A-12 OXCART Flight Suit Boots on display

Lockheed A 12

Lockheed A-12 Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide at Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, New York City

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to the Lockheed A-12 and the Intrepid Museum

The Lockheed A-12, a marvel of Cold War aviation and an icon of stealth and speed, is among the most significant aircraft displayed at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City. Developed by Lockheed’s Skunk Works for the CIA in the 1960s, the A-12 was designed for high-risk reconnaissance missions, capable of reaching speeds over Mach 3 and soaring above 85,000 feet. With its matte-black titanium skin and slender, futuristic profile, the A-12 pioneered technologies that influenced subsequent aircraft, notably the SR-71 Blackbird. Only a handful survive today, making the Intrepid’s A-12 a rare opportunity to connect with a pivotal chapter in aerospace and espionage history.

The A-12 is displayed on the open-air flight deck of the USS Intrepid, docked at Pier 86 on Manhattan’s West Side. Here, visitors can closely examine the aircraft and explore interpretive panels, videos, and multimedia presentations that detail its missions and technological legacy. The museum’s central location in Midtown Manhattan is accessible by subway, bus, and ferry, ensuring convenience for tourists, families, students, and aviation enthusiasts.

Alongside the A-12, the Intrepid Museum features an impressive array of aircraft and spacecraft, including the Space Shuttle Enterprise and the Concorde SST, offering a comprehensive journey through decades of technological progress. Visitor services include wheelchair accessibility, guided and audio tours, family programming, and amenities to ensure a comfortable and educational experience for all ages.

For the latest hours, ticketing, and health protocols, consult the Intrepid Museum’s official website. Whether you’re a history buff, photographer, or family on an educational outing, the Lockheed A-12 exhibit promises a memorable encounter with aerospace innovation in the heart of New York City (Intrepid Museum, The Empty Nest Explorers).

A-12 OXCART flight suit gloves used by CIA pilots

A-12 OXCART flight spurs used by Dr. Albert D. Wheelon for safe ejection

A-12 pilot wearing a protective pressure suit with thermal insulation and life support system

Mothballed A-12 reconnaissance aircrafts in storage after retirement in 1968

A-12 full scale model prepared for radar cross section measurements

Design of Archangel 2 aircraft by Kelly Johnson

Lockheed A-12 wind-tunnel test models with canard and final configurations at NASA Langley

CIA A-12 pilots and managers group photo

Lockheed A12 aircraft undergoing radar testing at Area 51 desert facility

Lockheed A12 aircraft undergoing radar testing at Area 51

A mixed media painting depicting the CIA A-12 OXCART supersonic aircraft on a reconnaissance mission over North Korea in 1968

USS Pueblo captured by North Korea, seen from Lockheed A-12 spyplane

CIA A-12 reconnaissance image showing Pueblo ship at Wonsan after North Korean capture

Ten Lockheed A-12 reconnaissance aircraft lined up at Palmdale Plant 42 California

About the Lockheed A-12 Exhibit
Planning Your Visit: Hours, Tickets, and Location
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Tips for Visiting the Lockheed A-12 Exhibit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About the Lockheed A-12: A Brief Overview
Enhance Your Visit: Related Resources and Links
Lockheed A-12: History, Preservation, and Visitor Experience
Location and Access
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Summary and Visitor Tips
Sources and Further Reading

About the Lockheed A-12 Exhibit

The Lockheed A-12 “Blackbird” is a highlight of the Intrepid Museum’s flight deck, standing out with its striking black finish and sleek, delta-winged design. One of only a few surviving A-12s worldwide, the aircraft offers visitors an up-close view of its advanced aerodynamics, titanium construction, and unique features that enabled it to evade radar and outpace threats during the Cold War.

Exhibit Highlights:

Close-up viewing of the A-12’s aerodynamic lines and titanium skin
Interpretive panels and multimedia presentations on its development, missions, and technological impact
Connections to other significant aircraft in the museum’s collection

Planning Your Visit: Hours, Tickets, and Location

Museum Hours

Standard Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Summer/Peak: Extended hours to 6:00 PM on weekends and holidays (check Intrepid Museum Visiting Hours for updates)
Closed: Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

Ticketing Information

Adults: $33–$36
Seniors (65+) / College Students: $31–$34
Children (5–12): $24–$26
Children under 5: Free
Discounts: Available for military, veterans, NYC residents, CityPASS holders, and with select promotions
Purchase: Online in advance is highly recommended for entry and to avoid lines (Intrepid Museum Tickets)

Location and Directions

Address: Pier 86, W 46th St & 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Subway: A, C, E to 42nd Street–Port Authority; then a short walk or bus ride west to Pier 86
Bus: M42, M50, and crosstown lines; stops near 12th Avenue
Ferry: NY Waterway ferries from New Jersey dock adjacent to the museum
Parking: Limited nearby; public transportation strongly recommended (en.northleg.com)

