Top 11 Car Museums in Michigan You Must Visit

Michigan is the core of America's automotive history and home to some of the country’s most amazing car museums. In fact, Michigan has the highest number of car museums in the United States (16). California and North Carolina are in second place, with each having 15 automobile museums. These museums not only preserve rich automotive history but also give you the opportunity to explore groundbreaking innovations and a variety of cars that have dominated different eras. In car museums in Michigan, all types of classic cars are displayed along with their stories of evolution. 

These include classic cars, antique cars, vintage cars, sports cars, and muscle cars. Therefore, by visiting these Michigan automotive museums every car person can rewire themselves with the stories behind iconic brands. If you’re a caraholic and simply want to see some rare and beautifully restored vehicles, this place won’t disappoint you. Because Michigan’s car museums really have something for everyone.

In this article, we’ve made a list of 11 automobile museums in Michigan state. In these museums, you will have a unique experience that highlights the state's deep connection with the automotive industry. If you’re passionate about cars, these museums are undoubtedly worth the visit.

11 Popular Car Museums in Michigan Every Car Enthusiast Must Visit

Michigan is often called the “Motor City”. It’s a sanctuary for car lovers. You can visit the Gilmore Car Museum, which is North America's largest automotive museum. Surprisingly, we have 16 fantastic car museums in Michigan, and we've picked 11 to cover in this article.

Here is a list of the best car museums in Michigan every car enthusiast must visit:

1. Gilmore Car Museum, Michigan
2. The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
3. Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum
4. R.E. Olds Transportation Museum
5. Stahls Auto Museum
6. Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum
7. Automotive Hall of Fame
8. Wills Sainte Claire Museum
9. Roush Automotive Collection
10. Pontiac Transportation Museum in Michigan
11. Museum of Off-Road Adventure (The MORA)

1. Gilmore Car Museum in Michigan

The Gilmore Car Museum is located in the scenic countryside of Hickory Corners, Southwestern Michigan. It’s about halfway between Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. So, you can make it here easily if you’re traveling within Michigan. Also, it’s the largest car museum in North America and it spans over 90 acres of land, which will perhaps surprise you as well.

This automotive museum was established and opened to the public on July 31, 1966, by Donald S. Gilmore, a successful businessman and car enthusiast. Gilmore began collecting vintage automobiles in the early 1960s and his collection grew fast. Some of his collections include a 1927 Ford Model T, a 1913 Rolls Royce, and a 1920 Pierce-Arrow. To preserve and showcase these cars, he and his wife, Genevieve, purchased a 90-acre farm in Hickory Corners. The first structure to be restored on the property was a historic red barn. This barn now serves as a centerpiece of the museum. However, over the years, the museum has expanded significantly.

This Gilmore Car Museum in Michigan boasts an impressive collection of over 400 vehicles. This includes classic cars, muscle cars, vintage motorcycles, and even a collection of pedal cars. Also, you can experience the rich automotive history in this place, from early horseless carriages to more modern classics.

Some noteworthy museums include:

• Classic Car Club of America
• Pierce-Arrow Museum
• The Cadilac-LaSalle Clun Museum
• Lincoln Motor Car Heritage Museum
• the Model A Ford Museum

The Lincoln, Model A, and Cadillac museums are all housed in recreated car dealerships spanning from 1928 to 1948. Moreover, there are unique collections like the Hood Ornament Collection and the Franklin Collection.

When it comes to displaying all these collections, Gilmore Museum has over 190,000 square feet of exhibit space spread across several historic barns and buildings. Besides, the extensive campus includes several partner museums, a restored 1941 diner, and a functioning re-creation of a 1930s Shell gas station which adds a sort of nostalgic atmosphere.

The Gilmore Car Museum is known for its frequent car shows, swap meets, and special events throughout the year. Some popular events include the Vintage Motorcycle Weekend, the Muscle Car Meet, and the annual Car Show Spectacular. These events often draw large crowds and feature live entertainment, food vendors, and the opportunity to see rare vehicles in action.

