The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
A vast museum celebrating American ingenuity, featuring iconic artifacts like Rosa Parks' bus and JFK's limo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore.
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast museum celebrating American ingenuity, featuring iconic artifacts like Rosa Parks' bus and JFK's limo.
"The best museum I have been to in my life, hands down."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for special events like Halloween at Greenfield Village. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rosa Parks Bus
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Sit in the seat that sparked a movement. A powerful reminder of courage and civil rights history.
+2Abraham Lincoln's Assassination Chair
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
The actual chair President Lincoln was sitting in during his assassination. A somber and significant artifact.
+2
JFK's Presidential Limousine
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
The car President Kennedy was assassinated in, a chilling piece of American history.
+1
Dymaxion House
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Explore R. Buckminster Fuller's futuristic, aluminum 'House of the Future' from 1946.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Consider a Membership
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for special events like Halloween at Greenfield Village. :admission_tickets:
Don't Miss the Diner
Step back in time at Lamy's Diner for an affordable and nostalgic meal. :forkandknife:
Consider a Membership
Great value if you plan multiple visits or want access to special events. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for special events like Halloween at Greenfield Village. :admission_tickets:
Don't Miss the Diner
Step back in time at Lamy's Diner for an affordable and nostalgic meal. :forkandknife:
Consider a Membership
Great value if you plan multiple visits or want access to special events. :moneybag:
Explore Greenfield Village
Disassembled historic buildings reassembled for a living history experience. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation as an exceptional and eclectic collection of American history and ingenuity. Many describe it as the best museum they've ever visited, highlighting the vastness of the exhibits and the profound impact of the artifacts. While some note the sheer scale can be overwhelming, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with many planning return visits.
"I'm from Chicago, home to some world class, and world famous museums. The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village is hands down the best museum I have been to in my life. We spent 3 full days there over two separate trips, and still haven't finished seeing it all!!! We'll be going back again in the spring to finish it up. The place can only be described as "incredible". An amazing, and eclectic collection of artifacts from American history that will grab your attention at every turn. Greenfield Village is largely a collection of buildings of historical significance that were disassembled where they originally stood across America, and painstakingly reassembled on the grounds of Greenfield. Simply amazing.
I highly recommend buying a membership if you plan to attend more than one day. Also plan to see all giant screen movies (you won't be sorry) , and definitely go on the Rouge Factory Tour. It's AMAZING!!! OH YES, and take a MODEL T ride in Greenfield Village! Worth the wait!"
Larry Benrus
"We went to the Henry Ford Museum on my birthday and it was a great experience. Going in, I thought my wife would be bored from it, but she absolutely loved it. There were items from different eras of Americana. We decided on doing the indoor museum upon the threat of rain. I was thinking we'd other be there for a couple hours at most, as we don't dive deep into reading everything, but we literally left at closing. There was JFK's car, trains, old machinery, furniture, Abraham Lincoln's chair, and the actual bus that Rosa Parks sat on. Sitting in her seat, I reflected on how she must have felt. We learned so much. We also ate at the diner that was near the entrance. It was very affordable. I've been here 20 yesrs ago with my father and so much has changed and added. We can't wait to come back for the outdoor museum."
Chris
"This is a must to visit museum. So much historic items. Plan to be here all day. There are clean restrooms, restaurants to eat at and easy to walk around. Fun Fun Fun. You will enjoy every turn you make. Henry Ford did things awesome when.it comes to preserving historic items."
Peter Slowik
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Henry Ford Museum is located in Dearborn, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options include bus routes that serve the Dearborn area. Many visitors find it convenient to drive, especially if coming from out of town.
Yes, The Henry Ford offers ample parking for visitors. There is typically a fee for parking, so it's advisable to check their official website for the most current rates before your visit.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a popular and convenient way to reach The Henry Ford. Drivers are familiar with the location, and it can be a good option if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking.
Yes, several Detroit bus routes connect to Dearborn, making The Henry Ford accessible via public transport. Check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information on routes and times.
If you're flying in, the nearest major airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). From there, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service to reach The Henry Ford in Dearborn.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on whether you're visiting just the museum, Greenfield Village, or a combination. It's recommended to check The Henry Ford's official website for the most current pricing and package options.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This often saves time and can sometimes offer discounts. It's especially crucial for popular events that sell out quickly.
The Henry Ford often offers discounts for seniors, students, and children. They also have special pricing for members. Check their website for details on any available promotions or group rates.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and on holidays. It's best to consult The Henry Ford's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date operating hours for both the museum and Greenfield Village.
