Gilmore Car Museum

This museum is a haven for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. From the moment we set foot on the museum grounds, we knew we were in for a treat.

The museum boasts over 400 vintage cars, displayed across a sprawling 90-acre campus. Join us as we recount our delightful journey through automotive history at the Gilmore Car Museum. 

Our journey began at the Gilmore Heritage Center, the heart of the museum. This massive building is home to an array of classic cars, from the early 20th century to the present day.

The moment we walked in, we were surrounded by gleaming automobiles, each with a unique story to tell. The Heritage Center houses several themed exhibits, each meticulously curated to showcase the evolution of automotive design and technology. 

One of the highlights in the Heritage Center was the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” exhibit. The iconic station wagon was a nostalgic treat. We couldn’t help but take a few pics before venturing on. 

Our visit to the Gilmore Car Museum wouldn’t have been complete without exploring the Muscle Car Gallery. This exhibit celebrates the golden era of American muscle cars, from the mid-1960s through the 1970s.

The gallery's collection showcases the power and performance that defined this iconic period in automotive history. 

In addition to the cars, the Muscle Car Gallery offered a rich collection of memorabilia and artifacts. Vintage advertisements, dealership posters, and photographs from car shows and drag races adorned the walls, providing a deeper insight into the muscle car culture.

These pieces highlighted the excitement and passion that surrounded these cars during their heyday, making the exhibit not just about the vehicles themselves but also about the era they defined. 

Continuing our journey, we visited the Franklin Collection, housed in a charming red barn. The Franklin Automobile Company was known for its air-cooled engines, a unique feature that set it apart from other car manufacturers of the time.

The exhibit showcased a range of Franklin cars, from early models to the luxurious sedans of the 1930s. 

We were fascinated by the innovative engineering behind these cars. The informative displays explained how the air-cooled engines worked and why they were so revolutionary. 

Continuing our journey through automotive history, we visited the Lincoln exhibit.  Featuring a stunning collection of Lincoln cars, from early models to the luxurious sedans and limousines favored by presidents and celebrities. 

We were particularly impressed by the presidential limousines on display, including the Lincoln Continental used by President John F. Kennedy.

The exhibit also featured a collection of Lincoln memorabilia, including advertisements, brochures, and photographs. The elegant design and rich history of the Lincoln cars made this one of our favorite exhibits. 

Our exploration of the Gilmore Car Museum led us to the Steam Barn.  Stepping inside, we were greeted by an array of beautifully restored steam cars, each a marvel of early engineering. 

Our favorite thing about this exhibit is that you get a real sense of the past. These cars were remarkable for their time. It was interesting to see the automobile in its infancy.  Some body styles were very unique to put it nicely, others looked more luxurious for that era. 

No visit to the Gilmore Car Museum would be complete without stopping by the Cadillac-LaSalle Club Museum.

This exhibit, housed in a striking Art Deco-style building, celebrates the history of Cadillac and its companion brand, LaSalle.

The museum's collection spans over a century of automotive history, from the early days of Cadillac to the modern era. 

We were captivated by the luxurious Cadillacs on display, each one a testament to American automotive excellence. The exhibit also featured a collection of memorabilia and artifacts, offering a deeper insight into the Cadillac brand's rich heritage. 

Next, we made our way to the Classic Car Club of America Museum, located in a stunning brick building just a short walk from the Heritage Center.

This museum is dedicated to the "Full Classic" cars of the 1915-1948 era, showcasing some of the most elegant and luxurious vehicles ever made.

Walking through this exhibit felt like stepping into a Great Gatsby party, with gleaming Duesenbergs, Packards, and Cadillacs lining the halls. 

Each car was accompanied by detailed information about its history and significance. We learned about the craftsmanship that went into creating these masterpieces, as well as the stories of their famous owners. We couldn't help but imagine ourselves cruising down a 1930s boulevard in one of these beauties. 

One of the first things we noticed was the meticulously recreated vintage gas station. Adjacent to the gas stations, we found a variety of period buildings, including a fully restored 1941 diner.

Next, we made our way to the Gilmore Event Center, a modern facility that serves as the hub for many of the museum's special events and gatherings. The Event Center's sleek design stood in contrast to the historic barns, showcasing the museum's blend of old and new.  

What A Trip!

Our visit to the Gilmore Car Museum was an unforgettable journey through automotive history. From the elegant Cadillacs to the powerful muscle cars and pioneering steam vehicles, each exhibit provided a unique glimpse into the past. The charming vintage gas stations, period buildings, and the lively event center added to the museum's rich ambiance, making every moment enjoyable. 

Despite our thorough exploration, we realized there was still much more to see. With over 400 vehicles and numerous themed galleries, the museum offers endless discoveries for everyone. Whether you're a car enthusiast, history buff, or looking for a unique outing, the Gilmore Car Museum has something for everyone. 

Our day at the museum was a celebration of automotive artistry and innovation, leaving us with a deep appreciation for history and a promise to return for more adventures in the future.