Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a flying aviation museum in Red Hook, New York. Founded by Cole Palen in 1958, it preserves, restores and flies aircraft from the Pioneer, World War I and Golden Ages of aviation. The nonprofit Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum continues this work through aircraft displays, flying demonstrations and visitor experiences. Its collection includes more than 80 vintage aircraft, along with antique vehicles and aviation memorabilia.

A Museum Where Aircraft Still Fly

Cole Palen started Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome with a small collection of airplanes and a plan to keep early aviation history alive.

He believed that aircraft should be seen flying rather than only standing on display.

That idea remains part of the museum's work today.

The Aerodrome collects and restores historic aircraft, allowing visitors to see how different types of airplanes were built and operated.

The collection covers the early years of powered flight, aircraft from World War I and machines from the period often called aviation's Golden Age.

The museum also preserves antique automobiles, motorcycles, aircraft engines and other items connected with the history of flight.

Weekend Airshows

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome holds two types of weekend flying displays during its airshow season.

The History of Flight Air Show takes place on Saturdays. The World War I Air Show takes place on Sundays.

These programs show visitors different periods of aviation history through flying aircraft and historical presentations.

The museum's published 2025 airshow schedule ran from June 14 through October 18, with performances at 2 PM.

Its static display museum normally opens from May through October, while the flying season runs from mid-June through mid-October.

The combination of ground displays and flying programs lets visitors learn about historic aircraft in different ways.

Biplane Rides and Flight Experiences

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome also offers flight experiences in a 1929 biplane.

The experience includes flying in an open cockpit above the Hudson Valley.

The Aerodrome also lists lighthouse tours among its visitor experiences.

For people interested in older aircraft, an open cockpit ride provides a chance to experience flying without the enclosed cabin found on many modern aircraft.

These flights form another part of the museum's work connecting visitors with aviation history.

Preserving Aviation History

The museum's exhibits include aircraft, vehicles, engines and memorabilia in its History of Flight Building.

Its collection features aircraft such as the Ansaldo A.1 Balilla and the Arup S-2 flying wing.

The Aerodrome also relies on people with experience in aviation maintenance, restoration and museum operations.

For pilots, aircraft builders and aviation fans, Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome offers a chance to see historic flying machines both on the ground and in the air. Its museum, airshows and biplane rides make early aviation history something visitors can experience directly.