Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome:
About

The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a true "living" museum of antique aviation located in Rhinebeck, New York. We present one of the largest collections of early aeroplanes in the world, many of which regularly take to the air in all their glory during our weekend airshows. The Aerodrome features aeroplanes, automobiles, motorcycles, early engines and memorabilia from 1900-1935. In addition to the airshows, there are four museum buildings displaying aircraft form the Pioneer Era, World War I and the Lindbergh/Barnstorming era. These were the golden years of aviation.

Our weekend air shows are scheduled from mid-June through mid-October. On these weekends (weather permitting), the Aerodrome turns back the hands of time and relives the years of early aviation. The colorful era of early aviation is brought back to life amidst the roar of rotary engines and is great entertainment for all ages.

The Saturday Shows chronicle the History of Flight with Pioneer, World War I and Lindbergh era aircraft taking to the skies. If the winds are calm you'll even see our 1909 Bleriot (the oldest flying aircraft in the United States) take to the air.

The Sunday Shows feature a World War I dogfight plus Barnstorming Aircraft and you will never forget the Flying Farmer created by world-renowned pilot, Stan Segalla. Stan turned 84 and retired after the 2008 show season. He continues to serve on the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Advisory Board, and his tradition for performing one of the greatest acts on the air show circuit will be carried on by his son, professional air show pilot Billy Segalla. You won't believe what the Segallas can make an airplane do. - For Admission Rates click here.

Pre-show activity includes a vintage fashion show with audience participation, an old-time automobile parade and early aviation engine run-ups. You can experience the thrill of early aviation yourself with rides in our open-cockpit 1929 New Standard biplane and one of our wonderful old antique automobiles.

Barnstorming flights over the scenic Hudson Valley are available before and after the shows. Biplane rides are $65.00/person - Rides take you over the beautiful Hudson River, the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and back again. Flights are of course, " weather permitting" and the decision to fly is always left to the discretion of the pilot. Flights book quickly on a " first-come/ first-serve" basis, so sign up early!

Antique auto rides - There is no more exciting or photogenic way to tour our flight line than in an old original automobile. You may have seen them statically displayed in museums, but seldom will have the opportunity to experience their great ambiance, feel and sounds. Don’t miss this exciting (and romantic) trip in to yesteryear.

Weekdays the museum buildings are open and the air show aircraft are on static display. Group tours are available by prior arrangement as are the biplane rides and special events.

The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome was the life's work of Cole Palen and his dream was to preserve early aviation. We are actively carrying on his work by promoting and preserving a "living" history of aviation for the public. It is our hope to instill aviation's rich heritage and colorful past with all generations and to ensure it lives and flies forever!