Kalamazoo Air Zoo: November 2023

Growing up just 15 minutes from the Air Zoo in Portage, MI—essentially in my hometown—I surprisingly only visited once as a kid. My boyfriend is really into airplanes and all things flight and space, so we decided to bring my dad along and finally check it out together.

Admission is very reasonable at about $18 for adults, with discounts for kids and seniors, and free entry for little ones under five. The Air Zoo is affiliated with the Smithsonian, which gives it an impressive mix of fun and credibility. Inside, you’ll find over 100 aircraft and spacecraft exhibits, interactive displays, and immersive experiences that make it enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

One of the most incredible highlights is the SR-71B Blackbird trainer—the only one left in the world. Out of the two ever built, the other was destroyed in 1968, which makes this aircraft an absolute treasure. This particular Blackbird logged the most flight hours of any SR-71 and even became part of NASA’s fleet after its time with the Air Force. You’ll also find other rare and iconic aircraft on display, including the F-14 Tomcat and the stealthy F-117 Nighthawk.

Beyond aircraft, the Air Zoo also dives into space exploration, showcasing displays that highlight the history of human spaceflight and giving you a glimpse into the possible future of space travel. I loved seeing how the museum blends aviation history with science, technology, and innovation.

The Air Zoo isn’t just about looking at displays—it’s highly interactive. There are hands-on STEM exhibits, immersive learning stations, and flight simulators with 3D HD effects that make you feel like you’re piloting the real thing. For families, there are also a few amusement park-style rides designed for kids, and the best part is they’re included in the admission price. It’s a great experience for both kids and adults alike.

Another unique feature is the Restoration Center, where you can actually watch skilled volunteers working on restoring historic aircraft. It’s fascinating to see pieces of aviation history being brought back to life right in front of you.

The Air Zoo also has a café and a gift shop. We didn’t try the café, but the gift shop is definitely worth a stop—it’s full of unique aviation-themed gifts, books, and souvenirs.

One exhibit I personally appreciated was the Women in Air & Space display, which celebrates the groundbreaking achievements of women in aviation and space exploration. There’s also the Black Wings exhibit, which highlights the contributions of African Americans to the aerospace industry—another nice touch that adds depth and inclusivity to the museum’s storytelling.

Even if you’re not a huge aviation enthusiast, the Air Zoo has so much to offer. Every corner, from floor to ceiling, has something to look at—whether it’s vintage aircraft, futuristic designs, or interactive STEM activities. It’s easy to spend a few hours wandering through the exhibits, learning about history, and discovering stories that shaped the world of flight and space.

Overall, the Air Zoo is an incredible experience for families, aviation lovers, and anyone curious about science and exploration. It’s entertaining, educational, and full of surprises, making it well worth the visit.