Opening Hours and Ticket Price:

From December to March, the museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Visit Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm from April to March. It's recommended to check their website for any seasonal changes. Admission prices are quite reasonable. The adult ticket is priced around $20, seniors (ages 65 and older) at $16, youth ages (11-17) at $12, and children 10 and under free. Discounts are also available for groups and military personnel. They can buy a ticket for $18. If you’re particularly interested in the car show, download their car show schedule for 2024.

2. The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is one of the best car museums in Michigan. It’s located in Dearborn, Metro Detroit. The Henry Ford Museum was founded by Henry Ford himself on October 21, 1929. Originally known as the Edison Institute, because the museum was created as a tribute to his friend Thomas Edison and other great American inventors.

Henry Ford was deeply passionate about preserving the history of American innovations. He wanted to create a space where future generations could learn about and be inspired by the past. And to reflect on his dream, the Henry Ford Museum opened to the public in 1933 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most significant collections of historical artifacts in the United States.

In fact, the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is part of a larger complex known as The Henry Ford. This complex includes Greenfield Village, The Ford Rouge Factory Tour, and the Benson Ford Research Center. The entire complex covers 250 acres and the museum itself spans over 523,000 square feet.

To stage the remarkable evolution of the American automobile industry and culture, this automotive museum in Michigan become the sanctuary for many car enthusiasts. Some of the most notable collections of this Detroit Historical Museum include:

• Transportation: This collection allows you to look at the development of transportation in America. In this space, you can see some iconic vehicles such as the Rosa Parks Bus, the Wright Brothers’ Bicycle Shop, the 1909 Model T Ford, and the 1965 Ford Mustang.
• Innovation and Industry: In this exhibit, you can explore the history of American manufacturing and technological innovation. It includes notable artifacts like Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park laboratory and a full-scale replica of the first assembly line.
• Presidential Vehicle: The museum houses a collection of presidential limousines, including the car in which President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.
• American Democracy and Culture: This collection explores the social and cultural history of the United States. It features artifacts such as the Lincoln Chair from Ford’s Theatre and the Declaration of Independence.
• Made in America: This part of the museum focuses on the products and technologies that have been created/produced in the United States.

Apart from displaying a variety of collections and historical artifacts, The Henry Ford Museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions and events that highlight different aspects of American history and innovations. However, annual events, particularly, Maker Faire Detroit and Motor Muster draw large crowds.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovations is open seven days a week, usually from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. However, you should check the thehenryford.org website for any changes to hours or special holiday schedules.

Ticket Prices are as follows:

Note that the prices are subject to change. Also, if you purchase online a 9.00 USD parking fee will be added during the checkout process. Before you plan to visit the Henry Ford Museum, check out their opening hours and ticket prices online.

3. Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum 

The Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum in Michigan, also known as Ypsilanti Heritage Museum, is a fascinating place for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This museum is located at 100 East Cross Street in Ypsilanti’s historic Depot Town district. This area itself is well-known for its charming, vintage atmosphere.

So, Ypsilanti Auto Museum naturally fits in here with its rare collections like classic cars and automotive heritage. It is dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich automotive history of the area, particularly its connection to the Hudson Motor Car Company and other notable auto manufacturers.

The Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum was established in 1995, housed in the last remaining Hudson dealership in the world. The building itself has a rich history, originally opening as the Miller Motors dealership in 1927. Over the years, it sold various car brands, including Hudson, Essex, and Kaiser-Frazer which make it a significant site in automotive history.

In the end, the museum was formed by a group of passionate individuals including Jr and Peter B. Fletcher. They purchased Miller Motors from Jack Miller. They later hired Jack Miller as a curator, and he held the position until his retirement in 2013.

When it comes to notable collections, Ypsilanti Car Museum is home to an impressive collection of classic cars, memorabilia, and artifacts related to the automobile industry. Here are some of the most notable collections you can experience at Ypsilanti Auto Museum:

• Hudson Motor Cars: Extensive collection of Hudson vehicles including a 1951 Hudson Hornet and a 1933 Hudson Terraplane. These cars played a pivotal role in the early days of American auto racing.
• Kaiser-Frazer Vehicles: The museum also features several Kaiser-Frazer cars. These vehicles highlight the innovative designs and engineering that came out of the Willow Run plant in nearby Ypsilanti.
• Corvair Collections: Another highlight is the museum’s collection of Chevrolet Corvairs, a car model known for its unique engineering and design during the 1960s.

