Munich, known for its cultural vibrancy and rich history, has a special treat for families fascinated with the skies. The Flugwerft Schleissheim, part of Munich's esteemed Deutsches Museum, is an aviation museum that captivates young minds and adults alike. It's not just a walk through history but a journey into the evolution of flight.
Housed in a spacious airfield just north of Munich, this aviation museum offers a rare up-close look at over 70 aircraft spanning the advent of air travel to modern-day technological marvels. Imaginations take flight as visitors can virtually climb into the cockpit of historical planes and get a window into the world of aviation pioneers.
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The museum's interactive displays, including aircraft you can touch and simulators you can pilot, turn a family outing into an adventure. Whether marveling at the engineering prowess behind the Eurofighter or experiencing the simple elegance of early gliders, the museum ensures a soaring experience for all. It's where history blends with technology, creating an engaging encounter with aviation for families exploring Munich.
Collections and Exhibitions
The Flugwerft Schleissheim in Munich is a treasure trove for families intrigued by the wonders of flight. The museum displays an impressive array of aircraft, engines, and aviation-related artifacts. It offers an extensive look into the aeronautical achievements that soar beyond the ordinary, with dedicated zones for kids to engage with the marvels of aviation.
The Permanent Exhibitions cover a vast aviation history, offering an immersive experience of civil and military aviation developments. Families can marvel at the Eurofighter, a pinnacle of modern technology, and the Antonov AN-2, the largest single-engine biplane ever produced. The historical evolution from the Lilienthal glider to rockets is displayed, educating visitors on aviation milestones.
Specially curated Special Exhibitions are periodically organized to engage visitors with thematic presentations on aviation. These exhibitions may feature rare aircraft engines such as the Jumo 004 and Orenda 14, which bridged significant technological gaps in aeronautics. Keep an eye out for short-term exhibitions highlighting unique aspects of aviation history.
Behind the scenes are the Restoration Projects, where enthusiasts and experts work diligently to preserve historical aircraft and engines. Witness the passion infused into restoring models like the Lockheed F-104G Starfighter or the Bristol Orpheus 703 engine. These projects keep history alive, ensuring priceless artifacts can continue to tell their stories.
Highlights
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Among the numerous historical pieces, the highlights include the following:
- The majestic Panavia Tornado IDS.
- The Bavarian Air Force exhibition.
- The collaborative-constructed Akaflieg Karlsruhe AK-1 glider.
Each exhibit showcases the innovative spirit that drives aviation evolution and offers a deeper appreciation for the technologies that help us conquer the skies.
Family-friendly features
Flugwerft Schleissheim ensures a family-friendly atmosphere with interactive features tailored for kids. Helicopters and gliders are displayed alongside educational material explaining the science behind flight. Children-friendly explanations of piston engines and hands-on exhibits, such as the Europa rocket, captivate young ones' imaginations and introduce them to the fascinating world of aeronautics.
The Flugwerft Schleissheim Aviation Museum is an unforgettable experience focused on the rich tapestry of aeronautical innovation.
Unique selling points include:
- It is an authentic historical airfield setting.
- Restoration projects.
- Interactive exhibits like the Lilienthal glider and Eurofighter.
Must-see exhibits include the pioneering Tumansky R-29 and versatile C-160. Insider tips suggest starting the visit early to enjoy the extensive collection fully and taking advantage of the displays outside for some fresh air and rest. The museum is accessible for families with strollers, providing an accommodating environment for visitors of all ages.
Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Photo: deutsches-museum.de
Aviation Museum is worth visiting with kids, especially for those aged 5 to 12, as it turns history lessons into a sky-high adventure. The Flugwerft Schleissheim, a branch of the Deutsches Museum, offers a family-fun experience where children can marvel at the diversity of aircraft, from wooden gliders to modern jets.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Many displays are interactive, allowing kids to climb into cockpits and push buttons, giving them the feeling of being young pilots soaring through the clouds.
- Educational Workshops: The museum's dedicated learning areas make flight mechanics easier to grasp.
- Awe-Inspiring Displays: With more than 70 aircraft, including a rare Dornier 31, children's imaginations will be ignited by the range of aviation marvels.
The children's capacity for amazement, paired with the museum's dynamic environment, ensures an informative and captivating visit. It's a breezy half-hour drive from Munich, but this flight into aeronautical history is a journey they're likely to remember.
Jump House, a play and sports center, is 7 km away from the museum, where kids will love to let out their excess energy.
Best Time to Visit
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Munich's aviation museum is a delightful journey through the skies, perfect for families looking to stoke the flames of curiosity in their little explorers. Timing your visit is key to thoroughly enjoying the interactive exhibits and immersive experiences.
Weekdays, particularly in the morning, are typically less crowded. It allows families to meander through the various aircraft and educational displays without the hustle and bustle. It's not just about avoiding the crowds — visitors may find that staff have more time to answer those inquisitive questions from keen young minds.
Aim to visit between Tuesday and Friday for a truly smooth landing, arriving as doors open at 9:00 AM. This schedule avoids school groups that often come later and grants a more personal space to engage with the wonders of aviation history at Flugwerft Schleißheim.
Weekends can be busy, so if attending a weekend is a must, try to be there early, turning the visit into a sunny stroll among legendary aircraft.
How Long Does It Take to Attend
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A trip to the Flugwerft Schleißheim, Munich's cherished aviation museum, is a fantastic way for families to dive into aviation history. Visitors typically spend between half a day to a full day at the museum, which opens its doors to a journey back in time from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Morning Whirlwind: (3-4 hours)
- Quick visit: Highlights, kids' favorite exhibitions
- Picnic break: Family time in outdoor areas (weather permitting)
- Gift shop dash: Souvenir gathering
- Full Day Flight: (5-7 hours)
- In-depth exploration: Detailed viewing of exhibits
- Lunch stop: Casual dining at the museum's café
- Interactive experiences: Kid-friendly activities and presentations
- Leisurely pace: Ample time for photos and rest
For families with small children, the pace is often more relaxed, with frequent snack breaks and time needed to answer the young ones' curious questions. It's a day out that combines education with entertainment, so lace up those comfy shoes and prepare to marvel at more than 70 airborne inventions. Just check the museum's event schedule in advance for special demonstrations that could be a highlight for the little aviators in your squad.
