Ta Con Airport Relic Museum
A battlefield frozen in time.
4.3 ⭐ (780)
Introduction
Ta Con Airport Relic Museum (Di tích Sân bay Tà Cơn) is a historical site in Quang Tri province that preserves the remnants of the Khe Sanh Combat Base. Located near the former Demilitarized Zone, the open-air museum documents the 77-day siege that occurred here in 1968. The site serves as a memorial and educational center, featuring preserved military hardware, reconstructed fortifications, and a collection of wartime artifacts.
Outdoor Military Hardware Display
The grounds feature an extensive collection of restored or original military equipment left from the war. Visitors can see a massive C-130 Hercules transport plane, CH-47 Chinook and UH-1 "Huey" helicopters, M48 tanks, and various artillery pieces arranged across the former battlefield.
Bunker and Trench System
Walk through a network of restored bunkers and deep trenches to understand the harsh conditions soldiers endured during the prolonged siege. These reconstructions offer a direct sense of the base's defensive layout and the close-quarters nature of the conflict.
Main Exhibition House
The indoor museum provides historical context to the battle. It contains maps, photographs, official documents, and personal effects of soldiers from both sides, presenting a narrative of the "Dien Bien Phu in the air" victory.
Getting there
From Dong Ha City to Ta Con Airport (approx. 75 km):
🚗 Taxi: 90-120 mins | 800,000 - 1,200,000 VND ~ $31 - $47 USD
Best arranged as a day hire, often as part of a larger DMZ tour.
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Gojek): Not readily available for long-distance trips in this region. It is better to hire a private car with a driver for the day.
🚌 Public Bus: Not a direct or practical option for tourists.
🛵 Motorbike: 2 - 2.5 hours
A common option for experienced riders looking to explore the region independently.
⚠️ The most common way to visit is by hiring a private car or motorbike from Dong Ha or as part of an organized DMZ tour. The roads are generally in good condition but the journey is long.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Notes: The site is open year-round, including public holidays.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Adults: 40,000 VND ~ $1.60 USD
- Children: 20,000 VND ~ $0.80 USD
- Notes: Tickets are purchased at the entrance gate on-site. The fee contributes to the preservation of this national historic relic.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The best time to visit is during the dry season from March to August. Plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat, as most of the site is outdoors with little shade.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the outdoor exhibits, trench systems, and the main museum building without feeling rushed.
Tips from locals
Local tips
☀️ As the museum is almost entirely outdoors and exposed, wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential, especially during the dry season. Bring your own water as facilities on-site are limited.
👟 The grounds are large and require a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended over sandals or flip-flops for exploring the trenches and fields.
💡 For a much deeper understanding of the Battle of Khe Sanh and its historical significance, consider hiring a local guide. Their personal stories and detailed explanations can transform the visit from simply viewing old military gear into a profound historical lesson.
Be aware
⚠️ The museum is in a remote rural area. Ensure you have your transportation for the return journey arranged beforehand, as you cannot easily find a taxi or bus for hire directly at the site.
🧐 The exhibits and information panels present the history of the conflict from a Vietnamese perspective. Visitors may find the narrative differs from what they have learned from Western sources, which can be an educational experience in itself.
FAQs
What is Ta Con Airport?
Ta Con Airport is the local name for the former Khe Sanh Combat Base, a major strategic outpost of the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War.
What is the historical significance of Khe Sanh?
It was the site of a famous and brutal 77-day siege in 1968, where North Vietnamese forces surrounded and attacked the U.S. base. It is considered one of the most significant battles of the war.
How much is the entrance fee for Ta Con Airport Museum?
The entrance fee is approximately 40,000 VND (~$1.60 USD) for adults.
What are the opening hours?
The museum is typically open every day from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
How long should I spend at the museum?
A visit of 1.5 to 2 hours is recommended to see all the exhibits thoroughly.
What can I see at the museum?
You can see preserved military hardware like planes and tanks, a reconstructed bunker and trench system, and an indoor exhibition hall with artifacts and photographs.
Is it possible to visit without a tour guide?
Yes, you can visit independently. However, a guide is highly recommended to provide historical context and make the visit more meaningful.
Is the site suitable for children?
The subject matter is related to war and can be intense. It is more suitable for older children and adults with an interest in history.
How far is Ta Con from Dong Ha city?
It is approximately 75 kilometers west of Dong Ha, the capital of Quang Tri province.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
The indoor museum is generally accessible, but the outdoor areas with trenches and uneven ground present significant challenges for wheelchairs.
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