Best Car Museums in Florida

Best Car Museums in Florida

ByKevin Brighton

Florida is home to some of the best car museums in the country. From classic cars to muscle cars, there’s something for everyone.

One of the top car museums in Florida is the Sarasota Classic Car Museum. Located near New College in Sarasota, this museum features over 75 vintage cars and antique vehicles. You’ll find everything from rare cars to classic muscle cars, including a 1926 Ford Model T and a 1967 Shelby GT350. With its impressive collection and knowledgeable staff, this museum is a must-visit for any car lover.

Another must-see car museum in Florida is the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of the automobile and features a collection of cars from the 1920s to the 1960s. You’ll find everything from classic cars to vintage motorcycles, as well as exhibits on the history of the automobile. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, this museum is definitely worth a visit.

History of Car Museums in Florida

Florida has a long history of car culture and has been home to some of the best automotive museums in the United States. Car museums in Florida have been around since the early 1900s and have been an important part of the local culture and tourism industry.

The first car museum in Florida was the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, which was established in 1953. The museum was founded by a local car enthusiast named Bob Ressler, who had a passion for classic cars. The museum was originally located in downtown Sarasota and had a small collection of classic cars.

In the 1980s, car museums in Florida began to evolve and started to include more interactive exhibits and displays. The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, which opened in 1986, was one of the first museums to incorporate interactive exhibits and displays.

Today, car museums in Florida offer a wide range of exhibits and displays, including interactive exhibits, virtual reality experiences, and hands-on activities. Many museums also have workshops and classes for visitors to learn more about the history of cars and how they work.

Many car museums in Florida are located in popular tourist destinations, such as Orlando and St. Augustine. They have become must-see attractions for visitors to these areas and have helped to boost the local economy.

Top Car Museums in Florida

Orlando Auto Museum

If you are a car enthusiast, you will definitely enjoy visiting the Orlando Auto Museum. The museum is located in Dezerland Park and houses over 2,000 vehicles that represent a staggering $200 million dollar value. The museum is one of the world’s most captivating collections and boasts an impressive array of vintage, antique, and exotic cars.

The Orlando Auto Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves classic cars. The museum’s collection includes a wide range of vehicles, from rare and exotic sports cars to vintage classics. You will find cars from all over the world, including Europe, Asia, and the United States.

One of the most impressive things about the Orlando Auto Museum is the sheer size of the collection. The museum’s collection is so large that it is divided into several different sections, each with its own unique theme. Some of the museum’s most popular sections include the Cars of the Stars exhibit, which features cars that were owned by famous celebrities, and the Cars of the Future exhibit, which showcases some of the most innovative and cutting-edge automobiles.

  • Address: 8451 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 10am-6pm
  • Price: $20 per adult, $15 per child (ages 5-12), free for children under 5
  • Website: https://www.orlandoautomuseum.com/

Tampa Bay Automobile Museum

Tampa Bay Automobile Museum features a unique collection of vintage cars and vehicles that demonstrate special creativity and imagination in their history and engineering. The museum is a tribute to creativity and imagination, showcasing vintage cars that are more than just a means of transportation.

The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum is home to a collection of over 60 vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. The vehicles on display at the museum are from the 1920s to the 1960s, and they represent a wide range of styles and designs. The museum has a unique collection of cars, including some rare and unusual vehicles that you won’t find anywhere else. Some of the notable vehicles on display include a 1929 Rolls Royce Phantom, a 1930 Bugatti Type 46, and a 1952 Lancia Aurelia B20 GT.

  • Address: 3301 Gateway Centre Blvd, Pinellas Park, FL 33782
  • Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Price: Adults – $12, Children (12 and under) – $8
  • Website: https://www.tbauto.org/

Tallahassee Automobile Museum

The Tallahassee Automobile Museum has one of the largest collections of cars in the nation, with over 160 cars on display. The museum also has a wide range of other exhibits, including vintage boats, motorcycles, and even a Batmobile.

One of the unique features of the Tallahassee Automobile Museum is that it doesn’t just focus on cars. The museum has a large collection of Americana, including antique toys, gas pumps, and even a replica of a 1920s general store. This makes it a great destination for history buffs and families with children.

The museum is housed in a 100,000 square foot facility, so there’s plenty of space to explore. The building itself is also a work of art, with mirrored walls that reflect the exhibits and give the space a futuristic feel.

  • Address: 6800 Mahan Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32308
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Price: Adults: $17.50, Seniors (65+): $15.50, Military: $15.50, Children (5-17): $7.50, Children (under 5): Free
  • Website: https://tacm.com/

Dauer Museum of Classic Cars

Dauer Museum of Classic Cars in Sunrise, Florida has an impressive collection of 55 classic cars, all in pristine condition as if they just rolled off the showroom floor. The museum focuses on that era of history when American cars were considered the best in the world.

