
National Motor Museum Birdwood
Explore Australia's motoring past with a vast collection of rare, vintage, and iconic vehicles, including a special tribute to Holden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Special events and lively atmosphere

National Motor Museum Birdwood
Best Time
Special events and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Australia's motoring past with a vast collection of rare, vintage, and iconic vehicles, including a special tribute to Holden.
"A real gem in a historic setting with a great collection of very unique vehicles and motorcycles."

🚗 Car Enthusiast's Dream
A must-visit for Holden fans and car lovers, with rare models and concept cars.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You could spend hours here; plan for at least 2-3 hours to see everything.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Holden's Legacy
Special Holden Exhibit
Explore iconic Holden models, including concept cars like the Hurricane and Efijy, and a VF Commodore signed by staff.

Whacky & Wonderful Vehicles
Main Exhibition Hall
Discover unique vehicles like Telecom's giant telephone car and a Mad Max prop, showcasing Australian automotive ingenuity.

Vintage and Rare Collections
Various Display Areas
Admire a vast and unique selection of cars and motorcycles from all eras, including rare models and prototypes.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Birdwood
Ticketing and Payment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car Enthusiast's Dream
A must-visit for Holden fans and car lovers, with rare models and concept cars.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You could spend hours here; plan for at least 2-3 hours to see everything.
💳 Card Payments Only
Remember, the museum is cashless for admissions and purchases.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Day
Great for all ages, with interactive displays and comfortable reading areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car Enthusiast's Dream
A must-visit for Holden fans and car lovers, with rare models and concept cars.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You could spend hours here; plan for at least 2-3 hours to see everything.
💳 Card Payments Only
Remember, the museum is cashless for admissions and purchases.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Day
Great for all ages, with interactive displays and comfortable reading areas.
☕ Nearby Bakery
Grab a bite at the bakery across the road for a break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Motor Museum for its vast and unique collection of vehicles, particularly its tribute to Australian motoring history and iconic brands like Holden. The museum is described as a gem, offering an engaging experience for all ages with its well-presented cars and informative displays. Some visitors noted the cashless payment policy as a drawback.
"Probably the premium motor museum in Australia and a must for anyone into motoring. We were there as a 100 strong motoring group and were catered for very nicely. Friendly staff and a great little town to explore made it a great stop for all of us."
Russell Arnold
"We were fortunate to have Matthew Lombard, take us (ex Holden employees from Victoria & Adelaide) on the tour which lasted 2 hrs. A real national treasure. Thoroughly recommend visit."
Russel Nainie
"Wonderful place to visit. Spent several hours here. Great for young and old. Lots of memories for those of us who remember the various vehicles. Well set out and you really need to look in every space. The "unfilling" station made me giggle. The sculpture was amazing lots to see and do. Highly recommend it. And if you need to take a break, I can recommend the couch in the reading area next to Alice Anderson exhibit. So comfy! You can sit and read one of the books with the younger children."
Karen Heward
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Motor Museum is located in Birdwood, South Australia, in the Adelaide Hills. It's accessible by car, and many visitors combine a trip here with other attractions in the region like Hahndorf. The Bay to Birdwood event also culminates at the museum, making it a destination for participants and spectators.
Yes, there is parking available at the National Motor Museum. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak times or special events, to secure a spot.
Absolutely! The National Motor Museum is a popular day trip destination from Adelaide, located about an hour's drive away. You can easily combine it with visits to other Adelaide Hills attractions.
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official website before your visit. Generally, it's open daily, but specific times might differ on public holidays or during special events.
The museum is generally accessible, with most exhibits on the ground floor. However, it's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information if you have particular concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and special event pricing may apply. For example, during the Bay to Birdwood Finish Festival, discounted entry to the museum is available. It's recommended to check their website for the most current pricing.
No, the National Motor Museum does not accept cash for admissions or in-store purchases. Visitors must use card or digital payment methods.
Yes, discounts may be available, such as winter deals that bundle entry with other museums, or special pricing during events like the Bay to Birdwood. Check their website or social media for current offers.
It's often possible to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for special events. This can save you time upon arrival. Check the museum's official website for online ticketing options.
