The Museum of Flight

Located just south of Seattle in the city of Tukwila is the Museum of Flight, the largest aviation and space museum on the West Coast. The museum houses one of the largest and most comprehensive air and space collections in the United States. Collections include millions of rare photographs and negatives, tens of thousands of artifacts, and over 150 rare aircraft and space vehicles. The museum also has a library with thousands of books, magazines, and manuals.

Best and worst time to go to the Museum of Flight
Weekdays are generally the least crowded time to visit the museum, especially during the school year.

Must see/do at the Museum of Flight
Tour the Space Shuttle Trainer Crew Compartment. The 30-minute tour costs extra but you get to experience the Space Shuttle Trainer where astronauts trained for every Space Shuttle mission. Minimum age for the tour is 10. Space is limited.

Admission to the Museum of Flight
The museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adult admission is $20, with a $3 discount for seniors and active military members. Children ages 5 to 17 pay $12, with younger children free. Group tours are also available.

Parking and public transportation at the Museum of Flight
You can park free in a lot adjacent to the museum, with limited parking next to the Library and Airpark and Aviation High School. King County Metro bus #124 stops directly in front of the museum.

Food at the Museum of Flight
Wings Cafe offers a variety of high-quality, quick sandwiches, salads, hot food, snacks, and beverages.

Insider tip for visitors to the Museum of Flight
On the first Thursday of each month, the museum stays open until 9 p.m., with free admission starting at 5 p.m.

Author's bio: Carol Wiley is a freelance writer in Seattle. She offers services ranging from articles and blog posts to customer case studies and white papers for businesses.