Aviation Nation at Nellis Air Force Base

Description:

• Once a year, the gates at Nellis Air Force Base are opened for the public. The accompanying air show, usually features the Thunderbirds, the U.S. Air Force's special demonstration squad that wows onlookers with their precision moves. On the ground, visitors can see hundreds of aircraft on display.
  
  The Aviation Nation event is held in November. Check the Base's website for more information on the dates. (In 2011, it's on November 12 and 13.) Admission is free. The Thunderbirds don't perform alone—they're joined by other teams, both military and civilian. It's not all about aerial acrobatics, though. This is the place to learn about the history of military aviation in a hands-on way. Visitors can explore the planes and vehicles on the ground, and pilots and other personnel are on hand to answer any questions.
  
  Public parking is at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and shuttles are used to transport visitors from the base to their cars.
  
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