I'm a big fan of early aircraft, and my 3 yr old loves
anything to do with flight,

In that case, you absolutely MUST go to Old Rhinebeck. It's a
wonderful show! I've been there about four times, and am itching to
return.

Plan on being there both Saturday and Sunday; the shows are different.
If you can be there only one day, make it Sunday. They re-fight World
War I in the air. You'll see Percy Goodfellow, RFC ace, in aerial
combat with the Black Baron (BOO! HISS!) for the honor of his
(Percy's) fiancee, whom the Black Barton has kidnapped.

You'll see (and HEAR!) a Sopwith Camel, a Fokker Tripe, a Spad, an
Avro 508, and other WW I types, all flying, provided the wx is good.

If you have far to go, make sure the wdx will be good, with light
winds.

The Saturday show is more of a "history of early aviation." I
enjopyed every minute, but it's not quite as much fun as Sunday's
show.

There are a lot quite a few aircraft on display, as wellas some old
cars and other such stuff..

You can find more info on their website:

http://www.oldrhinebeck.org/

but I'm not so sure my not-at-all-interested in airplanes wife will be thrilled. ;-)

I saw many families there; everyone enjoys the show because it's high
melodrama-- corny, but fun-- as well as a flying exhibition.

How long are the shows,

Much too short. Perhaps two hours.

what did you think of the piloting, etc?

They put on a good show.

(No, I wasn't paid to plug the show. I'm just a delighted repeat
customer.)

And GTW, the oldest inn in the country is located in Rhinebeck.
Great food, lots of ambieance, prices only slightly higher than most
other restaurants.

vince norris