The Dauer Museum of Classic Cars is a great place to learn about the history of classic cars and see some of the most iconic models up close. The museum has a variety of American and European cars on display, including classics from the 1920s, 30s, and 40s. You’ll also find some rare and unique models that you won’t see anywhere else.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of memorabilia on display. You’ll find vintage gas pumps, signs, and other automobile-related items that will take you back in time. The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and other items related to classic cars.

  • Address: 10801 NW 50th St, Sunrise, FL 33351
  • Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Closed on Sundays
  • Price: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and military, $7 for children aged 5-12, free for children under 5
  • Website: https://dauercars.com/

Sarasota Classic Car Museum

The Sarasota Classic Car Museum is a must-visit destination. The museum is recognized as the second oldest continuously operating antique car museum in the nation, with over 100 antique, classic, vintage, collectible, and rare cars on display.

As you stroll through the museum, you’ll find a fascinating collection of cars from the early 1900s to modern-day classics. Some of the highlights include John Lennon’s Mercedes-Benz, a 1927 Ford Model T, and a 1936 Duesenberg.

The museum also has a collection of antique motorcycles, including a 1916 Harley-Davidson and a 1930 Indian. In addition, there’s a special exhibit dedicated to the history of the Corvette, featuring some of the rarest and most iconic models.

  • Address: 5500 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
  • Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9am-6pm
  • Price: Adults: $14.95, Seniors (65+): $12.95, Children (6-17): $9.95, Children under 6: Free
  • Website: https://www.sarasotacarmuseum.org/

Studebaker National Museum (St. Augustine)

If you’re interested in the history of one of the world’s foremost automotive makers, you should visit the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend, Indiana. The museum offers a fascinating look at Studebaker’s contributions to the automobile industry, including the company’s role in the development of the automobile in the early 20th century.

The Studebaker National Museum features over 120 vehicles, including cars, trucks, and military vehicles, as well as exhibits on the company’s history and contributions to the industry. The collection includes iconic Studebaker models such as the Avanti, Hawk, and Lark, as well as rare and unique vehicles like the 1904 Studebaker Electric, the 1928 President Eight, and the 1963 Avanti R2.

In addition to the vehicles on display, the museum also features exhibits on Studebaker’s history, including the company’s early years as a wagon manufacturer, its contributions to the war effort during World War II, and its eventual decline in the 1960s. The museum also offers educational programs and events throughout the year.

  • Address: 201 S Chapin St, South Bend, IN 46601, United States
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
  • Price: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, $6 for children ages 6 to 18
  • Website: https://www.studebakermuseum.org/

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

If you’re a fan of drag racing, the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala is a must-visit destination. The museum is home to a vast collection of historic race cars, engines, and memorabilia, showcasing the evolution of the sport and the contributions of its greatest drivers.

The museum is conveniently located just off Interstate 75, making it an easy stop for travelers passing through the area. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a friendly staff who are passionate about the museum and its history.

Inside, you’ll find a wide range of exhibits, including a replica of Garlits’ first dragster, the Swamp Rat I, as well as a collection of cars that have set world records and won national championships. There are also displays of rare engines, vintage photographs, and other artifacts that help tell the story of the sport.

One of the highlights of the museum is the outdoor “Garlits Collection,” which features a rotating selection of cars from Garlits’ personal collection. These cars are often seen at events across the country, but at the museum, you can get up close and personal with them.

  • Address: 13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 am – 5 pm, Sunday 10 am – 5 pm
  • Price: Adults $20, Seniors (65+) $18, Students (with ID) $10, Children (5-12) $5, Children under 5 free
  • Website: https://garlits.com/

Central Florida Auto Museum (DeLand)

Central Florida Auto Museum in DeLand is home to a unique collection of cars, ranging from the early 1900s to the 1980s. The museum is located in an old brick factory building, which gives it a unique industrial feel.

Inside the museum, you’ll find a wide variety of cars, including classic muscle cars, vintage race cars, and even a few rare European models. The museum also has a collection of antique gas pumps, signs, and other memorabilia from the golden age of motoring.

One of the highlights of the Central Florida Auto Museum is the chance to see some of the rarest cars in the world. For example, the museum has a 1928 Bugatti Type 35B, which is considered one of the most beautiful and valuable cars ever made. The museum also has a 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged, which is one of the most iconic cars of the Art Deco era.

Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum (Fort Lauderdale)

The Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum is a reproduction of a Packard showroom from the 1920s and boasts the largest collection of Packard cars and historical memorabilia from 1900 and on. On display, you will find 22 Packard motor cars from the 1900s to the 1940s, all in full working order.

The museum is spread over 30,000 square feet and offers something that will appeal to everyone. The industrial age’s greatest achievements are showcased in this museum, and you can indulge in the luxury of the 1920s to the 1950s. Every model housed in the museum is a vision of elegance and is the very definition of luxury.

The Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum is perfect for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum’s knowledgeable staff is always ready to answer any questions you may have and provide interesting insights into the cars’ history and significance.

  • Address: 1527 SW 1st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
  • Hours: Open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Closed on Sundays.
  • Price: Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children aged 6-12, and free for children under 6.
  • Website: Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum

Cassadaga Classic Car Museum (Cassadaga):

Located in the town of Cassadaga, Cassadaga Classic Car Museum features a collection of classic cars from the 1920s to the 1970s. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once a hotel, and the cars are displayed throughout the various rooms.

As you walk through the museum, you’ll see classic cars from a variety of manufacturers, including Ford, Chevrolet, and Cadillac. Each car is in pristine condition and has been meticulously restored to its original state. The museum also features a collection of vintage gas pumps, signs, and other memorabilia that will transport you back in time.

One of the unique features of the Cassadaga Classic Car Museum is that many of the cars on display are for sale. If you’re a car enthusiast looking to add to your collection, this is a great opportunity to see some rare and unique cars up close and potentially make a purchase.

Murphy Auto Museum (Oxnard)

If you’re looking for a car museum that has a stunning collection of classic, vintage, and antique cars, then the Murphy Auto Museum in Oxnard, California is the place. The museum houses over 40 cars, including muscle cars, hot rods, and even a few rare and exotic cars.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Tiki Lounge, where you can take a break and enjoy some refreshments while surrounded by vintage car memorabilia. The museum also has a massive HO scale train and a huge slot car track, which are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

In addition to the cars, the Murphy Auto Museum also has an impressive collection of diecast Hot Wheels cars. You can also check out the Fireball Gallery, which features automotive art from some of Southern California’s best artists.

  • Address: 1930 Eastman, Oxnard, CA 93030
  • Hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm (**Last Admission begins at 3pm because it takes 1hr to get through our Collection)
  • Price: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military, $5 for children aged 6-12, free for children under 6
  • Website: https://www.murphyautomuseum.org/

Pensacola Automobile Museum (Pensacola)

Pensacola Automobile Museum is home to over 100 antique and classic cars, including some of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world. The museum is located in downtown Pensacola, and it is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves cars.

The Pensacola Automobile Museum is a great place to learn about the history of cars, as well as the evolution of automotive technology. The museum has a wide variety of cars on display, including classic American cars, European sports cars, and even some military vehicles. Some of the highlights of the museum’s collection include a 1930 Duesenberg Model J, a 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL, and a 1967 Ferrari 330 GTC.

The museum also has a collection of motorcycles, as well as an exhibit on the history of the Pensacola Motor Speedway. The exhibit features photos, artifacts, and memorabilia from the speedway’s history, including some of the cars that raced there.

  • Address: 208 N. Palafox St., Pensacola, FL 32502
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
  • Price: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military, $6 for children 3-14, free for children under 3
  • Website: https://www.pensacolaautomuseum.com/

Muscle Car City Museum (Punta Gorda)

If you’re a fan of American muscle cars, then the Muscle Car City Museum in Punta Gorda is a must-visit destination. This museum is home to one of the largest GM muscle car collections in the nation, with over 200 cars on display. The collection includes classic cars from the 1950s to the 1970s, as well as some more modern muscle cars.

The Muscle Car City Museum is not just a place to look at cars, it’s also a place to learn about them. The museum offers guided tours that are led by knowledgeable staff who can provide you with interesting facts and stories about the cars on display. You can also take part in one of the museum’s monthly events in the parking lot, such as the classic car show or the swap meet.

One of the highlights of the Muscle Car City Museum is the ’60s diner, which is located inside the museum. The diner serves classic American food such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes, and is decorated with vintage memorabilia from the era.

  • Address: 10175 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, Florida (FL), USA
  • Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Price: Adults: $12.50, Seniors (65+): $11.50, Children (ages 3-12): $6.50, Children under 3: Free
  • Website: https://www.musclecarcity.net/

Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex Motorworks (Ellenton)

The Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex Motorworks features a great collection of vintage cars, muscle cars, and even some rare vehicles that you won’t find anywhere else.

One of the highlights of this museum is the 1961 Chrysler 300G, which is considered one of the most beautiful cars ever made. You will also find a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28, a 1969 Dodge Charger R/T, and a 1970 Plymouth Superbird.

But that’s not all. The Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex Motorworks also has a great collection of motorcycles, including a 1942 Harley Davidson WLA and a 1968 BSA Firebird Scrambler.

If you are interested in racing, you will love the section dedicated to drag racing. This museum has a great collection of dragsters, including a 1968 Hemi Dart and a 1970 Plymouth Barracuda.

  • Address: 5309 – 29th St. E. Ellenton, FL 34222
  • Hours: Monday – Friday: 10am – 6pm, Saturday: 10am – 4pm, Sunday: Closed
  • Price: Adults: $12, Children (5-12): $8, Children under 5: Free
  • Link: https://www.ellentonice.com/motorworks/