The Fagen Fighters WWII Museum, located in Granite Falls, Minnesota, is a stunning tribute to the men and women of World War II. Known for its incredible collection of restored warbirds and immersive exhibits, this museum brings history to life while honoring the sacrifices and bravery of those who served.
Fagen Fighters WWII Museum
2450 540th Street
Granite Falls
Minnesota 56241
www.fagenfighterswwiimuseum.org
+1 320-564-6644
Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 – 16:00
December 1 – March 31
Thursday – Saturday 10:00 – 16:00
Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and National Holidays
Admission fee
Aircraft collection
Lockheed P-38L Lightning (NX79123) 3321/L2-W USAAF
| N2975
– N7205A N4420K/03-681/16 N402WH/42-10083/96 NC37143/41-25196 N46197/108 N75463/215429/950 N9265A/78645/115 N774FM/86774/16 – NX79123/3321/L2-W N553TT/3858 N325N/327473/73 43-12112/B16 NL68JR/472051/QP-F NL251L/463864/HL-W N714AW/27234/11-3 N57184/277 N54841/121386/205 – | Curtiss JN-4D Jenny
Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver (restoration) Curtiss P-40E Warhawk (restoration) Curtiss P-40E Warhawk Curtiss P-40K Warhawk ERCO XPQ-13 Fairchild PT-19 Fairchild PT-26 Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat Grumman FM-2 Wildcat Laister-Kauffman TG-4A Lockheed P-38L Lightning Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero North American B-25J Mitchel North American P-51B Mustang North American P-51D Mustang North American P-51D Mustang North American SNJ-4 Ryan PT-22 Vultee BT-13 Valiant Waco CG-4A |
What to See at the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum:
Aircraft Collection:
- The museum’s centerpiece is its fleet of fully restored, flyable WWII aircraft, maintained in pristine condition. Highlights include:
- P-51 Mustang (“Twilight Tear”): A legendary fighter aircraft that dominated the skies during WWII.
- P-40 Warhawk: Recognizable for its shark-mouth nose art, used by the Flying Tigers.
- B-25 Mitchell: A twin-engine bomber made famous by the Doolittle Raid.
- FM-2 Wildcat: A Navy fighter aircraft known for its toughness in battle.
- L-5 Sentinel: A liaison aircraft used for reconnaissance and medical evacuations.
Ground Vehicles:
- The Fagen Fighters WWII Museum also displays a collection of restored WWII vehicles, including Jeeps, tanks, and other military equipment, offering a comprehensive view of the machinery that supported the war effort.
Immersive Exhibits:
- The Voices of Valor Experience:
- Walk through life-sized dioramas depicting key moments of WWII, including the attack on Pearl Harbor, the beaches of Normandy, and scenes from the Pacific and European theaters.
- The exhibits incorporate actual artifacts, audio recordings, and video footage, creating an emotionally powerful experience.
- Personal Stories:
- Learn about the lives of the servicemen and women through letters, photos, and first-hand accounts.
Restoration Hangar:
- The Fagen Fighters WWII Museum’s restoration hangar offers a behind-the-scenes look at how these historic aircraft are brought back to life. Visitors can see the meticulous craftsmanship involved in maintaining these machines.
Special Features and Events:
- Flying Demonstrations:
- The museum frequently hosts events where visitors can see these incredible planes take to the skies, offering a rare opportunity to witness living history in motion.
- Veteran Honoring:
- The museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of WWII veterans, and many of its events and exhibits are centered around their stories.
- Gift Shop:
- Purchase WWII-themed memorabilia, books, and aviation collectibles.
Tips for Visiting:
- Plan for Extra Time: There’s so much to see, especially if you’re an aviation enthusiast or WWII history buff. Allocate at least a few hours for your visit.
- Flying Schedule: If you want to catch a flying demonstration, check ahead for event dates.
- Photography: Bring your camera—between the planes, dioramas, and vehicles, there are countless photo opportunities.
- Talk to Staff: The museum staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.
The Fagen Fighters WWII Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in aviation or WWII history. Its mix of beautifully restored aircraft, immersive exhibits, and heartfelt tributes make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Picture Fagen Fighters WWII Museum