National Automobile Museum - an antique car on display in a museum
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National Automobile Museum

4.6
·728 reviews·Encamp, Andorra

Explore the fascinating evolution of automotive technology with a stunning collection of vintage cars and unique vehicles.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Free Admission Day

Save money and enjoy family fun

CrowdHigh
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National Automobile Museum - an antique car on display in a museum

National Automobile Museum

Best Time

Free Admission Day

Save money and enjoy family fun

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the fascinating evolution of automotive technology with a stunning collection of vintage cars and unique vehicles.

4.6
(728 reviews)

"A very cool experience and a must-stop if you are in the area."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Grab an Audio Guide

Detailed audio guides offer in-depth info on exhibits, enhancing your visit .

🚗 Park Nearby

Reasonably-priced parking is available close to the museum entrance .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Car Collection

Vintage Car Collection

Explore a vast array of classic cars and bikes spanning from the 1890s to modern marvels.

Citroën DS

Citroën DS

French Cars Exhibit

Marvel at the iconic and unique design of the French Citroën DS.

Lancia Stratos

Lancia Stratos

Sports Cars Exhibit

Admire the striking banana-yellow Lancia Stratos, a standout for many visitors.

Beatnik Bandit

Beatnik Bandit

Custom Cars Exhibit

See the legendary custom car created by Ed 'Big Daddy' Roth.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the National Automobile Museum

Discover the evolution of automotive history at the National Automobile Museum. Plan for 1-2 hours to explore its impressive collection of vintage cars and bikes. Consider visiting during their Free Admission Day for a budget-friendly experience.Instagram+1

Getting There and Parking

The museum is easily accessible, with a reasonably-priced parking lot nearby for those driving in.Reddit If you're bringing your own classic car, like a Miata, you'll find it a welcoming spot.Reddit

Best Times

When
Free Admission Day
Why
Save money and enjoy family fun
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Audio guides offer depth
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Meyers Manx Cafe, Miracle Mile, Los Angeles Few people know about this hidden gem tucked inside the Petersen Automotive Museum, which makes excellent espresso drinks and a mean salmon bowl. Plus, car enthusiasts will appreciate the iconic automobiles on display just outside. #lacoffee #lacoffeeshops #lacoffeeplace #meyersmanx #miraclemile
@tiffanylingtse
209.4K likes • 850.1K views

🎯 Grab an Audio Guide

Detailed audio guides offer in-depth info on exhibits, enhancing your visit.Reddit

🚗 Park Nearby

Reasonably-priced parking is available close to the museum entrance.Reddit

National corvette museum in Kentucky @National Corvette Museum special place must see traveled all the way from Florida #carguy #corvette #chevrolet #nationalcorvettemuseum #c8corvette #c7corvette #carsoftiktok
@richard_skony
192.1K likes • 1.6M views
Meet the Beatnik Bandit! This historic custom car was built by Ed “Big Daddy” Roth in the early 1960s, and is one of his most well-known creations. Roth’s cars went beyond the traditional custom car, becoming a caricature of a hot rod and showing the world how far-out the Rat Fink creator would take his design! During the car-crazy ‘60s, the Beatnik Bandit became immortalized in the form of some ...
hagertydriversfoundation
662 likes • 9.3K views

💰 Free Admission Day

Check for Free Admission Days for a budget-friendly family outing.Instagram+1

⏳ Allow Enough Time

Plan for 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection, though some leave sooner.Reddit

🎉 What. A. Day. 🎉 Our Free Admission Day was a massive hit — with over 1,500 visitors joining us for a full day of fun at the National Automobile Museum! 🚗💨 From colorful face painting to all-day movies, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities, it was a celebration of community, history, and joy. 🧡 A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to support us. We loved seeing so many smilin...
nationalautomobilemuseum
27 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Grab an Audio Guide

Detailed audio guides offer in-depth info on exhibits, enhancing your visit.Reddit

🚗 Park Nearby

Reasonably-priced parking is available close to the museum entrance.Reddit

💰 Free Admission Day

Check for Free Admission Days for a budget-friendly family outing.Instagram+1

⏳ Allow Enough Time

Plan for 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection, though some leave sooner.Reddit

✨ Friendly Staff

Expect enthusiastic and friendly staff eager to share their knowledge.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(728 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the National Automobile Museum for its impressive collection of vintage cars and unique vehicles, highlighting the value for money and the informative audio guides. The friendly staff and the engaging atmosphere, especially during special events, also receive high marks. While some find the museum smaller than expected, most agree it's a worthwhile stop for car enthusiasts and families alike.

"A very cool experience and a must-stop if you are in the area. Staff were very friendly and enthusiastic. There is a considerable amount of older cars and, as others have pointed out, the audio guides are very detailed and informative.

For those driving in, there is also a parking lot close-by that is reasonably-priced."

Nick

"It's a small but great collection of cars with the highlight for me being the banana yellow Lancia Stratos. The price is fair, the staff are super friendly, and you get a really interesting audio guide (unusual for car museums)."

Tim P

"Some truly beautiful unique cars bikes here. We really enjoyed it. Very cheap access fee too."

Victoria Barnfield

What People Like

Impressive car collection
Informative audio guides
Fair admission price

What People Dislike

Can be smaller than expected

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Automobile Museum is located in Reno, Nevada. It's easily accessible by car, and there's a reasonably-priced parking lot nearby.Reddit If you're planning a road trip with your own vehicle, it's a welcoming destination.Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot adjacent to the museum that is considered reasonably-priced by visitors.Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is a great spot for car enthusiasts, and visitors have mentioned bringing their own cars, like a Miata, to visit.Reddit

While not explicitly stated as a scenic route, the museum is noted as a must-see on the Lincoln Highway, a historic transcontinental highway in the US.TikTok

Operating hours can vary, especially for special events like Free Admission Day.Instagram+1 It's best to check the official museum website for the most current hours.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is generally considered quite cheap, with many visitors feeling they got their money's worth and would have paid double.Reddit Keep an eye out for Free Admission Days for an even better deal.Instagram+1

Yes, discounts are often available, especially during special events like Free Admission Day, which also includes membership discounts.Instagram+1

For regular visits, booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it's always a good idea to check the museum's website, especially for special events.

Free Admission Day is a special event where the museum offers complimentary entry to all visitors, often featuring extra activities like face painting, movies, and food trucks.Instagram+2

The museum is generally accessible, with exhibits organized by floor. Audio guides are available in multiple languages.Reddit

🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience

Many visitors highly recommend using the detailed audio guides, which provide extensive information about the vehicles and their history.Reddit Allow 1-2 hours to explore the collection thoroughly.Reddit

Highlights include the unique Citroën DS,TikTok the striking banana-yellow Lancia Stratos, and Ed 'Big Daddy' Roth's custom Beatnik Bandit.Instagram The collection spans from the 1890s onwards.Reddit

Yes, the museum often features hands-on and interactive exhibits, especially during special events like Free Admission Day, which also includes activities like face painting.Instagram+1

While some visitors can see the highlights in about 30 minutes, most people spend 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection and utilize the audio guides.Reddit

Absolutely! It's a dream destination for car lovers, featuring a wide range of vintage cars, custom builds, and even specific models like the Corvette TikTok and classic French cars.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

During special events like Free Admission Day, food trucks are often available.Instagram+1 For daily visits, it's advisable to check the museum's website or plan to dine nearby.

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museums. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit.

Yes, the museum is located in an area with various dining options. For example, the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles has a cafe with espresso drinks and meals,TikTok suggesting similar amenities might be found in the vicinity of other auto museums.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the exhibits. Always check for posted signs or ask staff if unsure.

The unique designs of cars like the Citroën DS TikTok and the vibrant colors of vehicles like the banana-yellow Lancia Stratos make for great photo opportunities. The custom Beatnik Bandit is also a visually striking subject.Instagram

While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or the use of tripods might require special permission. Flash photography is often discouraged.

Similar to photography, personal video recording is typically allowed. However, professional filming may require prior authorization from the museum.

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, would be useful for capturing both wide shots of the cars and details. A prime lens like a 50mm f/1.8 can be great for low-light conditions and isolating specific vehicles.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Automobile Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Look out for their Free Admission Days, which are packed with kid-friendly activities like face painting and interactive exhibits.Instagram+2 These events make the museum an exciting and affordable outing. The audio guides, while detailed, can also be used to engage children by turning the visit into a scavenger hunt for specific car features or historical facts.

