August 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Justin W
Hasbrouck Heights, NJ2,694 contributions
I have never been much on Aviation Museums with their big spaces and loaded with old planes but this museum was different. The museum showcased Cape May's part in WWII and the history around the area. I had not realized what a big roll it played in both the Navy and the Marines in the area and how the locals helped the war effort.
There were all sorts of planes and displays that you could climb into, many local members who made their careers in the service and how they participated in the war and an outdoor area to admire bigger planes.
Each of the smaller kiosks gave a smaller interpretation of the war effort including people socializing at the local VFW and on the Boardwalks of Wildwood and Cape May. They even had a 9/11 display with the movie "Boatlift" on the largest Marine evacuation of people off lower Manhattan on 9/11. That was fascinating.
It is really worth the trip out to the airport to see this important part of local history.
There were all sorts of planes and displays that you could climb into, many local members who made their careers in the service and how they participated in the war and an outdoor area to admire bigger planes.
Each of the smaller kiosks gave a smaller interpretation of the war effort including people socializing at the local VFW and on the Boardwalks of Wildwood and Cape May. They even had a 9/11 display with the movie "Boatlift" on the largest Marine evacuation of people off lower Manhattan on 9/11. That was fascinating.
It is really worth the trip out to the airport to see this important part of local history.
Written September 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Karen J S
Wilmington, DE353 contributions
When visiting Cape May, we happened upon the museum via a "tourist map", an accidental thing. This museum was the highlight of our trip. It is remarkable in so many ways. We particularly enjoyed the Enigma Machine, the Coast guard section (especially the film about 911 and the boat lift off of lower Manhattan), the descriptions of particular fighter jets, the role of women in aviation, and the Tuskegee airmen. There is something for everyone at this museum. Children are welcome and so many experiences open to them. I'd recommend this remarkable museum to everyone. We plan to return and take our grandsons.
Written June 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you so much for visiting the Aviation Museum and also for the wonderful review. Please tell your friends and family and come back again soon!
Written July 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amparo S
Edison, NJ7 contributions
Couples
Museum is very educational and filled with so much history. Enjoyed our visit and learned so much about our military history as you travel back in time looking at the exhibits and reading about them. A must see.
Written July 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dennis S
1 contribution
I visited the Museum with some first time visitors and we were all so impressed with the exhibits and the respect for their history. A special thanks to Joanie at the Gift Shop / Ticket sales. Her enthusiasm and knowledge made us feel welcome. Some young boys from the nearby neighborhood wanted to enter and I offered to buy their tickets but Joanie wouldn't take money but let them in instead with a scavenger hunt history questionnaire to be completed, great idea, thanks Joanie.
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Written May 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Anders Maxwell
1 contribution
Having an interest in American military history, my wife and I visited the NAS Aviation Museum while staying in Cape May. The Museum was the highlight of our visit to Cape May. Joanie, the Museum's attendant, provided a warm welcome as well as a personal perspective. The collection includes several of America's most storied combat aircraft from WWII and aircraft and helicopters from the Vietnam conflict.
The Museum also has histories of several WWII heroes from the South Jersey area and wonderful Life Magazine cover photos from the War years.
The Museum also has histories of several WWII heroes from the South Jersey area and wonderful Life Magazine cover photos from the War years.
Written May 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
kas3912016
Key West, FL18 contributions
One of the better aviation museums I've been in and the best part is you can bring your dog! Lots of different aircraft, etc. on display with nice signs giving information about each display. Definitely worth a look if you are at all into aviation, even if you don't have a dog.
Written February 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Maria A
Rome, Italy25 contributions
Do you have to book tickets in advance?
Jason Black
Cape May, NJ4 contributions
No not necessary.
Mitali V
Clarksburg, NJ6 contributions
Are pets allowed?
Jason Black
Cape May, NJ4 contributions
Yes, friendly, leashed pets are permitted at the Aviation Museum. Thank you for asking!
pax1065
Schenectady, NY178 contributions
Is it handicap accessible?
Jason Black
Cape May, NJ4 contributions
Yes it is!
Mary Ann B
Harrisburg, PA6 contributions
What is the cost for children 6 to 10? Are there any discount coupons? What is cost for adults and Senior citizens?
Jason Black
Cape May, NJ4 contributions
Admission Fees
Adults: $12.00
Children: 3 thru 12 $10.00
Children under 3: FREE!
Active Duty Military w/ ID: FREE!
*Military dependents must pay regular admission.
Free Parking.
claimsgal
Union, NJ280 contributions
Where is located ? Hours of operation? Open all year round ?
Jason Black
Cape May, NJ4 contributions
Hours Of Operation
April 1st thru Columbus Day
Open Daily 9 AM to 5 PM
Columbus Day thru November 30th
Open Daily 9 AM to 4 PM
December 1st thru March 31st
Monday – Friday 9 AM to 4 PM
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Please Note:
Thanksgiving Day – CLOSED
Christmas Eve & Christmas Day – CLOSED
New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day – CLOSED
Judy Y
Westport, CT3 contributions
Is it open during the month of February? If so, what are the hours.
Is there a ticker price?
Jason Black
Cape May, NJ4 contributions
Yes we are open Monday thru Friday from 9am-4pm
Marlene L
Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Is there a restaurant or café onsite?
NASW_Aviation_Museum
Rio Grande, New Jersey, United States
Hi Marlene! Thank you for your interest in NASW Aviation Museum! We recently opened a small cafe above the gift shop inside the museum - it currently serves chili cheese dogs, sodas, nachos, and some small packaged items like muffins and chips. It is only open Saturdays and Sundays for the time being, from 11am-2pm. If you are looking for a more extensive menu selection there is the Flight Deck Diner right across our parking lot, and they serve from 7am - 2 pm daily. We hope you'll visit soon!
-Jen
Frequently Asked Questions about Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Hotels near Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum:
- (4.50 mi) The Sand Box Motel
- (4.61 mi) Biscayne Family Resort
- (4.61 mi) ICONA Diamond Beach
- (4.64 mi) Paradise Oceanfront Resort
- (4.62 mi) Reges Oceanfront Resort
- Restaurants near Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum:
- (0.07 mi) Flight Deck Diner
- (0.26 mi) Taco Shop
- (0.23 mi) Wingnutz
- (0.77 mi) Erma Deli & Pizzeria
- (1.47 mi) Menz Restaurant and Bar