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Wheelchair Accessibility: Elevators and ramps provide access to the flight deck and main exhibits
Restrooms: Accessible and family restrooms available throughout the museum
Sensory Resources: Sensory bags and lightweight stools for visitors who may need them
Nursing Mothers’ Rooms: Available on site
Assistive Devices: Audio guides and assistive listening devices for visitors with hearing impairments
Health and Safety: Enhanced cleaning, hand sanitizing stations, and timed entry protocols; check for current COVID-19 guidelines (Intrepid Museum Visitor Info)

Tips for Visiting the Lockheed A-12 Exhibit

Best Times: Arrive early on weekdays for a quieter, less crowded experience
Dress Appropriately: The flight deck is outdoors—bring sunscreen or rain gear as needed
Photography: Excellent natural light; late afternoon is ideal for dramatic photos
Guided Tours: Enrich your visit with docent-led or audio tours
Full Experience: Allocate 2–3 hours to explore the A-12, Space Shuttle Enterprise, Growler submarine, and more

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Lockheed A-12 included with general admission?
A: Yes, access to the A-12 is part of your museum ticket.

Q: Can visitors enter or touch the A-12?
A: The aircraft is for viewing only; entry or physical contact is not permitted.

Q: Are educational programs about the A-12 available?
A: Yes, the museum offers interactive learning and STEM activities for all ages.

Q: Is the museum suitable for children?
A: Absolutely—the exhibits and family programming are engaging for all ages.

Q: Are special events held around the A-12?
A: Check the museum’s events calendar for current and upcoming programs.

About the Lockheed A-12: A Brief Overview

The Lockheed A-12 is a Cold War-era reconnaissance jet, built for the CIA to carry out high-altitude, high-speed surveillance missions. First flown in 1962, it reached speeds over Mach 3.2 and operated above 85,000 feet. Only 13 were produced, making it an exceptionally rare aircraft. The A-12’s advanced design led directly to the development of the SR-71 Blackbird, influencing generations of stealth and reconnaissance platforms (worldxplorr.com).

Lockheed A-12: History, Preservation, and Visitor Experience

Historical Context and Significance

The A-12 was the world’s fastest, highest-flying operational jet when introduced, representing a pinnacle in Cold War espionage technology. Its titanium frame, stealthy profile, and Pratt & Whitney J58 engines enabled it to evade enemy detection and outpace threats, playing an essential role in U.S. intelligence gathering from 1963 to 1968 (worldxplorr.com).

Display and Conservation

Displayed on the Intrepid’s flight deck alongside other historic aircraft, the A-12 benefits from ongoing preservation efforts. The museum’s conservation team employs protective coatings, routine inspections, and environmental monitoring to safeguard the aircraft’s integrity despite its outdoor exhibition (holidify.com).

Educational Value

Interpretive panels and guided tours illuminate the A-12’s development, missions, and technological innovations. The exhibit serves as a focal point for STEM education and Cold War history, engaging visitors with stories of innovation, risk, and achievement.

Location and Access

Address: Pier 86, Twelfth Avenue at West 46th Street, Manhattan, NY 10036
Subway: A, C, E to 42nd St–Port Authority, then a brief walk or bus ride west
Bus: M42, M50, M34; stops near the museum
Ferry: NY Waterway ferry from New Jersey
Parking: Limited; public transit or rideshare is recommended (en.northleg.com, Secret NYC)

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Standard Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily), extended to 6:00 PM weekends/holidays (April–September)
Last Entry: One hour before closing
Tickets: Purchase online for fastest entry (Intrepid Museum Tickets)
Discounts: Available via CityPASS, military/veteran ID, and other promotions

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Dining: Aviator Grill (American fare, views of Pier 86), Intrepid Marketplace (quick-service classics)
Gift Shops: Aviation and space-themed gifts, memorabilia
Restrooms: Accessible facilities throughout
Interactive Map: Museum amenities and map
Family Activities: Exploreum and hands-on science exhibits
Flight Simulators: For an additional fee, experience the thrill of flight (Intrepid Museum Amenities)

Nearby Attractions

Hudson River Park: Waterfront walking and biking paths
DeWitt Clinton Park: Urban green space, sports fields
Chelsea Market: Food hall and shops (0.7 miles south)
Hudson Yards: Shopping and The Vessel (0.8 miles east)
Times Square: Iconic NYC destination (1 mile east)
Central Park and the Met: 2.2 miles northeast
Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island: Accessible by ferry (Headout)

Summary and Visitor Tips

Visiting the Lockheed A-12 at the Intrepid Museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into the height of Cold War innovation and aerospace technology. The exhibit is accessible, educational, and set against the dramatic Manhattan skyline, making it a highlight for families, students, history buffs, and travelers alike. To maximize your visit:

Purchase tickets online and check current hours in advance
Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds
Dress for the weather (the flight deck is outdoors)
Explore related exhibits and nearby landmarks for a full-day experience
Check for updated health and safety protocols before your visit

For the latest information, ticket deals, and virtual content, download the Audiala app and follow the Intrepid Museum on social media. Start planning your journey into Cold War history and aerospace achievement today (holidify.com, The Empty Nest Explorers).