MAPS Air Museum
The Military Aviation Preservation Society (MAPS) Air Museum offers visitors an impressive journey through aviation history with a special focus on military aircraft and Ohio's contributions to flight. This non-profit museum, operated entirely by dedicated volunteers, houses an extensive collection of aircraft, memorabilia, and educational exhibits that bring aviation history to life.
Why It's Special
What makes MAPS Air Museum unique is its combination of hands-on accessibility, passionate volunteer expertise, and the living history preserved in its collection. Unlike larger national museums where aircraft might be viewed from a distance, MAPS offers intimate access to its impressive fleet, with many restoration projects happening right before visitors' eyes. The museum's location adjacent to the Akron-Canton Airport adds to the experience, as guests can watch active flights while exploring aviation history.
Museum Highlights
Aircraft Collection
The museum features over 50 aircraft spanning military and civilian aviation history:
- F-16 Fighting Falcon
- F-14 Tomcat (one of only a handful on display in the Midwest)
- A-7 Corsair II
- UH-1 Huey helicopter
- T-28 Trojan
- MiG-17 fighter jet
- A-26 Invader bomber
- Replica of Wright Brothers' aircraft
- Numerous cockpits and aircraft sections for interactive exploration
Gallery of Heroes
A profound tribute to military service featuring:
- Extensive Ohio Medal of Honor recipient exhibit
- Personal artifacts and stories from local veterans
- Uniforms and equipment from all branches of service
- Letters, photographs, and mementos donated by service members' families
- Memorial wall honoring fallen local service members
Special Exhibits
- The Forgotten Wars Gallery highlighting Korea and other less-documented conflicts
- Women in Aviation display celebrating female pilots and aviation pioneers
- Extensive Vietnam War exhibit with immersive elements
- POW/MIA tribute with powerful artifacts and personal accounts
- Cold War aviation technology development
Restoration Area
One of the most fascinating aspects of MAPS is its active restoration facility:
- Ongoing aircraft restoration projects visible to visitors
- Volunteer craftsmen often available to explain their work
- Detailed displays showing the restoration process
- Workshop showcasing traditional aviation craftsmanship and techniques
Visitor Experience
Guided Tours
- Knowledgeable volunteer docents, many with military or aviation backgrounds
- Small group sizes allowing for questions and personalized information
- Firsthand accounts and stories that bring the exhibits to life
- Technical expertise on aircraft design and historical context
Interactive Elements
- Cockpit simulator where visitors can experience piloting controls
- Select aircraft that visitors can explore inside (varies by preservation needs)
- Hands-on educational displays explaining flight principles
- Flight-related artifacts that visitors can handle
Museum Store
The MAPS PX (Post Exchange) Gift Shop offers:
- Aviation-themed gifts and souvenirs
- Military memorabilia
- Model aircraft kits
- Books on aviation and military history
- MAPS-branded merchandise
Special Events
The museum hosts several annual events that expand the visitor experience:
- MAPS Aircraft Rides: Opportunities to fly in vintage aircraft (scheduled dates)
- Collings Foundation's "Wings of Freedom Tour": Featuring visiting historic aircraft
- Veterans' Appreciation Day: Special programming honoring service members
- Hangar Dances: 1940s-themed events with period music and dancing
- Car Shows: Classic vehicles displayed alongside vintage aircraft
- Aviation speakers series: Featuring pilots, designers, and historians
Educational Programs
- School field trip programs aligned with STEM curriculum
- Merit badge workshops for scout groups
- Aviation summer camps for youth
- Educational workshops on aircraft engineering and design
- Research opportunities in the museum's extensive archive
Plan Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
- Weekend afternoons often feature the most volunteer docents
- Special event days bring additional aircraft and activities
- Weekday mornings typically offer a quieter experience
Tips for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes as the hangars require substantial walking
- Bring a camera for unique aviation photography opportunities
- Ask questions of the volunteers who have fascinating personal stories
- Check the website before visiting as display aircraft occasionally rotate
- Dress in layers as the hangar temperatures can vary
Nearby Attractions
While in the area, consider visiting:
- Harry London Chocolate Factory (5-minute drive)
- Akron-Canton Airport Observation Area (adjacent)
- Jackson Bog State Nature Preserve (10-minute drive)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame (20-minute drive)
- Belden Village Mall shopping area (10-minute drive)
Getting There
The MAPS Air Museum is conveniently located just off Interstate 77 near the Akron-Canton Airport. Take exit 113 and follow the signs for the museum. Ample free parking is available directly in front of the facility. The museum's location near the Akron-Canton Airport border makes it accessible from both cities.
Museum History & Mission
Founded in 1990, the Military Aviation Preservation Society began with a small group of aviation enthusiasts dedicated to preserving military aircraft history. Initially housed in a single hangar, the museum has grown to occupy multiple facilities with an ever-expanding collection. The organization remains committed to its founding mission of honoring those who have served in the military, preserving aviation history, and educating the public about the importance of aviation in America's heritage.
The museum's all-volunteer staff includes veterans, former pilots, aircraft mechanics, and aviation enthusiasts who bring passion and expertise to every aspect of museum operations. Their dedication to restoring, preserving, and interpreting these historic aircraft ensures that the legacy of military aviation remains vibrant for future generations.
