Exploring Huffman Prairie Flying Field

The replica rail and catapult system used by the Wrights to propel their airplanes at takeoff.

NPS / Tom Engberg

When the Wright brothers returned to Dayton, Ohio after their historic first flights at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on December 17^th, 1903, they looked for a suitable flying field closer to home. Their search took them to a prairie owned by Dayton banker, Torrence Huffman. It was here, at Huffman Prairie, the Wright brothers mastered the principles of controlled, powered flight and developed the world's first practical airplane. Learn more about the history of Huffman Prairie Flying Field.

Today, Huffman Prairie Flying Field is located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Visitors can view a replica hangar, similar to the one used by the Wright brothers. The area is also home to a beautiful prairie, teeming with wildflowers in the spring. Guests can take a stroll along the paths in and around the prairie. 

Huffman Prairie was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990. Before you visit, we encourage guests to stop by the Huffman Prairie Flying Field Interpretive Center for more information about visiting the flying field and current operating conditions. As the area sits within Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, it is subjec to sudden closures or restricted access. You can also visit the Maps page to download a map to help guide you to the flying field.

Details

Duration

10-60 Minutes

Duration of stays will vary. Depending on ones curiousity and ability to walk distances, guests can view the main features of the site, including the replica hangar, or choose to take an extended walk into and around the prairie.

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Visitors are able to explore the site on their own.

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets are allowed on the site, but please be sure to clean up after them.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

The flying field is located within an active U.S. Air Force installation, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Visitors are encouraged to visit the Huffman Prairie Interpretive Center to inquire about visiting the site and to learn about any access issues, such as closures.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

The site is open during daylight hours, dawn to dusk.

Accessibility Information

Pets are allowed, but owners are expected to clean up after all pets and service animals.