General admission typically includes access to all permanent and temporary exhibitions. Special events might have separate ticketing or package deals that include museum entry.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the extensive Holden collection, including concept cars like the Hurricane and Efijy. Also, look out for unique vehicles like the giant telephone car and Mad Max props. The museum also features a vast array of vintage cars and motorcycles from various eras.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is a good amount of time to explore the museum thoroughly. However, car enthusiasts might want to spend longer, potentially half a day, to appreciate every detail.
Yes, the museum offers interactive displays that make it engaging for younger visitors. There are also comfortable reading areas with books for children.
The National Motor Museum is very family-friendly, offering a mix of historical exhibits and engaging displays that appeal to all ages.
You'll find a wide range of vehicles, from early motoring pioneers to modern classics, including Australian-made cars, European sports cars, and unique custom builds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself may not have extensive dining options, there is a bakery conveniently located across the road, perfect for a quick bite or a coffee break.
Information on bringing outside food and drinks is not explicitly stated, but it's generally good practice to consume them in designated areas or outside the exhibition spaces. Check with the museum for their specific policy.
Birdwood and the surrounding Adelaide Hills region offer several dining options. The bakery across the road is a convenient choice, and nearby towns like Hahndorf have a variety of cafes and restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods, especially around delicate exhibits.
The iconic Holden concept cars, the vintage vehicles, and the unique displays like the telephone car offer great photo opportunities. The exterior of the museum and the surrounding Adelaide Hills scenery can also be picturesque.
For personal use, photography is usually permitted. If you plan to use photos for commercial purposes or extensive blogging, it's best to contact the museum's media relations department beforehand to seek permission.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around public attractions and national parks. Always check local aviation regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone in the vicinity of the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
Plan for at least a few hours to explore, and consider packing some snacks or utilizing the bakery across the road for a convenient meal. The museum's focus on Australian motoring history also offers an educational element, making it a fun and informative outing for the whole family.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Bringing your own water bottle and utilizing the nearby bakery for affordable snacks can also help manage costs.
enthusiasts
Take your time to read the detailed information provided for each exhibit, as it offers insights into the engineering, design, and cultural significance of these vehicles. The museum's commitment to preserving Australian motoring heritage makes it a must-visit for anyone passionate about cars.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Australian Motoring: Holden at Birdwood
Beyond the production models, the museum features rare and irreplaceable concept cars like the Hurricane and the Efijy, which highlight the bold and innovative spirit of Australian car manufacturing. These vehicles are not just machines; they represent a significant chapter in the nation's industrial and cultural history. For many, seeing these cars evokes strong memories and a sense of national pride.
Whether you're a lifelong Holden enthusiast or simply appreciate automotive history, the collection at Birdwood offers a compelling journey through one of Australia's most beloved car brands. It's a chance to connect with a piece of automotive heritage that continues to resonate with many.
Beyond the Classics: Unique and Quirky Exhibits
Adding to the eclectic mix, the museum also features a Mad Max prop, hinting at the cinematic legacy of Australian vehicles. These less conventional displays demonstrate that the museum is not just about historical accuracy but also about celebrating the diverse and sometimes eccentric expressions of automotive culture.
These unusual exhibits, alongside the more conventional displays of vintage cars and motorcycles, ensure that there's always something surprising and engaging for every visitor. They contribute to the museum's charm and make it a place where you can discover not only the history of motoring but also its cultural impact and creative spirit.
The Bay to Birdwood: A Celebration of Motoring Heritage
Attending the Finish Festival at the museum offers a chance to see these incredible machines up close, often with special retro pricing on entry tickets, making it an affordable and exciting day out. The atmosphere is electric, with entertainment, food, and the shared passion for motoring history creating a memorable occasion.
This event not only showcases a stunning collection of vehicles but also celebrates the ongoing connection between people and their cars, bridging generations of automotive passion. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of classic motoring and a perfect complement to a visit to the National Motor Museum.






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