If you’ve followed our travels, you know Lisa and I are always on the lookout for unique dining experiences. Sure, we enjoy a good local diner or brewery, but every now and then we stumble onto something unforgettable. One of those stops for us was The Airplane Restaurant in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
As an aviation enthusiast, I was hooked the moment I heard you could actually eat inside a Boeing KC-97 Stratotanker. That’s right—this isn’t just a restaurant with an airplane theme—it is an airplane.
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First Impressions
From the outside, The Airplane Restaurant is impossible to miss. A massive KC-97 sits proudly next to the building, and you immediately get that kid-on-Christmas-morning excitement. Before we even set foot inside, we were snapping photos and marveling at the sheer size of this retired refueling aircraft.
The cool part? You don’t just look at it—you dine inside the fuselage. For aviation geeks like me, it felt like stepping into a flying museum that just happens to serve food.
Boarding the Plane
The aviation theme kicks in the moment you arrive. The hostess and waitress greet you dressed as pilots, welcoming you aboard with a smile that gives the evening a retro airline vibe. That touch of role-play might seem small, but it made the entire dining experience feel like a flight back in time.
Dining Inside the KC-97
Walking into the aircraft, we were greeted with rows of tables where refueling crews once worked. The interior has been cleverly converted into a dining area, but much of the original structure remains intact. You can still see gauges, controls, and aviation details that make it feel authentic rather than gimmicky.
There’s something surreal about sitting down for a meal while imagining the history this tanker once carried out in the skies.
Step Into the Cockpit
One of the highlights of the visit was being able to sit in the cockpit. Guests are encouraged to climb up and take the pilot’s seat, with all the original dials, switches, and gauges still in place.
For me, it wasn’t just about snapping a fun photo—it was about connecting with the history of a plane that once fueled missions around the world. It’s an absolute must-do when you visit.
Photo Tip: If you’re capturing cockpit shots, avoid using flash since it can cause glare on the glass instruments. A steady hand or a small travel tripod, like this compact model, will give you crisp photos even in lower light.
The Food and Atmosphere
Let’s be honest—when you visit a place like this, the experience is half the draw. But we were pleasantly surprised by the food as well. The menu is full of American classics—think burgers, sandwiches, steaks, and salads. We enjoyed hearty plates that hit the spot after a day of exploring Colorado Springs.
The staff’s enthusiasm for the theme made it even better. They clearly embrace the uniqueness of the restaurant and are happy to share stories about the airplane’s history with curious guests.
Beyond the Plane
While the star of the show is definitely the KC-97 dining area, the main restaurant building offers additional seating decorated with aviation memorabilia. From vintage photos to model planes, it’s an aviation lover’s dream. Even if you don’t manage to snag a table inside the plane itself, the atmosphere throughout the restaurant keeps the theme alive.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re ever in Colorado Springs, The Airplane Restaurant is worth the stop. It’s the kind of place that appeals to both kids and adults, history buffs and casual diners.
For us, it wasn’t just another meal—it was a chance to step into aviation history, sit inside a real tanker, and enjoy dinner with a story. Those are the kinds of experiences that stick with you and make full-time RV travel so rewarding.
If You Go
- Location: Near the Colorado Springs Airport (perfect if you’re flying in or out).
- Best Seats: Ask to be seated in the plane itself—it’s limited but worth the wait.
- Menu Highlights: Burgers, steaks, and hearty American fare.
- Photography Tip: Arrive before sunset for the best exterior shots of the KC-97. Golden hour light makes for fantastic photos.
- Where to Stay: RVers have great options nearby, including Peregrine Pines FamCamp at the Air Force Academy if you have access to the military base.
Final Thoughts
The Airplane Restaurant in Colorado Springs is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From stepping aboard a real KC-97 Stratotanker to sitting in the cockpit and being greeted by staff dressed as aircrew, every detail is designed to make you feel like you’ve boarded a retro flight.
For us, it checked all the boxes: unique, fun, and memorable. It’s a spot we’d happily return to and one we always recommend to fellow RVers and travelers exploring Colorado Springs.
If you’re planning a trip, pair your visit with a stay at Peregrine Pines FamCamp or another local RV park, and make The Airplane Restaurant a highlight of your Colorado road trip.
Have you ever dined in an airplane? Share your experience in the comments!
