We are dedicated to the restoration and preservation of military aircraft, military vehicles, and memorabilia of those who flew and worked on military aircraft. Our approach, however, is not to glorify conflict but rather to make a future generation aware of the fact our way of life does not come without sacrifice.
Aircraft
Military aviation history unfolds with wide variety of aircraft and related equipment utilized by multiple services. Viewed up close puts these veterans in a completely different perspective.
Vehicles
You will want to see the incredible collection of military vehicles of all types, of which most have undergone frame up restorations as if they were being utilized for the first time.
Memorabilia
Experience the vast collection of momentos from individuals' military history, proactively maintained for future generations. Our freedoms came an an expense we can never forget.
Educational
Not only are the displays educational, there is also an extensive aviation library and an exceptional program for Middle School to High School students where youth learn numerous aspects of aviation.
About
While Others Remain The Same, We Grow!
It started with an idea by two guys and two airplanes along with a vision that said,
"Paso Robles should have an aviation museum."
For over 30 years, we've learned how to grow, and we're not stopping!
We are dedicated to the restoration and preservation of military aircraft, military vehicles and memorabilia of those who flew and worked on military aircraft. Our approach, however, is not to glorify conflict but rather to make a future generation aware of the fact our way of life does not come without sacrifice.
-
501(c)(3) Non-Profit Status
Adopting a name to memorialize the World War II Estrella Army Air Force Base, that which is now Paso Robles Municipal Airport, the Museum was chartered as a not-for-profit California corporation in 1992, and 501(c)(3) accreditation soon followed to establish us with the US Departments of Navy and Air Force, as well as the state of California, as an organization approved to receive surplus aircraft and other government properties.
-
Funding
The majority of our funding comes from individual donations, admissions, memberships, special events and corporate grants. Our community has strongly supported us in the past and we will continue to insure that all donated funds are dedicated specifically towards our operations and growth. Your continued support is vital to our success and we very much appreciate all whom have dontated time, materials, funds and exhibits.
-
The Future Is Here!
We can now clearly see our future. Plans have been drawn. Funding has already been secured for underground utilities for the ten acres immediately to the west of our current location.
Estrella Warbirds Museum is actively seeking financial partners, corporate, business, community and strategic partners to come along side the museum to help insure the future becomes a reality within our community.
Visitors Since Jan 1
April 2004
Visitors - May 2024
Mo. Percent Increase
Events
Recurring Events
You can always count on their being something special happening all times at Estrella Warbirds Museum.
News * Events Calendar *
Monthly Dinners
First Wednesday every month catered dinner. Always a very interesting guest speakers. Open to all. RSVP required.
Flight Simulator
This unique opportunity allows any pilot, or wanna-be pilot, to fly while sitting in the real cockpit of an F/A-18 "Hornet" naval fighter. You will be flying an FA/18F series aircraft, one of the better fighter aircraft in the world. Reservation Required.
Middle-High School Youth Program
Engaging teaching/training program for Middle to High Shool. We help our youth reach their potential.
Fly in C-47B
A once in a lifetime chance to fly on a WWII transport plane. Estrella Warbirds Museum is accepting donations for a seat on a once a month flight on board the restored C-47B, Betsy's Biscuit Bomber.
Warbirds Wings & Wheels
Annual car show drawing thousands of people & loaded with family fun! One of the largest fund raisers for museum operations. Includes Food, Craft Vendors, Music.
Georgina May
5 Stars
Definitely worth a visit if you are interested in Military history and or cars. Extensive Military collection from WW1, WW2, Vietnam War. The Woodland collection of cars! Racing cars and beautiful vehicles starting from a "horse less buggy" on up. You won't be disappointed what this museum has to offer!
Nikhil Tungare
5 Stars
Fantastic place. Can spend hours together soaking in all the information and the exhibits and it still wont be enough. Highly recommended.
