The newly opened Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum in Atchison celebrates the life and accomplishments of Amelia Earhart, pioneer aviator and the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Amelia is one of Kansas’ most influential leaders and adored throughout generations. It’s only right that Atchison opened a new museum that encourages visitors to take to the skies, Amelia- style.

When you enter the museum, you are automatically drawn to the digitally animated Earhart. The graphic captures Earhart’s mannerisms exquisitely, you feel like you are standing in her presence in that very moment. I captured the sweetest moment of my daughter turning around in awe to listen to her speak. Knowing Earhart is just as powerful today as she was almost a 100 years ago makes this Kansas girl very proud!

The centerpiece and inspiration for the new museum, Muriel, is the last remaining Lockheed Electra 10-E. Named after Earhart’s sister, Muriel is the same aircraft Earhart was navigating on her final flight around the world when she disappeared on July 2, 1937. There were only 14 of these Lockheed models made, with Muriel being the second off the production line.

Throughout the exhibits you will find hands-on and interactive learning at every move, from choosing one of Earhart’s career paths to designing your own avatar, sitting in the full-scale replica of Muriel’s cockpit, to piloting a VR flight over the Atlantic Ocean like Earhart’s historic 1932 solo flight. My favorite exhibits are “Amelia’s Guiding Lights” which shows how Earhart navigated the night skies by using the constellations and the “What Happened” wall which explains or debunks myths about Earhart’s disappearance.

All in all, this museum is truly for all ages. It is a STEM curriculum approved for elementary-middle school-aged children, but even littles, such as my 3-year-old will enjoy the experience. There is no time greater than now to get your children into museums and learn about as many environments as they can be exposed to. They might not be able to reach the skies just yet, but you can give them the tools and inspiration to dream above the clouds!