Profile

Discover the story of commercial aviation at the American Airlines CR Smith Museum in Fort Worth, Texas.

The American Airlines CR Smith Museum Tour takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the history of one of the world’s largest airlines. This aviation museum in Fort Worth combines interactive technology with real aircraft displays to show how American Airlines shaped the future of passenger travel. Guests can walk through immersive galleries, explore flight simulators, and learn about the evolution of aircraft, uniforms, and airline culture.

The museum features the centerpiece Douglas DC-3 aircraft “Flagship Knoxville”, fully restored to represent the golden age of aviation. Other exhibits highlight airline engineering, the science of flight, and American’s pioneering role in making air travel accessible to millions. It’s a family-friendly destination that connects aviation’s past with the future of flight.

Why it’s special:
Unlike traditional museums, the CR Smith Museum emphasizes both heritage and hands-on learning. It’s named after C.R. Smith, American Airlines’ legendary CEO, who guided the airline’s rapid expansion after WWII. Visitors can step into the shoes of flight attendants, test interactive cockpit displays, and watch high-definition films in the museum theater. For aviation fans, school groups, and families in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, this museum is a must-see.

History/Story of the CR Smith Museum & American Airlines

The CR Smith Museum opened in 1993 to preserve the legacy of American Airlines and honor its longtime CEO, Cyrus Rowlett “C.R.” Smith. American Airlines began in 1930 from the merger of several regional carriers and quickly rose to prominence in the U.S. airline industry. Under Smith’s leadership, American became the first airline to introduce transcontinental passenger service and the first to order jets like the Boeing 707.

The museum was built near American’s corporate headquarters and DFW Airport, connecting the airline’s operational hub with its history. Today, it continues to educate the public about airline heritage, aviation technology, and the impact of commercial flight on American society.

What You’ll See & Do on the American Airlines CR Smith Museum Tour

View the Douglas DC-3 Flagship Knoxville, centerpiece of the museum.
Explore interactive flight simulators and aviation science exhibits.
Walk through galleries on aviation pioneers, uniforms, and airline branding.
Watch aviation documentaries in the large-format theater.
Step inside recreated airline workspaces, from cockpits to crew training areas.
Visit the museum gift shop for airline collectibles and souvenirs.

Hands-On Elements: Interactive flight stations, touchscreen exhibits, flight crew roleplay displays.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged throughout the museum.

Souvenirs & Extras:

CR Smith Museum Gift Shop with collectibles, apparel, and aviation toys
Theater screenings included with admission
Special programs for kids and educators

Pricing of American Airlines CR Smith Museum Tour

Adults: $7
Seniors (65+): $6
Children (2–17): $4
Children under 2: Free
Groups: Discounts available

Practical Info for Visiting the CR Smith Museum

Duration: 1–2 hours (longer for school groups)
Format: Self-guided with optional guided tours for groups
Schedule & Seasonality: Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 AM–4 PM; closed Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays
Audience: Families, aviation fans, school groups, tourists in DFW area
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible; assistive listening devices available
Safety & Restrictions: Indoor museum; no specific restrictions beyond general museum etiquette
Languages: English; printed guides may be available in Spanish and other languages
Group & School Visits: Special packages for schools and groups; classroom programs available

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothing; camera; curiosity for aviation history
Facilities: Restrooms, theater, gift shop, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed on major holidays and Mondays

Location & Booking

Getting There: Free parking onsite; accessible by car via TX-360; ~10 minutes from DFW Airport
Booking: Tickets available online at CR Smith Museum or onsite
Cancellation & Refunds: Refunds subject to museum policy; rescheduling available for groups
On-Site Extras: Gift shop, theater, education center

Nearby

DFW Founders’ Plaza Observation Area (plane spotting)
Frontiers of Flight Museum (Dallas Love Field)
Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington)

FAQs About Visiting the American Airlines CR Smith Museum

Do I get to go inside a real airplane?
Yes, the museum’s centerpiece is the Douglas DC-3 “Flagship Knoxville,” which you can view up close.

Are there flight simulators at the CR Smith Museum?
Yes, interactive simulators let you explore the science of flight and test your pilot skills.

Is the museum good for young children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly with hands-on exhibits, aviation toys in the gift shop, and kid-focused learning programs.

How long does the museum tour take?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours, but aviation enthusiasts and families often stay longer to enjoy the theater and interactive exhibits.

Can school groups visit the CR Smith Museum?
Yes, the museum offers special education packages and programs designed for school trips.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Walk-ins are welcome, but groups should book ahead. Tickets can be purchased online or onsite.