Apart from regular events, this old car museum in Michigan also exhibits various shows throughout the year including the Orphan Car Show, Ypsilanti Heritage Festival, and Vintage Car Displays. These shows make this museum worth stopping by.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

For history buffs, The Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum is generally open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. However, you should check their website or call ahead, as hours can vary seasonally.

Ticket prices are as follows:

• Adults (12+): $5
• Children (Under 12): Free

Note: Parking is available at Ypsilanti Car Museum and it’s free of cost for the visitors.

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4. R.E. Olds Transportation Museum (REOTM)

Another captivating destination for anyone interested in the history of automobiles and transportation in America is the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum. It’s located at 240 Museum Drive in Lansing, Michigan, along the scenic Grand River. The museum preserves the legacy of Ransom Eli Olds, the founder of Oldsmobile and a pioneering figure in the automotive industry.

The museum was established and opened to the public on May 18, 1981. This 12,000-square-foot facility museum’s mission is to celebrate Lansing’s rich automotive heritage, particularly the contributions of Ransom Eli Olds. Olds’ contributions in the early 20th-century American auto industry helped shape the development of motor vehicles.

The museum boasts an amazing collection of over 60 vehicles including the early steam-powered cars to modern vehicles. Some of the most notable collections include:

• The Oldsmobile Collection: Features a variety of Oldsmobile vehicles and showcases the evolution of the brand from its beginning in the late 1800s to its final models in the early 2000s. Highlights include the 1897 Oldsmobile Steam Carriage, one of the earliest cars built by Ransom Olds, and a rare and luxurious convertible 1953 Oldsmobile Fiesta.
• Rare Automobiles: The museum also houses some unique and rare cars including a 1905 REO Runabout, one of the first cars produced by the REO Motor Car Company.
• Historical Artifacts: Apart from cars, the museum also features a collection of automotive memorabilia, including vintage advertisements, signs, and parts as well as displays dedicated to the history of Lansing’s automotive industry.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

The REOTM Museum hosts several special events including classic car shows, educational programs, and community events. For regular displays, the museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM Tuesday to Saturday, and from 12:00 PM to 5 PM on Sundays. It’s closed on Mondays and major holidays.

Ticket Prices are as follows:

• Teenage (12-18): $7
• Adults (18-64): $10
• Seniors (65+): $7
• Groups: $7
• Military/Veterans: $7
• Children Under 12: Free

5. Stahls Auto Museum 

Stahls Auto Museum, located at 56516 North Bay Drive, Chesterfield, Michigan, can take you back to a time when cars were not the only means of traveling from point A to B. The museum offers a remarkable experience if you’re someone who appreciates the beauty and history of automobiles.

Stahl’s Automotive Collection was established by Detroit native Ted Stahl, a passionate collection of vintage cars. This 45,000-square-foot museum was opened to the public in 2005. Ted’s goal was to collect, preserve, and showcase the classic and vintage vehicles that represent the golden age of automotive design and innovation.

Stahls Museum offers its visitors over 90 impressive vehicle collections such as Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac. Also, the cars that were built by Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, and Ford. The collections include: 

• Duesenberg Model
• De Dion-Bouton Tricycle and Ford Model A Roadster Deluxe (Oldest car in the collection)
• 1930 Cadilac V-16
• Ford Model T

Besides, Stahls hosts special events like open house nights where visitors can see the cars up close and sometimes even hear them run. The museum also participates in classic car shows and charity events.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

Stahl’s Automotive Collection is open to the public on Tuesdays from 1 PM to 4 PM and on the first Saturday of each month from 11 AM to 4 PM. Entry is free, but donations are welcomed and encouraged.

6. Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum 

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum is situated at 461 Piquette Avenue, Detroit, Michigan. This 355,000 square feet museum is one of the largest auto museums in Michigan and the birthplace of the iconic Ford Model T. This huge size of this museum includes the original factory floors where some of the most important cars in history were assembled.

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant in Michigan was established in 1904 by the Ford Motor Company. It was the first factory owned by Ford and played a key role in the development of the Model T, which revolutionized the automobile industry. The plant becomes a museum in the 2000s to preserve its rich automobile history for future generations.

The museum’s collections include several original Model T vehicles, as well as other early Ford models like the Model N and Model S. The exhibits also display vintage tools, factory equipment, and production processes. Visitors to the Ford Piquette Museum in Detroit can see the actual office used by Henry Ford and the experimental room where the first Model T was developed.

Apart from showcasing cars from past eras, the museum authority also hosts various special events including historical lectures, car shows, and guided tours. The museum also participates in Detroit’s annual Concours d’Elegence event to stage some of its prized vehicles.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

The museum is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission prices are very reasonable: $18 for adults, $10 for students, $15 for seniors (65+) and groups, and free for children. Before you plan to visit, you should check their website for updated ticket prices and opening hours.

7. Automotive Hall of Fame

The Automotive Hall of Fame Museum is located at 21400 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn, Michigan. It is close to the famous Henry Ford Museum. This museum celebrates those figures who have made significant contributions to the automotive industry.

Established in 1939, originally located in New York but moved to Dearborn in 1997. This 25,000-square-foot museum houses over 800 inductees. These include inventors, engineers, and business leaders. Visitors can explore displays about Henry Ford, Karl Benz, and many others who shaped the automotive world. The museum also showcases historical documents, artifacts, and interactive displays that highlight key moments in automotive history.

Besides, the museum hosts special events like induction ceremonies, where new members are honored, and lectures from industry experts. It also organizes car shows and exhibits that focus on specific themes such as the evolution of car design.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission costs are $10 for adults, $6 for seniors (62+) and students (13-18), and $4 for youths (5-12). And the children under the age of 5 enter for free. Group discounts are also available. You can visit their website to get more information about opening hours and ticket prices.

8. Wills Sainte Claire Museum 

The Will St. Clair Museum is a small community-driven museum, located at 2408 Wills Street, Marysville, Michigan. This small car museum in Michigan is dedicated to the legacy of C. Harold Wills and the Wills Sainte Claire automobile, which he designed and produced in the early 1920s.

Harold Wills was an engineer who played a significant role in the development of the Ford Model T. After leaving Ford, Wills founded Wills Sainte Claire Automotive Company in Marysville in 1921. The mission of creating this museum was to preserve and share the history of this innovative yet short-lived automobile company.

This museum houses several restored Wills Sainte Claire vehicles which are known for their advanced engineering and stylish designs including a V8 engine that was ahead of its time. It also features historical documents, artifacts, and photographs related to the Wills Sainte Claire brand and its founder. Besides, the museum organizes different shows throughout the year including car shows and educational programs.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

The museum is open to visitors on the second Sunday of every month from 1 PM to 5 PM, and also on the fourth Sunday of June, July, and August from 1 PM to 5 PM. The admission fee is $10 per person and the entry fee for children is free. However, you better call ahead to tour the museum or schedule an appointment.

9. Roush Automotive Collection

If you love racing cars, this is one of the amazing museums in Michigan for you to visit. The Roush Automotive Collection is situated at Market Street, Livonia, Michigan. It’s quite a large facility that showcases a variety of vehicles and memorabilia related to Roush’s contributions to the automotive world. In fact, the museum was created to celebrate the legacy of Jack Roush, a legend in Motorsports and automotive engineering.

The 30,000 square feet car museum in MI housed over 110 vehicles, and various artifacts related to Jack Roush and his work in NASCAR. In particular, the museum offers a glimpse into the history of Roush’s impact on racing and car development.

Notable Collections Include:

• Classic Cars
• NASCAR Race Cars
• High Performance Vehicles
• Roush-engineered Vehicles
• Engines, Trophies, and Other Racing Memorabilia.

Besides, the museum hosts events like open houses, car shows, and charity events throughout the year. These events attract many fans and car enthusiasts within the community. They can get up close with the cars and learn more about the history behind them.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

The Roush Automotive Collection Museum is generally open to the public on weekdays from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. However, you can check out their website for more information regarding opening hours, and special events. The entry fee to Roush Automotive Museum is free and all tours are self-led. Photography is allowed, so you better not forget to bring your camera.

10. Pontiac Transportation Museum in Michigan

The Pontiac brand as well as the city itself celebrates the 170 years of automobile history through the Pontiac Transportation Museum in Michigan. The community in Southeast Michigan is proud of its rich automobile heritage. This is reflected in how they have been preserving the history of automobiles in their cities. As the name suggests, the Pontiac Transportation Museum is located in Pontiac, Michigan, in a historic building that has been repurposed to house the collection. The museum is dedicated to telling the story of how Pontiac cars became an iconic part of American culture.

The museum mostly features a wide variety of Pontiac vehicles, both earliest models and modern classics. It also includes memorabilia, advertisements, and historical documents related to the brand. Special attention is given to Pontiac City and its role in the development of these vehicles.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

The museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and from 12 PM to 5 PM on Sunday. Regular admission costs $10, seniors aged 65 or older pay $8, children aged 5 to 13 pay $5, and entry is free for children under 5. Please visit the Pontiac Transportation Museum's official website for the most current information on opening hours and admission fees.

11. Museum of Off-Road Adventure (The MORA)

The Museum of Off-Road Adventure (MORA) is situated in Clay Township, Michigan, not far from Lake St. Clair. The museum occupies a spacious facility to showcase offroad vehicles and their history. It also has a gift shop and a small café for visitors.

The main goal of establishing this museum was to educate and celebrate the history and culture of off-road highway adventure vehicles. In a broader aspect, the museum aims to educate visitors about the evolution of these vehicles and their impact on outdoor exploration and recreation.

Notable collections of The MORA include offroad vehicles such as Jeeps, ATVs, dirt bikes, and military vehicles. It also hosts special events like off-road vehicle shows, demonstrations, and educational workshops.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:

According to the official website of the MORA, the museum is open from 11 AM to 4 PM on the first and third Saturday of the month. However, if anyone is interested in private tours, the museum authorities encourage them to call directly. The ticket price isn’t mentioned but it is either free or reasonably low and they welcome donations.

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Read More: How to Sell a Car in Michigan?

Best Car Museums in Michigan: The Bottom Line 

Michigan is home to some of the best car museums in the country. From the Gilmore Car Museum to the Henry Ford Museum, they attract tourists from all over the world. The most popular car museums in Michigan state also include the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum, R.E. Olds Transportation Museum, Stahls Auto Museum, and Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum. If you’re a car enthusiast or just curious to explore cars from different eras, visiting Michigan’s auto museums and its automotive heritage will certainly satisfy your thirst.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What Is the largest Car Museums in the United States?

The largest car museum in America is the Gilmore Car Museum located in Hickory Corners, Michigan. This 90-acre expansive museum houses over 400 classic and vintage vehicles. It’s well known across the nation due to its extensive collection and hosts many special exhibitions, events, and activities throughout the year.

Where is the Biggest Car Show in Michigan? 

The biggest car show in Michigan is the Detroit Woodward Dream Cruise. Held annually in the northern suburbs of Detroit. This event takes place every year on the third Saturday in August. The cruise runs along Woodward Avenue, a historic route that stretches from Ferndale to Pontiac.

What Are the Must-Visit Car Museums in Michigan? 

In Michigan state, there are several iconic car museums, including the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, and the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum.

What Can I Expect to See at the Gilmore Car Museum?

The Gilmore Car Museums Features more than 400 old classic cars and motorcycles, including special exhibits such as the Corvette Collection and Vintage vehicles from different eras. The museum also hosts special events like vintage car rides and the Winter Wonderland Holiday Experience.

What Are the Opening Hours and Ticket Prices for the Henry Ford Museum?

The Henry Ford Museum typically opens daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Ticket prices can vary seasonally. Usually, the general admission for adults costs around $36. Discounts are available for seniors, children, and members.

What Is the Difference Between Classic Cars, Antique Cars, Vintage Cars, and Muscle Cars?

Classic cars are commonly 20 to 40 years old and hold historical significance. Antique cars are over 45 years old, and passionate car collectors preserve them for their rarity. Vintage cars were manufactured between 1919 and 1930. Muscle cars, on the other hand, are high-performance vehicles, usually American, built mainly in the 1960s and 1970s, known for their powerful engines and sporty design.