The Maximum Effort capital campaign is bringing exciting improvements to the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. Now at $18.3 million, this campaign began with a goal of raising $10 million and through the generosity of museum donors, the original goal has been surpassed by 80%. This is a testament to the support of the Pooler community and supporters from across the United States. For aviation enthusiasts, history lovers and culture aficionados, a trip to Pooler isn’t complete without checking out this incredible institution.
A Mighty Legacy Preserving History
Since 1996, the museum has preserved the history and legacy of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. Featuring a diverse collection of artifacts and engaging exhibits, the visitor experience is truly unparalleled. Now’s the perfect time to visit, so you can explore the current exhibitions and prepare to experience the next chapter! If you’re traveling in a group, the museum offers adult and school group tours in a self-guided and a docent led format. There are also tour packages that include a lunch or dinner buffet at the on-site restaurant Miss Sophie’s Marketplace. Docent-led tours run two hours long and can be requested in advance. The museum also offers a great experience for large groups as there’s plenty of engaging exhibits to check out on days outside of the tours. For students, this museum offers a unique educational experience, bringing history to life through immersive experiences and monthly events. If you’re coming from the airport or stopping by the museum on your way out of Pooler, the museum can store your bags at the front desk area! This is a great option to ensure you don’t miss out on this essential Pooler experience.
Maximum Effort Capital Campaign Efforts
Improvements as part of the Maximum Effort capital campaign have already been made but by the end of 2027, the museum will offer a new type of visitor experience. Starting with the Program & Event Center, there will be a new 20,000-square-foot addition to the museum, bringing with it a seating capacity of over 250 and a larger curatorial space. Moreover, there will be two classrooms constructed to support the H+STEM curriculum, an important change that will allow the museum to expand its educational reach. The museum will also build a special Open Collections Gallery, an exciting addition to the existing museum. One of the biggest changes coming to the museum is a new multi-media permanent exhibition titled Combat in the Sky: A World War II History of the US Eighth Air Force. Museum staff and dmdg2, the exhibit design firm, have spent the past three years designing this new exhibition. Key features of this display will include the B-17, the City of Savannah, the newly acquired B-24 and hundreds of new objects.
Explore Action Outside of the Museum
Pooler is a vibrant community, full of foodie spots, thrilling attractions and affordable accommodations. After your visit to the museum, there’s still plenty of action to check out. Craving a bite to eat? Check out an array of top-rated restaurants, ranging from global spots like The Crown & Anchor Pub to hometown favorites such as Western Sizzlin Steakhouse & Buffet. Traveling with a large group? There are plenty of spots that can accommodate your group’s size so you can all fuel up for a day of adventure! As for things to do, there’s something for everyone to enjoy from the World’s Tallest IMAX Theater and Fun Zone Amusement & Sports Park to the Children’s Museum of Pooler. Don’t forget to hit up some shops to take home a souvenir whether it’s a locally-owned spot or the Tanger Outlets. After an exhilarating day of exploring and experiencing all that Pooler has to offer, unwind and relax at your home away from home. There are plenty of local accommodations to choose from with amenities, including indoor pools, free breakfast and pet-friendly rooms. For those traveling by plane, there are a variety of Pooler hotels that are in close proximity to the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) so you can spend less time commuting and more time enjoying your stay.
With the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s next chapter and Pooler’s exceptional visitor experience, now is the time to plan your Pooler adventure! Visit our website to learn more about where to stay, eat and explore to make the most of your experience.
