Western Museum of Flight

Part of the appeal of this Torrance museum is its location in a hangar on Louis Zamperini field—you get to feel like a pilot (or at least like a private jet passenger!) as soon as you walk onto the airfield. The other part is the strong collection of military aircraft built by the local aerospace industry. Highlights include the Northrop YF-23A, a supersonic stealth fighter, and the Northrop F-5, a lightweight supersonic stealth fighter that the U.S. military supplied to friendly nations, and one of only three Northrop JB-1's in existence. Also known as “The Bat,” it was a precursor to America’s first cruise missile. Not into war craft? Check out Steve McQueen’s bright yellow bi-plane.