Is EAA Worth It? Our First-Time Experience at the World’s Biggest Air Show
Is EAA Worth It?
We finally did it — we made our first trip to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, and let’s just say, it lives up to the hype. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the trip, the short answer is yes. But like any major event, your experience will depend a lot on your expectations, planning, and ability to roll with the punches.
Here’s what we learned from attending the world’s largest air show — and why it should be on every pilot’s or aviation enthusiast’s bucket list.
Set Expectations — and Have a Plan
First things first: EAA is huge. We knew it was big, but it still exceeded anything we imagined. This isn’t your average weekend fly-in — it’s an aviation city that springs to life for one incredible week every July.
There are hundreds of aircraft on display ranging from vintage warbirds to experimental builds, iconic jets, ultralights, and everything in between. Combine that with multiple airshows daily, educational forums, workshops, movie nights, and evening events, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you don’t have a game plan.
Tip: Use the EAA website to check the daily schedule. You can sort by type of event, presenter, or location. Whether you’re into STOL competitions, hands-on workshops, or just drooling over historic planes, knowing where to be — and when — will help you make the most of your time.
Expect Crowds — And Be Kind
There are a lot of people at EAA. Like, hundreds of thousands. But the crowd is part of the charm. It’s a passionate, tight-knit community where everyone has at least one thing in common: a love for flight.
The volunteers are the unsung heroes that make this entire event run smoothly. Be patient, be kind, and thank them. They’re there because they love aviation too — and because they want to help you have a great experience.
Weather: Hot, Humid, and Unpredictable
If you’re heading to Oshkosh in the summer, plan for heat and humidity — and possibly sudden storms. We experienced all three in our day there. Hydration and shade are non-negotiables. Wear breathable clothes, bring sunscreen, and have a plan for staying cool. Cooling stations and misting stations are your best friends.
If you’re camping (a popular choice for attendees), pack with all-weather in mind. A tent fan and a tarp can go a long way.
TIP: Check out our blog “How to Stay Cool at EAA”
Parking, Camping, and Getting Around
EAA draws tens of thousands of cars and campers every year. Plan your parking in advance — and if you’re flying in, understand the arrival procedures well ahead of time. The NOTAMs for EAA are legendary for a reason!
There’s a shuttle system to help you get around the massive grounds, but even with that, expect to walk a lot. Comfortable shoes are a must.
So… Is EAA Worth It?
If you’re a pilot, student pilot, builder, mechanic, aviation enthusiast — or just someone who loves flight — absolutely. It’s not just an event, it’s an experience. You’ll see world-renowned performances, aircraft that only exist in museums or private collections, and meet people from all over the globe who share your passion.
We saw everything from the awe-inspiring F-35A roaring overhead to one-of-a-kind experimental aircraft that left us speechless. And we walked away inspired, sweaty, sunburned — and already planning our return.
Final Thoughts
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is something every aviation lover should experience at least once. It’s equal parts thrilling, educational, nostalgic, and just plain fun. But to make the most of it, go in with a plan, a flexible attitude, and a lot of water.
And don’t forget to look up — you never know what might be flying by.
