National Automobile Museum
Explore the fascinating evolution of automotive technology with a stunning collection of vintage cars and unique vehicles.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Save money and enjoy family fun
National Automobile Museum
Best Time
Save money and enjoy family fun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the fascinating evolution of automotive technology with a stunning collection of vintage cars and unique vehicles.
"A very cool experience and a must-stop if you are in the area."
🎯 Grab an Audio Guide
Detailed audio guides offer in-depth info on exhibits, enhancing your visit .
🚗 Park Nearby
Reasonably-priced parking is available close to the museum entrance .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Car Collection
Explore a vast array of classic cars and bikes spanning from the 1890s to modern marvels.

Citroën DS
French Cars Exhibit
Marvel at the iconic and unique design of the French Citroën DS.

Lancia Stratos
Sports Cars Exhibit
Admire the striking banana-yellow Lancia Stratos, a standout for many visitors.

Beatnik Bandit
Custom Cars Exhibit
See the legendary custom car created by Ed 'Big Daddy' Roth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the National Automobile Museum
Getting There and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Grab an Audio Guide
Detailed audio guides offer in-depth info on exhibits, enhancing your visit.
🚗 Park Nearby
Reasonably-priced parking is available close to the museum entrance.
💰 Free Admission Day
Check for Free Admission Days for a budget-friendly family outing.
⏳ Allow Enough Time
Plan for 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection, though some leave sooner.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Grab an Audio Guide
Detailed audio guides offer in-depth info on exhibits, enhancing your visit.
🚗 Park Nearby
Reasonably-priced parking is available close to the museum entrance.
💰 Free Admission Day
Check for Free Admission Days for a budget-friendly family outing.
⏳ Allow Enough Time
Plan for 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection, though some leave sooner.
✨ Friendly Staff
Expect enthusiastic and friendly staff eager to share their knowledge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Automobile Museum for its impressive collection of vintage cars and unique vehicles, highlighting the value for money and the informative audio guides. The friendly staff and the engaging atmosphere, especially during special events, also receive high marks. While some find the museum smaller than expected, most agree it's a worthwhile stop for car enthusiasts and families alike.
"A very cool experience and a must-stop if you are in the area. Staff were very friendly and enthusiastic. There is a considerable amount of older cars and, as others have pointed out, the audio guides are very detailed and informative.
For those driving in, there is also a parking lot close-by that is reasonably-priced."
Nick
"It's a small but great collection of cars with the highlight for me being the banana yellow Lancia Stratos. The price is fair, the staff are super friendly, and you get a really interesting audio guide (unusual for car museums)."
Tim P
"Some truly beautiful unique cars bikes here. We really enjoyed it. Very cheap access fee too."
Victoria Barnfield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Automobile Museum is located in Reno, Nevada. It's easily accessible by car, and there's a reasonably-priced parking lot nearby.
If you're planning a road trip with your own vehicle, it's a welcoming destination.Yes, there is a parking lot adjacent to the museum that is considered reasonably-priced by visitors.
Absolutely! The museum is a great spot for car enthusiasts, and visitors have mentioned bringing their own cars, like a Miata, to visit.
While not explicitly stated as a scenic route, the museum is noted as a must-see on the Lincoln Highway, a historic transcontinental highway in the US.
Operating hours can vary, especially for special events like Free Admission Day.
It's best to check the official museum website for the most current hours.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally considered quite cheap, with many visitors feeling they got their money's worth and would have paid double.
Keep an eye out for Free Admission Days for an even better deal.Yes, discounts are often available, especially during special events like Free Admission Day, which also includes membership discounts.
For regular visits, booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it's always a good idea to check the museum's website, especially for special events.
Free Admission Day is a special event where the museum offers complimentary entry to all visitors, often featuring extra activities like face painting, movies, and food trucks.
The museum is generally accessible, with exhibits organized by floor. Audio guides are available in multiple languages.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
Many visitors highly recommend using the detailed audio guides, which provide extensive information about the vehicles and their history.
Allow 1-2 hours to explore the collection thoroughly.Highlights include the unique Citroën DS,
the striking banana-yellow Lancia Stratos, and Ed 'Big Daddy' Roth's custom Beatnik Bandit. The collection spans from the 1890s onwards.Yes, the museum often features hands-on and interactive exhibits, especially during special events like Free Admission Day, which also includes activities like face painting.
