LeMay America's Car Museum
Explore a vast collection of over 300 vintage and modern vehicles, celebrating automotive history and innovation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
LeMay America's Car Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast collection of over 300 vintage and modern vehicles, celebrating automotive history and innovation.
"It’s amazing how many vehicles and how big this Location is. Staff is friendly."
Allocate ample time
You'll need 4+ hours to see everything; don't rush this amazing collection!
Check for special exhibits
JDM cars and supercar shows are popular draws.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shinka: Japanese Automotive Exhibit
Top Floor
Explore a stunning collection of JDM legends and cutting-edge Japanese automotive design.
The Birth of the American Supercar
Special Exhibition Space
Trace a century of American speed, style, and performance in this iconic display.
Harold LeMay's Vast Collection
All Floors
Marvel at over 300 foreign and domestic vehicles from one of the world's largest private car collections.
Vintage & Classic Cars
Various Exhibits
See beautifully preserved Duesenbergs, classic luxury cars, and automotive history.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Plan for Plenty of Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate ample time
You'll need 4+ hours to see everything; don't rush this amazing collection!
Check for special exhibits
JDM cars and supercar shows are popular draws.
Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple levels. :athletic_shoe:
Consider a membership
Great value if you plan to visit multiple museums in the area. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate ample time
You'll need 4+ hours to see everything; don't rush this amazing collection!
Check for special exhibits
JDM cars and supercar shows are popular draws.
Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple levels. :athletic_shoe:
Consider a membership
Great value if you plan to visit multiple museums in the area. [^Review]
QR codes for details
Scan for in-depth info on vehicles and their history. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise LeMay - America's Car Museum for its immense collection and well-maintained vehicles, making it a must-visit for car lovers. The museum offers a comprehensive look at automotive history, with special exhibits adding unique appeal. While some note the vastness requires significant time, the friendly staff and engaging displays ensure a memorable experience for all ages.
"Unique Fashion Event at a Stunning Venue 🛍️🛍️
Visited LeMay - America’s Car Museum for the Fashion District event on August 16–17, and it was absolutely worth it! The venue is incredible surrounded by stunning luxury cars that made the whole experience even more special.
The event had designer fashion booths, great networking opportunities, and even tasty sandwiches to enjoy while exploring. It was the perfect mix of fashion, food, and fantastic cars a truly memorable experience.
Highly recommend this venue not only for car enthusiasts but also as a unique spot for hosting fashion shows, exhibitions, and other creative events!"
Anita purandare
"It’s amazing how many vehicles and how big this Location is. Staff is friendly. We ended up getting the yearly membership as it included the art museum and another museum. We will definitely be back even though we spent an hour and a half there we felt like we needed to go back and take a look again as there’s just so much to see.
It’s amazing to see the selection of vehicles they have and what great shape they’re in
This is a one-of-a-kind place and I’m surprised it took us that long to finally make a trip to this location .
Kids of all ages loved it and there’s also a bike there from the 1800s .
We did not get to go and try the café as it was closed on Labor Day.
Next time we go, we will stop here and then stop at the glass museum in Tacoma .
Time well spent and will be back again."
Ruby Nagra-Basi
"A real delight for car lovers. I loved it. I thought I would be able to explore it in a short time, but it took me 4 hours. All the floors were full of cars of all kinds. There were even entertainment options for children. It was worth it. I recommend it."
Gustavo Gonzalez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Located in Tacoma, WA, the museum is accessible by car. Parking is available on-site.
While specific routes vary, Tacoma has public transit options. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The museum offers on-site parking for visitors.
Yes, the museum is designed to be accessible, with elevators and seating available on each level. Walkers or wheelchairs are recommended for those with limited mobility. [^Review]
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip from Seattle, especially on hot days as it's fully air-conditioned.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but general admission is around $22. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially for special exhibits, to save time and guarantee entry.
While specific free days are not widely advertised, keeping an eye on their events page or social media might reveal special promotions. Memberships can also offer significant savings. [^Review]
The museum is typically open Thursdays through Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's advisable to confirm hours on their official website before your visit.
The museum has a cafe, though it may have limited hours or be closed on certain holidays. [^Review]
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
It's renowned for its vast collection of over 300 vehicles, including JDM legends, classic American cars, and unique automotive history.
Most visitors spend at least 4 hours, and some up to 4 hours, due to the sheer size and depth of the collection. [^Review]
Yes, the museum frequently hosts rotating special exhibits, such as the popular Shinka exhibit featuring Japanese domestic market (JDM) cars.
Yes, there's a 'Kid Zone' and plenty of visually engaging exhibits that appeal to all ages. [^Review]
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, and many visitors capture stunning shots of the diverse car collection.
📸 📸 Photography
The Shinka exhibit and the areas with classic luxury cars offer fantastic photo opportunities. The lighting can be excellent throughout the museum.
Yes, personal photography is permitted, allowing you to capture the incredible automotive displays.
While personal photos are fine, professional photography or commercial use may require special permission. Always check with museum staff if unsure.
From sleek JDM sports cars to elegant vintage luxury vehicles, there's a wide variety for diverse photography styles.
It's best to avoid flash photography to protect the vehicles and not disturb other visitors. Check for any posted signs regarding flash use.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the busiest times. The museum's air-conditioned environment also makes it an ideal escape on warmer days.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Collectors
[^Review] The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse automotive history, from rare JDM legends to iconic American classics and elegant luxury marques, provides an unparalleled viewing experience. [^Review]Pay close attention to the special exhibits, which often highlight niche automotive genres or significant historical periods. The detailed information provided, including QR codes for deeper dives, caters to those who want to understand the engineering and stories behind each vehicle. [^Review] Consider an annual membership if you plan to visit frequently, as it often includes access to other local museums and offers great value. [^Review]
📸 Photography Buffs
to the timeless elegance of vintage luxury vehicles, provides endless opportunities for stunning shots. The museum's layout and the thoughtful curation of exhibits often create dramatic backdrops. While personal photography is encouraged, remember to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, which can damage delicate finishes and disrupt the viewing experience. [^Review] The special exhibits, in particular, often feature unique and visually striking vehicles that are perfect for capturing memorable images.
Don't forget to explore all levels of the museum, as each offers distinct photographic possibilities. [^Review]Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Harold LeMay
His passion for automobiles and his desire to share them with the public led to the creation of this world-class museum. The museum campus itself is expansive, sitting on 8 acres and featuring a 4-story building dedicated to showcasing this incredible automotive heritage. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of vehicles, from early automobiles and classic American muscle cars to unique foreign makes and modern marvels. The sheer volume and variety of the collection mean that exhibits are constantly rotating, ensuring there's always something new to discover on repeat visits. [^Review]
The museum doesn't just display cars; it tells stories. Through detailed exhibits and informative plaques, guests can learn about the history, engineering, and cultural impact of these iconic machines. Special exhibits, like the popular Shinka showcase of Japanese domestic market (JDM) cars, highlight specific eras or automotive cultures, drawing enthusiasts from far and wide.
Exploring Special Exhibits
This exhibit is a must-see for fans of Japanese automotive culture.Another notable exhibition is 'The Birth of the American Supercar,' which delves into the history of American high-performance vehicles, showcasing a century of speed, style, and innovation.
These temporary exhibits often feature rare and highly sought-after vehicles, making them a compelling reason for repeat visits. [^Review]Attending during a special exhibit can mean larger crowds, but the unique opportunity to see these specific collections often outweighs the increased visitor numbers. It's always recommended to check the museum's official website for current and upcoming special exhibitions to plan your visit accordingly.
More Than Just Cars: Events and Experiences
to concerts and community gatherings, the museum offers diverse experiences. These events provide a unique backdrop for celebrations and gatherings, leveraging the stunning collection of cars as an unparalleled ambiance. Visitors have praised the museum as an incredible venue for hosting such occasions, noting how the luxury vehicles enhance the overall experience. [^Review]
For those looking for an engaging activity beyond just viewing cars, checking the museum's events calendar is highly recommended. It offers a chance to experience the museum in a different light and participate in unique cultural happenings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit