Our city of Chino is home to countless experiences for residents and visitors, from restaurants to museums there is always something interesting to do. When it comes to history and museums, one of the most popular destinations is the Planes of Fame Air Museum.
History of Planes of Fame
Founded by Ed Maloney on January 12, 1957 in Claremont California, Planes of Fame is a chain of museums rich with aviation history. This museum shows aircrafts and artifacts that deserve to be discovered by all ages. The mission for the museum is to “preserve aviation history, inspire an interest in aviation, educate the public and honor aviation pioneers and veterans.” After its first location opened in Claremont in 1957, five years later the facility had run out of room. They then relocated to Ontario Airport in Ontario, California to occupy two hangars to give a larger home to the collection.
In 1974 the facility in Chino was established, and the museum was renamed to "Planes of Fame". Since then, Planes of Fame has grown even more by adding more restoration work, starting an annual Airshow, contributing towards movies and television shows, and expanding to Arizona. Today, Chino still acts as a home base for operations.
The Museum
On a 14-acre property, the museum is comprised of seven hangars to hold the collection, as well as many additional buildings to make up the facility– it is no mystery why Planes of Fame is a main attraction when it comes to history and learning. As visitors you can walk through the hangars to learn more and view the collection, as well as visit the Aviation Discovery Center, Research Library, Model Room, and Theater.
Collection
Between the Chino and Arizona locations, Planes of Fame displays close to 160 unique aircrafts of many different varieties. From aircrafts that can still be in use, static ones that are just on display, ones that are being restored and more, museum visitors gain a complete experience viewing all types of aircrafts to learn more about aviation history. The Museum also displays several military vehicles such as tanks and trucks from the World War II era. They have been restored and are sometimes used in public events such as reenactments and parades.
Aviation Discovery Center
Perfect for all ages, this section of the museum is an immersive, educational experience to give a hands-on way of viewing aviation. There are staff members available for demonstrations and more. This is the most popular with children and families. Whether you want to attend the annual airshow, take your children, go on a weekend adventure, or simply go on your own, the Planes of Fame Museum is the perfect place to spend your time learning something new and discovering more about aviation in Chino, California.
Chino Self Storage – The Most Fly Storage in Town!
If you're looking for a place to store your items, then you owe it to yourself to come check out Chino Self Storage! Our newly completed facility is now open and we would love to have you stop by and talk about the Planes of Fame Museum. Whether you are storing your collection of aviation memorabilia or your entire house, we are here to assist with our wide range of self storage units. Backed by a company that has been in business over 40 years, we are happy to serve our community's self storage needs!
Note: Please make sure to check with Planes of Fame on their hours of operation and policies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Planes of Fame Air Museum
14998 Cal Aero Drive
Chino, CA 91710-9085
(909) 597-3722
PlanesOfFame.org