Plan for at least 1-2 hours to explore, ensuring kids don't feel rushed. The variety of vehicles, from early models to more modern classics, can capture their imagination. The museum's layout, often organized by era, can help make the historical progression easier for children to understand. Remember to check for any specific children's programming or activity sheets available.

🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Road Trippers

For true car aficionados, the National Automobile Museum is a pilgrimage site. You'll find a remarkable collection of vintage cars, unique custom builds like the Beatnik Bandit,Instagram and iconic models such as the Citroën DS TikTok and Lancia Stratos.Reddit The detailed audio guides are a treasure trove of information, perfect for those who want to dive deep into the technical specifications and history of each vehicle.Reddit

If you're on a road trip, especially along historic routes like the Lincoln Highway,TikTok this museum is a highly recommended stop. Visitors have noted the convenience of nearby parking Reddit and the welcoming atmosphere for those arriving in their own classic cars.Reddit It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the artistry and engineering that has defined automotive history.

💰 Budget Travelers

The National Automobile Museum is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. The admission fee is considered very fair, with many visitors feeling they received excellent value for money.Reddit The real gem for budget travelers is the museum's Free Admission Day, which eliminates the entry cost entirely and often includes additional entertainment.Instagram+2

Even on regular days, the affordable entry price, combined with the wealth of information provided by the free audio guides, makes for a highly rewarding experience without breaking the bank. Parking is also reasonably priced, adding to the overall affordability of a visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolution of Automotive Technology

The National Automobile Museum offers a captivating journey through the evolution of vehicle technology. From the earliest horseless carriages of the late 19th century to the sleek designs of the mid-20th century and beyond, the museum showcases how innovation has shaped the way we travel. Visitors can trace the development of engines, chassis, and body styles, understanding the engineering marvels that defined each era. The collection highlights significant advancements that transformed personal transportation and impacted society. Reddit

Each floor or section of the museum often represents a different period, allowing for a chronological exploration of automotive history. You'll encounter early pioneers, iconic models that became cultural touchstones, and even specialized vehicles like vintage taxis or military transport. The detailed audio guides are invaluable here, providing context on the technological leaps and the historical significance of each automobile.Reddit

Beyond the mechanics, the museum also touches upon the cultural impact of the automobile. Cars are not just machines; they are symbols of freedom, progress, and changing lifestyles. The exhibits often reflect how automotive design and technology have been influenced by societal trends, economic conditions, and artistic movements, making for a richer, more comprehensive understanding of automotive heritage.

Exploring Iconic and Unique Vehicles

The National Automobile Museum is renowned for its collection of iconic and unique vehicles that represent different facets of automotive history and culture. Among the crowd favorites is the banana-yellow Lancia Stratos, a rally car celebrated for its distinctive wedge shape and performance.Reddit Another must-see is the Beatnik Bandit, a legendary custom car built by the influential hot rod artist Ed 'Big Daddy' Roth in the 1960s, embodying the wild and creative spirit of the era.Instagram

For those interested in European automotive design, the Citroën DS is a significant highlight. This French marvel is celebrated for its futuristic styling and innovative engineering, making it a standout piece in the collection.TikTok The museum also features a broad spectrum of American classics, from early models to muscle cars, and even specialized vehicles like vintage Corvettes,TikTok showcasing the diversity of automotive design across different manufacturers and decades.

Whether you're drawn to the raw power of a classic American V8, the elegant lines of a European sports car, or the quirky charm of a custom build, the National Automobile Museum offers a compelling array of vehicles. The collection is curated to appeal to a wide range of interests, ensuring that every visitor can find something to marvel at and learn from.

Family Fun and Community Engagement

The National Automobile Museum actively fosters a family-friendly atmosphere and engages with the local community. They frequently host Free Admission Days, transforming the museum into a hub of activity with face painting, movie screenings, food trucks, and hands-on exhibits.Instagram+2 These events are designed to make the museum accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages, creating memorable experiences for families.

During these special days, the museum goes beyond just displaying cars; it becomes a place for celebration and connection. Interactive elements ensure that younger visitors are entertained and educated, while adults can appreciate the historical significance of the vehicles. The inclusion of activities like face painting and movies adds a festive touch, making it a well-rounded outing for everyone.

This commitment to community engagement extends to offering membership discounts and creating an environment where people can learn, connect, and share their passion for automobiles. It highlights the museum's role not just as a repository of history, but as a vibrant cultural institution that brings people together.

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