In early spring, my ‘DayTrippen Adventure’ took us to the Avro Arrow Museum at “Edenvale Aerodrome,” home to one of Canada’s greatest aviation stories. There, I saw a plane that I’ve read so much about and today, I see it “up front and personal.”
Now, most Canadians have heard the story or at least the rumours surrounding the legendary Avro Arrow Interceptor. The program was abruptly cancelled in 1959, and the completed aircraft and anything pertaining to it were ordered destroyed.
Fortunately for aviation enthusiasts, three full-scale replicas now exist, giving visitors a chance to see what Canada’s engineering masterpiece looked like back in the day.
That’s where Edenvale Aerodrome Museum and the Avro Arrow story begin.
Today, I visited the Edenvale Aerodrome Museum to see if the Avro Arrow Interceptor Plane and stories were true and if the trip was worth the drive. Here is my honest opinion and review for those interested in visiting the museum/airport.
Getting There
Finding the museum was easy enough. Coming from the south on Airport Road, I turned right at Stayner onto Highway 26. Signs pointing toward Wasaga Beach to the left made navigation simple, and just off the highway to the right sits Edenvale Aerodrome, home of the famous Avro Arrow Museum.
** Here is the address 5195 ON-26, Stayner, ON L0M 1S0, Canada
My First Impressions:
As we drove into the parking lot and made our way into the office to confirm our reservation. I was pleasantly surprised by the number of young and old alike gathered for the scheduled tour. Proving that interest in Canada’s Avro Arrow remains strong decades after the project was cancelled.
Photographs don’t do the Avro Arrow Interceptor any justice.
Our tour guide greeted us warmly and was more than happy to answer questions throughout the presentation. His knowledge of the aircraft and its history was impressive.
Along with the Arrow itself, visitors can see the massive Orenda Iroquois engine displayed securely on a stand, along with military artifacts and memorabilia from the era. Aviation history buffs will have plenty to examine before and after the tour.
However, standing beside Canada’s own, you truly appreciate the aircraft’s size and sleek design. At that point, you have more questions than answers about the why.
The Good Opinion
✔ The Avro Arrow replica is absolutely worth the drive. Seeing a full-scale reproduction up close gives you a whole new appreciation for what Canadian engineers accomplished.
✔ Easy to find. The museum is well marked, and Edenvale Aerodrome has an interesting history of its own.
✔ More than just the Arrow. If you’re interested, scenic airplane rides are also available, adding another experience to your visit.
✔ No crowds. We visited during the off-season, so there were no lineups or waiting. Keep in mind that summer traffic around Wasaga Beach can become quite busy.
The Not-So-Good
The historical presentation covers information that many Avro Arrow enthusiasts may already know from books, documentaries, and television programs. That said, it’s difficult to present new information on such a well-documented subject. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and, most importantly, a volunteer who clearly enjoys sharing Canada’s aviation history.
My Trip Assessment
The highlight of the day was finally seeing this iconic aircraft in person. The Avro Arrow is much larger than I had imagined. The cockpit (which was closed for viewing) is surprisingly compact, leaving you wondering how pilots squeezed themselves inside before heading off at incredible speeds.
If you’re a history buff, an aviation enthusiast, or simply curious about one of Canada’s most famous engineering achievements, this is a DayTrippen Adventure at Edenvale Aerodrome Museum I can personally recommend.
Travel
From Toronto, the drive is a little over an hour. Barrie is about 30 minutes away, while visitors from the Kitchener-Waterloo area can expect roughly a 90-minute drive.
Although, replicas of the Avro Arrow can also be found in Alberta and Ottawa. However, the Edenvale Aerodrome Museum offers Southern Ontario’s best opportunity to get up close and personal with the legendary Avro Arrow.
One final helpful tip:
“Be sure to book your tour in advance,” as tours are scheduled rather than offered continuously.
GENERAL $18 | MILITARY (ACTIVE) $16 | CHILD (UNDER 10YRS) FREE.
Plus taxes on all admissions
If you’ve still wondered what Canada’s greatest fighter aircraft looked like, this museum is well worth adding to your summer daytrippen adventures.
DayTrippen Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Rating Category | Score |
Worth the Drive | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Family Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Photo Opportunities | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Learn Something New | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
*** Next: Grand River Dinner Boat Cruise
Daytrippen at the Pinery, Aberfoyle Antique Market, or the Cold War Submarine Museum.
If you enjoy my articles and would like to support my travels by becoming a sponsor or making a contribution, your generosity would be sincerely appreciated.
Thank you for helping keep DayTrippen Adventures on the road!