Erin Morey
5 Stars
This is a very kid friendly place to visit. We went with 3 kids under 2 and one 3 y/o and they had an absolute blast. All the airplanes, tanks, and vehicles outside are hands on and the kids can climb into many of the attractions. They have an indoor car museum that is no touching but there is one little car to climb in there too. Overall I highly recommend for a mixed aged audience, everyone loved it from youngest to oldest and it was worth the price of admission.
Bet R.
5 Stars
We loved this place! My son was intrigued by everything there, and asked so many questions! It covers WW1, WW2, Vietnam, etc. The classic cars were a real bonus. We all learned a lot and had fun. You can even climb into a few wartime vehicles and planes there. Highly recommend this place.
Todd Tennison
5 Stars
A really amazing museum. The staff is really friendly and are happy to answer your questions. Seeing the jets and planes up close is really an experience that no picture can justify. Take a visit, you will not be disappointed.
Exhibits
Check out some of our Exhibits
The museum features a great number of exhibits ranging from military aviation, vehicles, armament & munitions, missiles, drones, an awsome collection of personal memorabilia, and of course, historical vehicles of all sorts.
- All
- Airborne
- Static
- Vehicular
Team
Our Hardworking Team
We've assembled a great team of dedicated professionals, all of whom put their heart and soul towards ensuring Estrella Warbirds Museum will remain a growing asset within our community.
John Couch
President of the Board
Scott Stelzle
Chief Operations Officer
Cindy Bergin
Board Treasurer
Ken Neuman
Museum Coordinator / CuratorMore Team Members:
Board Members Staff & Key Personnel
Admissions
Admissions
One Admission, two museums!
Open Thursday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Holidays: Open on Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Veterans Day
| Category | One Day Pass | Two Day Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $18 | $28 |
| Senior (60+) | $15 | $24 |
| Student (w/ID) | $10 | $15 |
| Child (6-12) | $8 | $12 |
| Child (0-5) | Free | Free |
| Military Veteran | $12 | $18 |
| Active Duty (w/ID) | Free | Free |
F.A.Q
Frequently Asked Questions
The hardest question to answer is the one not asked.
-
What are your hours? Do we need to pre-purchase admission tickets?
Hours: Thursday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Holidays: Open on: Memorial Day, Labor Day and Veterans Day.
Closed on New Years Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.Admissions: Pre-purchase of admission tickets is NOT required. However, if the option is available at this link.
-
Is the museum handicapped accessible?
Yes, most items are displayed on ground level and there are paved sidewalks between all buildings and throughout the bulk of the aircraft displays. There are however, several military equipment displays which can not be modified for handicapped accessibility as they are maintained in their original military condition. There are several wheelchairs available to lend (at the Gift Shop) if needed.
-
Are dogs allowed at the museum?
We know that dogs are sometimes our best friends, but dogs are not allowed in any of the museum buildings. Dogs are allowed on the grounds with a leash, but NOT allowed on the grounds during any major museum event.
-
Is there overnight parking for campers?
Although there is room for most campers to navigate the parking areas, there are no services available for overnight parking.
-
Are you allowed to take pictures of the displays and is there a food court?
We encourage people to take photographs or videos and even share them on social media. There are some display areas which are roped/chained off and photography can not be done from beyond those restrained areas.
We currently do not have a food court nor do we sell snacks in the gift shop. There are, however, soda machines available and multiple picnic type tables. Thompson Hall does have a dining area which is utilized for docent/worker lunches on Saturdays and for scheduled or advertised or private events.
-
Do you offer group tours or facility rental space?
Yes! We love to handle group tours, for a minimum of 10 or more; by appointment and reserved 7 days in advance. More information and pricing for tours can be done through this link.
Estrella Warbirds Museum has multiple options for facility rental space. You can find more information here.
Contact
Contact Us
We make every opportunity available to address all points of contact at the earliest possible time. We encourage you to search this site for additional information.
Our Address
4251 Dry Creek Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Call Us
+1 (805) 238-9317
