One of my favorite parts of traveling is finding those experiences that really set a destination apart from the usual. While I’m not quite what one would call a history buff, imagine my surprise when I stumbled across the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force in Pooler,  only to discover it would be one of my favorite museum experiences I’ve had in a long time. You may not guess it at first glance, as it’s tucked away off the main highway and nestled unassumingly behind a Cracker Barrel and a Best Western. But once you step inside those museum doors, you’ll be amazed at how expansive and captivating this place truly is. It’s a visit that will stick with you long after you leave.

As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by the stunning rotunda named after Major General Lewis E. Lyle. Flags and plaques adorn the space, with a beautiful staircase leading up on either side. Adding to the excitement is the mouth-watering aroma from Miss Sophie’s, a cozy little eatery right by the entrance. It was buzzing with retired veterans, local law enforcement, and regulars enjoying their lunch – a true community hub.

The museum is centered around the then-newly formed Eighth Air Force of the United States Army Corps. It started in Savannah, Georgia, in January 1942 with just seven men and no aircraft. Fast forward to WWII, and the Eighth Air Force grew into the largest air armada in the world. Imagine more than 2,000 heavy bombers and 1,000 fighter planes on a single mission! The “Mighty Eighth” played a crucial role in destroying the German Luftwaffe and crippling Nazi Germany’s war-making capabilities.

Initially, one might expect the typical museum fare – a collection of memorabilia and displays to read. But what is found here is on another level. The collection is expansive, perfectly preserved, and so well-curated that visitors of all sorts can be captivated for hours, soaking in all the stories and artifacts. The minute I began experiencing the exhibits, I began thinking of all the people in my life that I absolutely had to share this discovery with– they’ve got to see this!

Visitors start in the Prelude to WWII exhibit, where they can get up close with artifacts, uniforms, and propaganda. It does an incredible job of chronicling post-World War I Germany, the rise of Hitler, and his ambitions for Europe. Then, it’s a move on to the Combat Gallery, a definite favorite. Here, you’ll find the “Mission Experience” – three short films that run every 30 minutes, putting you in the shoes of a WWII aircrew member stationed in England. The gallery is packed with original aircraft, engines, scale models, and exhibits. There’s even a B-17 Flying Fortress being restored and a “Fightin’ Sam” B-24 Liberator! You feel like a kid again, marveling at these massive pieces of history. And I couldn’t resist trying my hand at the Gunner Exhibit, practicing shooting down enemy fighters with a .50 caliber machine gun. Spoiler alert: I’m not a natural.

One of the most intriguing parts of the museum for me was the recreated Safe House and POW camp in the Airman Down piece. I found myself searching through the wallpaper of the Safe House, searching for hidden messages or any little secret I could piece together. It’s a surreal experience. Then comes The Hall of Valor, another powerful display, honoring the individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force during WWII. You can’t help but be taken aback. For me, it was a reflective moment, bringing a sense of thankfulness and really piecing together the impact of the stories I had just taken in from the exhibits before. 

This is the kind of place that can be visited repeatedly, with new discoveries each time. It’s a true must-do for the history lover, or anyone who appreciates a well-curated collection turned experience. Older children would love it, too – especially with all the interactive exhibits and huge aircraft. So, if you find yourself heading toward the Savannah area, be sure to make a stop in Pooler to check it out. You’ll be glad you did. 

Don’t skip the outside exhibits!

• Aircraft: including an F-4C Phantom, a Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17A, and a B-47 Stratojet.
• Memorial Garden: a beautiful tribute to those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice,
• Chapel of the Fallen: built in 2002, a gothic English chapel of the 16th century, complete with pews, stained glass windows, and an exhibit dedicated to war brides.

While You’re There

• Experience: The World’s Tallest IMAX
  With a screen over 101 feet wide and 76 feet tall, you’ve never seen anything like it!
• Taste: Crown and Anchor
  Feast on authentic pub fare, British cocktails, and good vibes. 
• Shop: The Tanger Outlets and Other Local Boutiques
  Pooler is a true shopping mecca with thousands of people who stop to shop.
• Play: Tons of Family Fun
  Fun Zone, Frames and Games, the Children’s Museum of Pooler, Dave and Busters–there’s fun to be had all around town.