San Carlos - Hiller Aviation Museum, San Carlos, CA

Brisbane California is conveniently located just 2.5 miles north of the San Francisco Airport, 10 minutes from Downtown San Francisco, 15 minutes to Moscone Convention Center, and 3 minutes to 3Com Park. Directions: From San Francisco Airport, take Hwy 101 north and exit at Sierra Point Parkway. At the first stop sign take a right turn.

We haven't seen much of Brisbane, a San Mateo County, California city, but what we've seen was exceptional. Hiller Aviation Institute & Museum in Brisbane showcases the past, present and future of aviation with one-of-a-kind prototype helicopters and aircraft spanning the development of aviation since the early 1800's. Founded by the late, great helicopter pioneer Stanley Hiller Jr. in June 1998, this facility provides one of the finest aircraft collections anywhere. The adjoining gift shop sells unique, hard-to-find memorabilia and collector items sought by aviation buffs. When asked if Howard Hughes and the museum founder were associates, a tour guide replied, "Howard Hughes knew Stanley Hiller, and he put him out of business!" It didn't take much time for  enterprising inventor Stanley Hiller to rebound and soar to new heights, however.  Hiller Aircraft now produces and sells the most versatile line of helicopters in existence, used for military training, farming and a variety of commercial and private endeavors. The museum is located at 601 Skyway Road, San Carlos, CA94070. Cost: $9 for adult (subject to change, call first). Phone: (650) 654-0200. www.hiller.org

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