Unearth The Voyage
Ever dreamed of dining at 30,000 feet without leaving the ground? In Colorado Springs, that dream becomes reality at The Airplane Restaurant. This unique eatery is housed inside a restored 1953 Boeing KC-97 tanker aircraft that once served the U.S. Air Force. Now instead of refueling jets mid-flight, it fuels hungry diners with an experience they won’t soon forget.
From Military Marvel to Mealtime Magic
What was once a massive military refueling tanker now serves burgers instead of jet fuel. The Boeing KC-97 Stratofreighter at the heart of this restaurant completed countless missions for the U.S. Air Force before finding its forever home in Colorado Springs in 2002.
Rather than facing the scrapyard, this magnificent aircraft was lovingly restored and transformed into one of America’s most unique dining venues. The conversion preserved many original elements while adding comfortable seating for up to 42 guests inside the actual fuselage.
The gleaming aluminum interior, with its exposed rivets and authentic aircraft details, creates an atmosphere no conventional restaurant could match. Walking through the cabin door feels like stepping back in time to the golden age of aviation—except now there’s steak on the menu!
A Flying Museum Experience
Meals come with a side of history at this aviation-themed establishment. Throughout both the aircraft and the connected terminal building, walls are adorned with genuine flight memorabilia, historic photographs, and authentic pilot gear that tell the story of American aviation.
Guests can explore the cockpit, complete with original instrumentation that pilots once used to navigate this massive aircraft across continents. Children’s eyes widen as they sit in the captain’s seat, imagining themselves soaring through clouds while parents snap memorable photos.
Staff members often share fascinating tidbits about the plane’s service history or explain how various aircraft components functioned. The restaurant essentially doubles as an interactive aviation museum where touching the exhibits isn’t just allowed—it’s encouraged!
Family-Friendly Sky-High Fun
Squeals of excitement typically accompany families as they first spot the massive aircraft from the parking lot. Parents appreciate how the novelty of eating inside a real airplane naturally creates memorable moments without anyone reaching for electronic devices.
Kids become instant aviation enthusiasts, bouncing between bites of their meals to explore different sections of the plane. The restaurant provides special airplane-themed activity sheets and crayons to young diners, keeping them entertained while waiting for their food.
Many families report that conversations naturally drift toward discussions about travel, flight, and dreams of adventure. Birthday celebrations take on special significance here, with the unique setting providing a backdrop no ordinary restaurant could match. The staff goes above and beyond to accommodate special occasions with aviation-themed surprises.
Runway-Worthy Comfort Food
Hunger takes flight with a menu designed to please everyone from picky eaters to adventurous foodies. Aviation-themed names add playful touches to classic American fare—try ordering a “Jet Fuel Burger” or “First Class Fries” with a straight face!
Portion sizes reflect the aircraft’s massive scale, with hearty servings that ensure no one leaves hungry. Signature dishes include the BBQ Bomber Burger topped with onion rings and tangy sauce, and the Philly Flyer sandwich loaded with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese.
Despite the novelty of the setting, the kitchen takes food quality seriously. Fresh ingredients and made-to-order preparation elevate what could be gimmicky into genuinely satisfying meals. The full-service bar offers aviation-themed cocktails for adults, while specialty milkshakes delight younger passengers on this culinary journey.
A Colorado Springs Icon
Veteran-owned and operated since opening day, The Airplane Restaurant has grown from curiosity to cherished landmark. Owner Steve Kanatzar, a former pilot himself, brought his passion for aviation to this venture, creating something truly special in Colorado’s dining landscape.
Travel guides consistently recommend it as a must-visit destination, earning it a place among the most photographed spots in Colorado Springs. Locals proudly bring out-of-town guests here, knowing the experience will leave a lasting impression that ordinary restaurants simply cannot match.
The restaurant has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and dozens of countries, with many aviation enthusiasts making special pilgrimages just to dine here. Its guest book contains thousands of signatures from people who came for the novelty but left impressed by both the concept and execution of this sky-high dining experience.
Perfectly Positioned for Pit Stops
Location adds another layer of appeal to this already distinctive dining destination. Situated at 1665 N. Newport Road, just minutes from Interstate 25 and the Colorado Springs Airport, the restaurant proves remarkably convenient for travelers and locals alike.
Many visitors discover it while flying in or out of the city, making it an ideal first or last stop on Colorado adventures. The irony of eating inside a grounded airplane before boarding an actual flight isn’t lost on travelers who appreciate the unique bookending of their journey.
Open seven days a week from 11 AM until 8 PM (9 PM on weekends), the restaurant accommodates various schedules. Those hoping to dine inside the actual aircraft rather than the connected terminal building should call ahead for reservations, as the 42 seats within the plane itself are highly coveted and fill quickly, especially during tourist season.
