The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is located at 9 Norton Drive in Rhinebeck, New York. The Aerodrome's purpose is to preserve and promote the history of aviation and to educate the public about aviation. The Aerodrome serves as a living history of aviation, and it was started by Cole Palen.
The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is home to automobiles, motorcycles, airplanes, early engines, and memorabilia from 1900 to 1935. The Aerodrome consists of four museum buildings. These buildings are used to display aircrafts from World War I, the Pioneer Era, and the Lindbergh/Barnstorming Era. This time period is what many consider to be the golden years of aviation.
In addition to the onsite museums, the Aerodrome holds air shows on weekends. Weather permitting, these shows are held from mid-June through mid-October. The Saturday air show is designed to chronicle the history of flight. This particular show includes aircrafts from the Pioneer, World War I, and Lindbergh eras. Visitors can see the 1909 Bleriot take flight during this show. The 1909 Bleriot is the oldest flying aircraft located in the United States. The air shows held on Sunday offer guests the opportunity of seeing a World War I dogfight and Barnstorming Aircraft.
Prior to the air show, a vintage fashion show takes place. This show consists of an old-time auto parade and some of the early aviation engine run-ups. Visitors have the unique opportunity to ride in an open-cockpit 1929 New Standard biplane. Before and after each show, Barnstorming flights are available. These flights feature scenic views of the Hudson Valley. These flights fly over the Hudson River and the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge. Biplane rides cost $65 per person and are available on a first come, first serve basis.
On weekends, the gates at the Aerodrome open at 10:00am, and biplane rides are offered as soon as the gates open. The air show typically runs from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. The museums are open from 10:00am to 5:00pm daily. On weekdays, the museum buildings are open to visitors, and the aircrafts used in the air show are on static display.
Group rates are available for groups of 15 or more. The group rate for the weekend air show and museums is $15 per adult, $10 per teen or senior, and $2 for juniors and scouts in uniform. Children that are 5 years of age or under are free. For bus tours, the bus driver and one escort receive free admission. The group rate for weekday admission is 50% off of the above rates.
In order to receive the group rate, groups must notify the Aerodrome at least two weeks prior to the date that they intend to visit. Final payment for the group must be made prior to the day of the visit. Pricing is subject to change at any time. Guided tours of the museums are available upon request and typically last about an hour. Information on individual rates is available by calling the Aerodrome directly.
Additional information about the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome can be obtained by calling 845-752-3200.
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