What age groups is this activity suitable for?

The Engineering Challenges program is designed primarily for school-aged children approximately 8-14 years old but can accommodate groups with varying ages.

How many people can participate in each challenge?

Groups of 2-4 participants work together on each engineering challenge to encourage collaboration and hands-on learning.

Is prior engineering knowledge needed to participate?

No previous engineering experience is required; all challenges are designed to be accessible and educational for beginners.

Can the challenges be booked for private groups only?

Yes, this experience is available for private groups, field trips, and educational outings by reservation.

Are there any physical activity requirements?

The activity level is easy with limited physical exertion; most tasks involve designing, building, and testing ideas while stationary or moving short distances.

What safety measures are in place during the challenges?

All materials and activities are supervised by museum staff, and safety guidelines are followed to ensure a secure environment for participants.

Engineering Challenges at Pima Air & Space Museum, Tucson | Museum | Workshop

Experience an educational adventure like no other at the Pima Air & Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona, where students engage in hands-on engineering challenges designed to inspire creativity and teamwork. This unique program invites groups of 2-4 participants to tackle real-world problems through interactive activities such as the Cargo Plane challenge, Parachute Drop, and Mars Lander project. Each challenge requires designing and building innovative solutions, making it an exciting way to learn STEM concepts beyond the classroom. Located within one of the largest aviation museums in the world, this experience combines immersive engineering education with the awe of historic aircraft exhibits. Perfect for school field trips or private groups, it offers a memorable blend of fun, discovery, and critical thinking. Whether students are experimenting with payload logistics or precision landings, the Engineering Challenges program encourages collaboration, creative problem-solving, and practical application of scientific principles in a supportive environment. The Pima Air & Space Museum’s setting in sunny Tucson also provides a warm, inviting atmosphere for visitors to explore aviation history and innovation after the activities. This adventure is ideal for young learners eager to explore engineering concepts hands-on while enjoying a day filled with dynamic learning and engaging group activities.

About Pima Air & Space Museum

Pima Air & Space Museum preserves and displays an expansive collection of historic aircraft across 80 acres with more than 200 airplanes. The museum provides a range of public and group experiences designed for education, engagement, and memorable outings. Guided tram tours offer a comfortable narrated 45-minute introduction to the outdoor display, while walking tours and thematic guided tours (WWII, Cold War, Aviation Highlights) let groups explore iconic aircraft such as the SR-71 and B-29.

Groups can choose private or custom experiences: private guided tours that mix tram and walking segments, custom private tours where visitors select four topics, and adult group visits for 20 or more that include self-guided options and pre-ordered boxed lunches from the Flight Grill. School and youth group bookings include discounted admission for qualifying groups, pre-arranged classes, and hands-on engineering challenges like Cargo Plane, Parachute Drop, and Mars Lander. Engineering challenges and aviation classes are structured for small teams (2–4 or 3–4) and include all materials for 45-minute sessions that promote teamwork and STEM learning.

Special event offerings include DUKW rides that recreate the experience of WWII-era amphibious vehicles for land-and-water adventures. The museum emphasizes knowledgeable guides, structured educational programming, flexible group logistics, and accessible options for larger parties seeking a convenient, engaging aviation experience. Knowledgeable guides and staff follow established safety protocols, clear group booking processes, and flexible scheduling to accommodate school calendars and special event needs, ensuring reliable, well-organized visits for groups and individuals. Reservations and group pricing options simplify planning for educators.