National Balloon Museum

I know NOTHING of ballooning barring that one trip I took up 20 years ago for my mothers fortieth. Girlfriend and I passed this on a road trip, shimmied up to the counter, and paid the $ 3 each. The volunteer docent had a wealth of knowledge on the… hobby? Activity? Sport? Either way, he answered any and all questions before we took off throughout the museum.
There were plenty of baskets, balloons, different types of capsule (even a styofoam one,) material samples, medals, trophies, etc. It could have been overwhelming, but everything was properly labeled, and easily explained to the clueless. There was a library in the back chock full of books and dvds. A small area for children’s activities and a cute little gift shop await you at the end of loop, as well as clean bathrooms and more non-​pushy, friendly staff.
Look, I went in here knowing nothing and left with a nice overview and new respect for the science and work that goes in to this activity, which is what any small specialty museum should do. It’s most definitely worth the entry fee, enter with an open mind, leave an hour later with a new appreciation.