National Aerospace Museum

The National Aerospace Museum sits in the Lo Espejo neighborhood, just south of central Santiago and not far from the city’s main airport—making it accessible for both tourists and locals. Admissions are reasonably priced, with the bonus of free entry on select days each month. While weekends and holiday periods can bring lively crowds and bustling school groups, quieter weekday afternoons offer a peaceful way to step among historic aircraft. A little planning goes a long way: bring snacks if traveling with children, and check ahead for guided tour schedules.

• Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons, especially in spring (September–November) for pleasant weather and smaller crowds.
• How to get there: Reach the museum by taxi, rideshare, or subway/bus combination. The Cerrillos Metro stop connects with several bus routes for an easy 20-minute walk.
• Accessibility: Mostly accessible for families with strollers and seniors. Outdoor areas can feature uneven ground—bring comfortable shoes.
• Average visit duration: Two to three hours cover most highlights without feeling rushed.

With over thirty full-size aircraft parked both inside and outside the main hangars, the museum’s collection feels part airfield, part playground. Historic biplanes, sleek fighter jets, and even replicas of the Wright brothers’ earliest creations share space with helicopters and Chilean Air Force memorabilia. Curious minds can climb stairs to peer into cockpits, while aviation fans might find architectural details—like the retro mosaic mural in the central hall—worth a close look. Some areas highlight local pioneers in flight, underscoring Chile’s unique place in Latin American aerospace history. The sprawling outdoor yard, with Andes views in the background, tempts travelers to linger for photos or quiet wonder.

• Key sights or features: Chile’s last DC-3 Dakota; the ‘Huemul’ jet prototype; a rare F-5 Tiger fighter; and hands-on flight simulators for all ages.
• Unique experiences: Stand inches from the nosecones of retired military jets; explore the replica of “Manuel Rodriguez,” the country’s first Chilean-built airplane.
• Photo-worthy locations: The line of helicopters with city skyline views; the open-door cockpit displays; and the mural of astronaut Claude Nicollier.
• Cultural or historical facts: Learn how Chilean pilots aided Antarctic expeditions, and why the country’s geography shaped its aviation milestones.