National Soaring Museum, Aviation museum on Harris Hill, Elmira, United States
The National Soaring Museum is an aviation museum on Harris Hill in Elmira that displays over two dozen gliders across multiple levels. The collection includes historical original aircraft and modern replicas that show the development of soaring over time.
Harris Hill was the nation's first military glider training site during World War II. Starting in 1930, the location hosted multiple national soaring competitions and became a center for motorless flight development.
The museum houses the United States Soaring Hall of Fame, honoring people who advanced motorless flight through their work. This recognition shows how important soaring is in American aviation history.
The museum is open daily for visitors and offers different hours depending on the season. It is easy to reach, and you should plan enough time to explore the exhibits across multiple levels.
Visitors can sign up for actual glider flights to experience motorless soaring over the Chemung Valley. This hands-on experience is available during certain months and offers a rare perspective of the region from above.
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