Studebaker National Museum South Bend
Explore three floors of automotive history, from presidential carriages to iconic Studebaker cars and military memorabilia.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Studebaker National Museum South Bend
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore three floors of automotive history, from presidential carriages to iconic Studebaker cars and military memorabilia.
"A fantastic museum on the history of Studebaker in South Bend and an Outstanding car collection. Highly Recommend!!!"

🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets must be purchased at the museum; online sales are not available.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 2-3 hours to explore all three floors of exhibits.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 1,834 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Presidential Carriages
First Floor
See the actual carriage Lincoln rode to Ford's Theatre and the one made for Lafayette's return.

Iconic Studebaker Cars
Second and Third Floors
Marvel at the evolution of Studebaker vehicles, from early models to the last car produced in 1966.

Military Memorabilia
Throughout the museum
Explore Studebaker's significant contributions during World War II, including military vehicles.

Horse-Drawn Vehicles
First Floor
Journey back in time with a diverse collection of antique horse-drawn wagons and carriages.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Studebaker National Museum
Tickets and Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets must be purchased at the museum; online sales are not available.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 2-3 hours to explore all three floors of exhibits.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available near the museum, check local signage.
🎁 Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique collectibles and children's toys in the museum gift shop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets must be purchased at the museum; online sales are not available.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 2-3 hours to explore all three floors of exhibits.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available near the museum, check local signage.
🎁 Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique collectibles and children's toys in the museum gift shop.
👨👩👧 Interactive Displays
Engaging exhibits make it fun for families and kids.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Studebaker National Museum for its impressive collection of well-maintained vehicles and historically significant carriages, particularly those linked to Lincoln and Lafayette. The museum offers a comprehensive look at Studebaker's legacy, with engaging displays suitable for families. Some visitors noted a desire for more 'bullet nose' models, but overall, the experience is highly recommended for its unique historical insights and automotive treasures.
"Loved the museum! We’re traveling with a trailer and stayed overnight in the parking lot (thanks Harvest Host!). Great location. Quiet and exactly what we needed. Enjoyed the museum once it opened the following day. Both museums were a fantastic way to spend a couple hours."
Keely Mahony
"It’s as much a story about an immigrant family named Studebäcker who came to America and first started out building Conestoga Wagons that carried many Settlers across this great land in the 1700’s. Learn how they built that company into a major modern Automobile and Vehicle manufacturer producing storied examples, mixing top technology and gorgeous design like the Avanti, Hawk and futuristic concepts like the Sceptre.
They produced some of the finest Cars in the industry, only to suffer like many others and die off in the mid 60’s.
What is forgotten is what Studebaker meant to this country, the South Bend Indiana factory once employed 26,000 workers, the company owned a major executive multi story building downtown New York and was also a producer supplier of WW 1 and 2 Tanks and Troop Vehicles as well as the production of many many products and innovations.
Folks this 3 story museum is a wonderful walk through history and it can be enjoyed by all ages. You can see it in less than 2 hours or take the “audio tour” and enjoy it in a day like we did."
James Kuenzi
"So, until a recent major 2nd visit to IN from Wisco, I had no idea of the state's rich auto heritage. The many stunning well maintained or restored cars are industrial design artworks, but I was really moved by two antique carriages. One was the cabriolet made for Lafayette on his triumphal return and procession through the United States he helped to create, and the other was the actual carriage Lincoln rode in to his fatal visit to Ford's theater. I was not expecting either and was completely dumbfounded. These are the type of treasures you see in the Smithsonian. Lovely to have them in the Midwest. In perusing the reviews, I noticed many Lincoln mentions, no Lafayette. He was part of George Washington's military "family", and it's quite possible that without his heroics the French may not have entered into an alliance with the budding United States against Great Britain to win our freedom in the Revolutionary War of Independence.
His return tour was a very big deal, and many places proudly tout that he spoke, ate or slept there."
S. Krug
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Studebaker National Museum is located at 201 Chapin St, South Bend, IN 46601. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the downtown South Bend area.
Yes, parking is generally available near the museum. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for specific parking instructions and any associated fees.
If you're driving, use GPS navigation to 201 Chapin St, South Bend, IN 46601. The museum is centrally located and accessible via major roads in South Bend.
Yes, the museum is located near other South Bend attractions like the University of Notre Dame and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. You can also enjoy a walk along the Old East Race.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in South Bend and can drop you off directly at the museum's entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Studebaker National Museum must be purchased on-site at the museum. Online ticket purchasing is not available.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and on Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm.
Admission prices are typically available at the ticket counter upon arrival. It's best to check the museum's official website or call ahead for the most current pricing information.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or military personnel. Inquire at the ticket counter when purchasing your admission.
Yes, group visits are welcome. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to arrange group tours and discuss any special group rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum's three floors of exhibits. If you're a dedicated car enthusiast, you might want to allocate a bit more time.
Don't miss the historical carriages, including the one Lincoln rode to Ford's Theatre, and the impressive collection of Studebaker automobiles spanning decades of production.
Yes, the museum offers interactive displays that are engaging for children, making it a great family outing.
Restrooms and other visitor facilities are available within the museum for your convenience.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there is a small gift shop that may offer snacks or beverages.
South Bend offers a variety of dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants within a short drive or walk from the museum.
It's generally recommended not to bring outside food and drinks into museum exhibits. Please check the museum's policy upon arrival.
Yes, South Bend has many family-friendly restaurants. Ask museum staff for recommendations or explore options in the downtown area.
South Bend offers a diverse culinary scene, including American comfort food, international flavors, and local specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally permitted inside the museum. However, always check for any posted signs regarding flash photography or professional shoots.
The beautifully restored Studebaker cars, the historic carriages, and the exterior architecture of the museum offer excellent photo opportunities.
Tripod usage might be restricted to ensure the safety of exhibits and the flow of visitors. It's best to inquire at the information desk.
The 1941 Champion Coupe Delivery is a favorite for many visitors. The presidential carriages also make for striking and historically significant photos.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, making for better photographic conditions.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit