The suspended planes
Real fighters under the vast glass roof.
Clemens Vasters from Viersen, Germany, Germany — CC BY 2.0 · Photographer: Mosbatho — CC BY 4.0 · Nick-D — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nick-D — CC BY-SA 4.0
The Dutch National Military Museum at the historic Soesterberg airfield (the Netherlands' oldest airfield) is a huge modern museum under one vast glass roof, gathering the history of the Dutch armed forces from medieval knights to modern jet fighters in a spectacular visual display. Its strength is its large holdings boldly shown: fighter planes suspended, tanks, cannon and helicopters — hundreds of real pieces in one open space the visitor walks among. Interactive sections on defence, aviation and military history, with simulators that please children and adults. At a historic military airfield site on Utrecht's edge (about 20 minutes), with wide outdoor areas for families. An excellent destination for aviation and military-history lovers and for families — a full day is possible.
Real fighters under the vast glass roof.
Armour, cannon and helicopters walked among.
Simulators and military history for children and adults.
Verlengde Paltzerweg 1, 3768 Soesterberg
For aviation and military-history lovers and families with children: strongly yes — among Europe's best-displayed military museums, its holdings vast. It practically needs a car (outside the centre). For the non-military-minded: Utrecht's centre museums come first. Combine it with the nearby Botanic Gardens to vary the eastern-edge day.