While some visitors can see the highlights in about 30 minutes, most people spend 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection and utilize the audio guides.
Absolutely! It's a dream destination for car lovers, featuring a wide range of vintage cars, custom builds, and even specific models like the Corvette
and classic French cars.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During special events like Free Admission Day, food trucks are often available.
For daily visits, it's advisable to check the museum's website or plan to dine nearby.Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museums. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit.
Yes, the museum is located in an area with various dining options. For example, the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles has a cafe with espresso drinks and meals,
suggesting similar amenities might be found in the vicinity of other auto museums.📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the exhibits. Always check for posted signs or ask staff if unsure.
The unique designs of cars like the Citroën DS
and the vibrant colors of vehicles like the banana-yellow Lancia Stratos make for great photo opportunities. The custom Beatnik Bandit is also a visually striking subject.While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or the use of tripods might require special permission. Flash photography is often discouraged.
Similar to photography, personal video recording is typically allowed. However, professional filming may require prior authorization from the museum.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, would be useful for capturing both wide shots of the cars and details. A prime lens like a 50mm f/1.8 can be great for low-light conditions and isolating specific vehicles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for at least 1-2 hours to explore, ensuring kids don't feel rushed. The variety of vehicles, from early models to more modern classics, can capture their imagination. The museum's layout, often organized by era, can help make the historical progression easier for children to understand. Remember to check for any specific children's programming or activity sheets available.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Road Trippers
If you're on a road trip, especially along historic routes like the Lincoln Highway, this museum is a highly recommended stop. Visitors have noted the convenience of nearby parking and the welcoming atmosphere for those arriving in their own classic cars. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the artistry and engineering that has defined automotive history.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even on regular days, the affordable entry price, combined with the wealth of information provided by the free audio guides, makes for a highly rewarding experience without breaking the bank. Parking is also reasonably priced, adding to the overall affordability of a visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Automotive Technology
Each floor or section of the museum often represents a different period, allowing for a chronological exploration of automotive history. You'll encounter early pioneers, iconic models that became cultural touchstones, and even specialized vehicles like vintage taxis or military transport. The detailed audio guides are invaluable here, providing context on the technological leaps and the historical significance of each automobile.
Beyond the mechanics, the museum also touches upon the cultural impact of the automobile. Cars are not just machines; they are symbols of freedom, progress, and changing lifestyles. The exhibits often reflect how automotive design and technology have been influenced by societal trends, economic conditions, and artistic movements, making for a richer, more comprehensive understanding of automotive heritage.
Exploring Iconic and Unique Vehicles
For those interested in European automotive design, the Citroën DS is a significant highlight. This French marvel is celebrated for its futuristic styling and innovative engineering, making it a standout piece in the collection. The museum also features a broad spectrum of American classics, from early models to muscle cars, and even specialized vehicles like vintage Corvettes, showcasing the diversity of automotive design across different manufacturers and decades.
Whether you're drawn to the raw power of a classic American V8, the elegant lines of a European sports car, or the quirky charm of a custom build, the National Automobile Museum offers a compelling array of vehicles. The collection is curated to appeal to a wide range of interests, ensuring that every visitor can find something to marvel at and learn from.
Family Fun and Community Engagement
During these special days, the museum goes beyond just displaying cars; it becomes a place for celebration and connection. Interactive elements ensure that younger visitors are entertained and educated, while adults can appreciate the historical significance of the vehicles. The inclusion of activities like face painting and movies adds a festive touch, making it a well-rounded outing for everyone.
This commitment to community engagement extends to offering membership discounts and creating an environment where people can learn, connect, and share their passion for automobiles. It highlights the museum's role not just as a repository of history, but as a vibrant cultural institution that brings people together.
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