
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.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 2,399 reviews
Type
Museum
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
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.






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