If you like airplanes, helicopters, and jet aircraft or have someone in your family who does, this is the place for you.   The Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) Aviation Museum is a non-profit museum located at the Cape May Airport inside historic Hangar #1. It was restored and transformed into a 92,000 square foot museum after World War II. 

The best part is the over 26 planes and helicopters you can see up close.   You and your kids can enjoy exploring walking around and in several of the aircrafts.  There are some you can even sit inside the cockpit. There are lots of opportunities for a great photo with the planes up close.  They also have several engines you can see and learn more about.  The exhibits and photos displayed really give you a sense of the time period.  

There is a real air traffic control tower you can climb for a bird’s eye view of the planes and listen to real air traffic chatter.  You can try being a pilot with their flight simulator game.    They also have several unique exhibits featuring life in the 1940s, the Science of Flight, and a Coast Guard exhibit area.  

It is $12 for adults, $10 for kids, and free for 3 and under.  They are only open during the week through March.  They open 7 days a week starting in April until mid-October.  There is Flight Deck Diner on site if you want to grab lunch while you are there.  You’ll definitely want to bring the kids to this fun hands-on museum but don’t forget your camera!   Also next door is the Forgotten Warriors Vietnam Museum which is also very interesting if you have the time to wander through it.