PLAN YOUR VISIT
The China Lake Museum is open to visitors who want to explore the people, technology, and history of China Lake. Whether you are visiting Ridgecrest, planning a family outing, bringing students, or reconnecting with China Lake history, this page has the basic information you need to plan your trip.
Before You Visit
✔ No base access required
✔ Free parking
✔ Allow 1½–2 hours
✔ Family friendly
"Fat Man" Mark IV Special Weapon
Advanced Common Intercept Missile Demonstration (ACIMD)
The China Lake Museum is open to visitors who want to explore the people, technology, and history of China Lake. Whether you are visiting Ridgecrest, planning a family outing, bringing students, or reconnecting with China Lake history, this page has the basic information you need to plan your trip.
Hours
10 AM – 4 PM
Tuesday - Saturday
Closed Sunday & Monday
Holiday hours may vary.
Please check before visiting on holidays.
760-677-2866
Admission
$5 - Regular Admission (18+)
$3 - Seniors (65+), Children 10-17, and Veterans
Free - CLMF Members and Children 0-9
Free - Active Duty Military and Military Families with ID's
Donations Welcome and Greatly Appreciated
Location
130 E Las Flores Ave.
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
No base access required. The museum is located outside the Naval Air Weapons Station.
Parking
There is ample free on-site parking
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible.
Restroom available
WHO SHOULD VISIT?
The China Lake Museum welcomes:
Families
Aviation enthusiasts
Military and history fans
School groups
Clubs and organizations
Engineering and technology enthusiasts
Planning a group visit? Contact us in advance to schedule tours or make special arrangements.
DON'T MISS
Make time to see some of the museum's most popular exhibits:
Largest collection of Tactical Air-Launched Weapons
Propulsion Exhibit
The Sidewinder story
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT
Allow about 1½–2 hours.
Photography is welcome for personal use.
Free parking is available.
Service animals are welcome.
NEARBY
Museums, parks, visitor information, restaurants, and hotels are located just minutes from the museum.
NEARBY IN RIDGECREST
Restaurants and coffee shops are available within a short drive of the museum.
Hotels are available in Ridgecrest for overnight visitors.
Visitors can also explore local museums, parks, desert attractions, and historic sites.