My son loves all things that go - cars, trucks, trains and planes. He's a typical boy! If your littles are into that sort of thing, we found the perfect GEM to visit!
Well actually two great places to check out with upcoming events at each. Here is the scoop on all things planes, cars and trucks (no trains this time) right here in Vacaville, CA!
Location: Nut Tree Airport - on the airfield | 300 County Airport Rd, Vacaville, California 95688 | Open 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM , With breakfast from 8 AM to 11 AM | Sign up for the next on on FACEBOOK
Features: $5 Suggested donation includes pancake breakfast, coffee or juice and sausage. Great company and plenty of seating! We talked to a member of the Young Eagles program (more information below) and my son got a FREE airplane toy to take home. We loved seeing all the airplanes, helicopter and a "really cool" sports car.
What my kids love: My son's favorite thing was the pancakes which he proceeded to load with whipped cream and sprinkles. He also loved that sports car and the helicopter with the see-through cockpit.
What I love: Free (or very nearly free) breakfast & great coffee! I liked hearing about the young eagles program and the hosts were very friendly.
Location: 300 County Airport Rd. Suite C4 Vacaville, California 95688 | Open Mon - Sun *Call ahead or visit their FACEBOOK for updated hours in case they are booked for special events.
Features: A stunning display of historical collections ranging from vehicles, and aircraft, to uniforms - all related to the U.S. Air force. It's an excellent resource for extracurricular learning, especially for families with older kids, as there's not a lot of "hands-on" activities for the younger kiddos. When we went (8/24/19) they mentioned that they would have a flight simulation in the corner set up soon, for all to enjoy!
What my kids love: My son actually stopped to read MOST of the displays (he especially the display of the turret gun which he then pretended to shoot - top left photo). And we enjoyed getting an up close look at some military vehicles outside, he also loved the tank (not pictured).
What I loved: Great air conditioning (it was HOT that day) and really clean bathrooms! It really shows how much the volunteers here care and each section was thoughtfully prepared and had a unique presentation.
Tips: Lots of information to take in especially if you're wanting to stop and read all the signs plan to spend at least an hour here when you go. They were setting up for an event so we only were able to stay a short while but they were still very welcoming & accommodating. We will definitely be back!
Young Eagles Program, FREE Flights for Kids ages 8 and up
Last, but not least, I found out some great information about the Young Eagles Program hosted by this museum on the 3rd Saturday of the month! You can find out more information on FACEBOOK . If you're interested in experiencing a FREE FLIGHT with the EAA Young Eagles prior, visit www.eaa.org
Please note that this event is geared towards older kids (ages 8 and up) and open to the first 40 kids registered.
The next 2 events are listed on our calendar already -
SAT, SEP 21 - 9 AM - 11 AM | SAT, OCT 19 - 9 AM - 11 AM
That’s my family’s experience at The Nut Tree Airport, but I bet your family has their own favorite "hidden gems" around town! I’d love to know where they are. Drop me a line on Facebook or email me at erinanderson@macaronikid.com.
Have a great time on your aviation adventure, and remember...don’t forget the camera for lots of great photo opportunities!
