From speakeasies to secret tunnels, L.A. is no stranger to hidden spots that are full of life and just waiting to be discovered. Across the city, there are countless fascinating places we pass by every day without really knowing what they’re about, like that massive mural over the I-110, or In-N-Out’s replica of its very first store.
The place we’re about to explore is exactly one of those. Tucked away in none other than LAX, an airport that welcomes over 70 million travelers each year, this spot “flies under the radar” for both locals and tourists alike, and it’s open for a few hours on selected days of the week…
A mecca for aviation enthusiasts
Opened in 2003, marking the 75th anniversary of LAX and the 100th anniversary of the Wright brothers’ first powered flight, the Flight Path Museum LAX was created to honor aviation pioneers and promote aviation education. It’s location, right at the South Runway just off the 105 Freeway, is why it’s considered a very hidden gem.
The museum is full of artifacts from now-defunct airlines, exhibits chronicling the history of local aviation, century-old photographs, and a trove of other memorabilia. Hundreds of vintage pilot and flight attendant uniforms line the walls, there’s a dedicated room exploring space-related air travel, and you’ll find a retired DC-3, an A380 outside and even an airport fire truck! But the best part for aviation buffs is getting the chance to tune in to the Air Traffic Control tower via a live scanner feed.
The aviation walk of fame
No museum in L.A. could be complete without its necessary dose of celebrities… And this place is no exception. As explained by the travel website Islands, the Aviation Walk of Fame sits less than three miles from the museum, stretching several blocks along Sepulveda Boulevard from Manchester Avenue to 92nd Street.
Along the route, plaques honor aviation and aerospace pioneers who helped shape Southern California’s legacy in flight, from Pasadena’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to astronaut Sally Ride, trailblazing pilot Bessie Coleman, and more than 50 others.
Visiting the Flight Path Museum LAX
The museum can be a bit tricky to locate, but driving makes it much easier, by imply take the California Street exit off the 105 Freeway. While LAX is notorious for its confusing signage and crowds, the museum is just a short drive from the main terminals.
⏰Hours: Thursday through Saturday, 12PM-4PM
🎟️ Ticket info: General admission $5
📍 Location: 6661 Imperial Hwy., Los Angeles, CA 90045