About Hiller Aviation Museum
Located in San Carlos, California, the Hiller Aviation Museum is an interactive aviation museum dedicated to inspiring curiosity about flight through hands-on exhibits, historic aircraft, and engaging STEM experiences. Founded by helicopter pioneer Stanley Hiller Jr., the museum celebrates the history of aviation while encouraging future generations to explore careers in science, engineering, and aerospace.
 
Historical Overview
The Hiller Aviation Museum opened in 1998 on the grounds of the former San Carlos Airport, home to the Hiller Aircraft Company. Named after aviation innovator Stanley Hiller Jr., the museum preserves the remarkable history of flight while showcasing the technological advances that continue to shape aviation today. The museum's mission is to educate and inspire visitors through interactive exhibits, historic aircraft, and hands-on learning experiences that highlight the science, engineering, and innovation behind aviation.
 
Key Exhibits and Experiences
Historic Aircraft Collection
Explore a diverse collection of aircraft representing more than a century of aviation innovation, from early flying machines to modern airplanes and helicopters.
Helicopter Gallery
Discover one of the museum's signature collections featuring helicopters designed by Stanley Hiller and other aviation pioneers. Learn how rotary-wing aircraft revolutionized transportation, rescue operations, military service, and firefighting.
Aviation Innovation Exhibits
Explore displays showcasing the evolution of aviation technology, including engines, aircraft components, navigation systems, and aerospace engineering breakthroughs.
Full-Scale Aircraft
Walk beneath beautifully restored airplanes and helicopters while learning how different aircraft are designed for unique purposes such as transportation, exploration, rescue, agriculture, and military operations.
Interactive STEM Exhibits
Hands-on exhibits allow visitors to experiment with the principles of flight, aerodynamics, lift, propulsion, weather, and aircraft design through engaging activities designed for learners of all ages.
Flight Simulators
Experience the excitement of flying through simulator experiences that introduce visitors to aircraft controls, navigation, and the fundamentals of piloting in a safe, interactive environment.
 
What Students Will Learn
Aviation History
Trace the incredible story of human flight from its earliest pioneers to today's cutting-edge aerospace technology.
Aerospace Engineering
Discover how engineers use science, mathematics, materials, and technology to design safer, faster, and more efficient aircraft.
 
Physics of Flight
Explore the four forces of flight—lift, thrust, drag, and weight—and investigate how wings, propellers, helicopter rotors, and jet engines make flight possible.
Innovation and Invention
Learn how inventors like Stanley Hiller Jr. helped transform aviation through creativity, experimentation, and engineering innovation.
Aviation Careers
Explore careers in piloting, aerospace engineering, aircraft maintenance, aviation technology, air traffic control, meteorology, robotics, and space exploration.
 
Real-World Applications
STEM in Action
See how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics work together to solve real-world aviation challenges and improve aircraft performance.
Engineering Design
Discover how engineers continually improve aircraft through testing, innovation, problem-solving, and new technologies.
Innovation Through Collaboration
Learn how pilots, engineers, mechanics, designers, and scientists work together to develop and safely operate aircraft around the world.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Explore how aviation professionals analyze information, adapt to changing conditions, and make important decisions to ensure safe and successful flights.
 
Visiting Tips for Families
Plan Ahead
Check the Hiller Aviation Museum website for current hours, special exhibits, educational programs, and event schedules before your visit.
Participate in the Interactive Exhibits
Many exhibits are designed to be explored through hands-on experimentation. Encourage students to test, observe, and ask questions throughout the museum.
Ask Questions
Museum staff and volunteers are passionate about aviation and enjoy sharing fascinating stories about the aircraft, inventors, and technology on display.
Explore Both Indoor and Outdoor Exhibits
Allow plenty of time to experience the museum's interactive galleries as well as its outdoor aircraft displays.
Watch Aircraft at the Airport
Located adjacent to the San Carlos Airport, visitors often have the opportunity to watch real aircraft taking off and landing during their visit.
 
Educational Benefits
A visit to the Hiller Aviation Museum provides students and families with an engaging, hands-on introduction to aviation history, aerospace engineering, physics, invention, and STEM careers. Through interactive exhibits, historic aircraft, and immersive learning experiences, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the science, creativity, and innovation that continue to shape the future of flight.
 
Student Package: Includes engaging pre and post educational visit activities, trip organization and student ticket.
 
Educator Package: Includes educational resources, interactive project ideas, trip organization, direct experiential opportunities to help better connect the experience with your students and complimentary chaperone ticket. Does not include student ticket.