Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum

There’s an attraction on your Florida getaway steeped in history, immersive activities, and fun for all ages. Welcome to The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum!

This destination is on the National Register of Historic Places and the Florida Heritage Site. The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum is perfect for history buffs or those interested in America’s naval aviation. 

The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum has exhibits showcasing naval aviation history. The museum focuses primarily on the airmen and crew of World War II who protected the naval station and Floridians.

One of the most intriguing and mystifying elements of the Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum is the Flight 19 exhibit. Guests learn the story of five Avenger torpedo bombers that left NAS Fort Lauderdale in 1945 and vanished into the Bermuda Triangle. Stories abound about what happened, and to date, the planes have never been found.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

The Naval Air Station was active from October 1942 through October 1946, when pilots underwent combat training and flight maneuvering for WWII. 

Another interesting fact is that President George H.W. Bush was stationed at the base and underwent training as a torpedo bomber pilot.

There are many exhibits to check out at The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum, including the John Payne Memorial Library. If you love books, then this is the exhibit for you! Guests can peruse thousands of volumes of military history books, war diaries, letters, cruise books, magazines, and much more. There is also a massive photography collection with over 10,000 images of ships, planes, and artwork.

For an immersive flight experience, check out the Link Trainer Flight Simulator, a historic mechanical and engineering landmark. And sure to check out the recreated soldier’s barracks featuring the George Bush Room.

The Flight 19 Memorial is a wonderful tribute to the men of that fateful flight. The award-winning Butterfly Garden adds a beautiful touch to this sentimental experience. 

Visiting the Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum on your Fort Lauderdale vacation will be educational and give you a greater appreciation for those serving in the military. 

Getting There

Here are directions to The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum from downtown: 

• Get on I-595 W from S Andrews Ave and SW 2nd St.
• Continue on I-595 W. 
• Take I-95 S and FL-818 W/Griffin Rd to Perimeter Rd.
• Use the right lane to turn slightly right onto Perimeter Rd.
• Address: 4000 W Perimeter Rd.

There is a parking lot on the south side of the museum.

Cost

There is no cost to visit; however, the museum operates solely on contributions and encourages donations as an admission fee.