Yes, Greenfield Village typically requires a separate admission ticket from the Henry Ford Museum. However, combination tickets are often available for a discounted price if you plan to visit both.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Rosa Parks' bus, Abraham Lincoln's assassination chair, JFK's presidential limousine, and the Dymaxion House. The museum boasts an eclectic collection of American history artifacts.
Absolutely! The museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that engage children. The 'Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep Shear Genius!' exhibit is particularly family-friendly.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least a full day, if not two, to fully experience both the museum and Greenfield Village. You can easily spend 2-3 hours just in the museum alone.
The Henry Ford offers various guided tours and experiences, including insights from museum staff like Cynthia Jones, Director of Museum Experiences & Engagement. Check their schedule for availability.
Greenfield Village is an outdoor living history museum featuring historic buildings from across America, reassembled on-site. It offers a glimpse into different eras of American life and innovation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Henry Ford Museum has dining options, including the fully operational Lamy's Diner, which offers a 1946-era dining experience. There are also other cafes and eateries within the museum complex.
Lamy's Diner offers classic diner fare, providing an affordable and nostalgic meal. It's a popular spot for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the 1940s atmosphere.
Dining options within The Henry Ford typically offer a variety of choices. It's advisable to check the menus at the specific eateries for the most up-to-date information on vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary accommodations.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum. However, there may be designated areas for picnics outside the main buildings. It's best to confirm their policy on their website.
The dining options at The Henry Ford range in price. Lamy's Diner is noted as being very affordable. Other cafes and restaurants may have different price points, so it's good to check menus beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside The Henry Ford Museum. However, flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Always look for signage.
Iconic artifacts like Rosa Parks' bus, JFK's limousine, and the Dymaxion House make for striking photographs. The diverse collection of cars, trains, and planes also offers many photo opportunities.
The museum is indoors, so lighting is controlled. However, visiting during less crowded times (weekdays) can allow for clearer shots without people in the background.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited inside and around The Henry Ford property for safety and preservation reasons.
Commercial photography or videography typically requires special permission and may involve fees. Contact The Henry Ford's media relations department for inquiries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a full day, as there's a lot to see and do, and kids often have a blast exploring the diverse collection of cars, planes, and historical items. Consider visiting Greenfield Village for an even more immersive experience. The living history aspect, with costumed interpreters and working crafts, can be fascinating for younger minds. Don't miss the chance for a Model T ride or a steam train journey in the village – these are often highlights for kids.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts
+2 The museum showcases the evolution of automotive design and engineering, offering deconstructed vehicles and insights into manufacturing processes. Don't miss the Old Car Festival in Greenfield Village, the longest-running antique car show in the country, which offers a fantastic opportunity to see a vast collection of vintage automobiles in action.
🏛️ History Buffs
+3 The sheer breadth of the collection, spanning centuries of American innovation and culture, is astounding. Greenfield Village complements the museum by offering a living history perspective. Exploring the reassembled historic buildings and interacting with costumed interpreters provides a deeper understanding of daily life in different eras.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Henry Ford and Innovation
The museum's collection is a testament to this legacy, showcasing not only Ford's vehicles but also other groundbreaking inventions and artifacts that represent the evolution of American life. From early locomotives and aircraft to iconic presidential limousines and everyday objects, each exhibit tells a story of human creativity and problem-solving. Visitors can explore the impact of these innovations on daily life, work, and culture.
+2Beyond the tangible artifacts, The Henry Ford aims to inspire future innovators. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, it encourages visitors to think critically about the past and envision the future. The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting these stories ensures that the spirit of American innovation continues to be celebrated and understood by new generations.
Iconic Artifacts and Their Stories
+2 This exhibit offers a tangible connection to a struggle for equality and a reminder of the power of individual action.Equally profound is Abraham Lincoln's assassination chair, a somber artifact that brings a critical moment in U.S. history to life.
+2 The museum also houses President John F. Kennedy's presidential limousine, the vehicle in which he was tragically assassinated, offering a chilling glimpse into a national tragedy. +1 These items are not just historical objects; they are powerful symbols that evoke strong emotions and encourage reflection on pivotal events.Beyond these solemn pieces, the museum showcases the Dymaxion House, a visionary design by R. Buckminster Fuller from 1946, representing futuristic housing concepts.
+1 The collection also features an impressive array of vintage automobiles, locomotives, and aircraft, highlighting the evolution of transportation and American ingenuity. +2 Each artifact, from the mundane to the monumental, contributes to a rich tapestry of American history and innovation.Experiencing American History Through Living Exhibits
Greenfield Village is particularly famous for its extensive collection of antique automobiles, hosting the longest-running antique car show in the country.
Special events at Greenfield Village, such as the popular Halloween at Greenfield Village, transform the experience into a festive and nostalgic celebration.
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