Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
Step back in time at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, showcasing iconic American luxury cars in a stunning Art Deco masterpiece.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, showcasing iconic American luxury cars in a stunning Art Deco masterpiece.
"It honestly felt like we were walking onto the set of The Great Gatsby."
🚗 Embrace the Art Deco Vibe
The building itself is a stunning Art Deco masterpiece, a true highlight!
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll want to explore all three floors and soak in the history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Showroom
First Floor
Step into the preserved 1930s showroom, an Art Deco masterpiece that still shines.
Gallery of Excellence
Third Floor
Discover rare and unusual cars built in Indiana, showcasing unique automotive history.
Iconic Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg Models
Marvel at the sleek, bold, and character-filled designs of these legendary American automobiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the ACD Experience
Beyond the Cars: The Art Deco Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Embrace the Art Deco Vibe
The building itself is a stunning Art Deco masterpiece, a true highlight!
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll want to explore all three floors and soak in the history.
🎁 Support the Nonprofit
The gift shop proceeds help maintain this incredible museum.
✨ Not just for car buffs
Even if you're not a car enthusiast, the history and design are captivating.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Embrace the Art Deco Vibe
The building itself is a stunning Art Deco masterpiece, a true highlight!
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll want to explore all three floors and soak in the history.
🎁 Support the Nonprofit
The gift shop proceeds help maintain this incredible museum.
✨ Not just for car buffs
Even if you're not a car enthusiast, the history and design are captivating.
📸 Capture the Glamour
The cars and the showroom offer fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum for its extraordinary collection of meticulously restored classic cars and its stunning Art Deco architecture. Many feel transported to a bygone era, appreciating the history, design, and craftsmanship on display. The friendly staff and the well-preserved original showroom are frequently highlighted as positive aspects.
"What an extraordinary collection of many authentic and some very well restored automobiles that represent a unique highlight of American engineering and craftsmanship. These were completely handmade cars, much like Bentley's and Rolls-Royce's in England and in some ways, more stylish and more creative. .
A real treat to be able to get up close and enjoy the rather large collection inside the original manufacturing facility and showroom. The museum has a pretty cool gift shop and all proceeds go to its maintenance and upkeep as a nonprofit institution. If you're into classic cars, then It's worth the trip. Go check it out!"
D G (ConsumerGuru)
"A great museum for the car lover. It's in the old Auburn Auto HQ so the restored art deco building is on display along with a great collection of cars and the history of the brands (Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg). I would recommend the National Auto & Truck Museum which is right behind and in the old Auburn factory. It's heavy on muscle cars and International bricks but worth the stop. You can do both on 3-6hrs depending on how you like to museum."
Joe Marietta
"Like Stepping Into a Great Gatsby Movie!
My wife and I visited the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum today, and it honestly felt like we were walking onto the set of The Great Gatsby. The whole place has this incredible 1920s-30s vibe—elegant, classy, and full of charm.
The staff was super welcoming, and our host was especially friendly, which made the experience even better.
The first floor is the original showroom from back in the day, and it still feels grand. The Auburn and Cord cars on display are absolutely stunning—sleek, bold, and full of character.
Up on the third floor, the Gallery of Excellence showcases rare and unusual cars built right here in Indiana. Some of them were unlike anything we’d ever seen!
Even if you’re not a car enthusiast, this museum is a total gem. It’s a mix of history, design, and vintage style that really transports you. If you’re anywhere near Auburn, do yourself a favor and check it out!"
Raul Hernandez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Auburn, Indiana. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when traveling through Northern Indiana, often mentioned as a worthwhile detour north of Fort Wayne.
Public transportation options directly to the museum are limited. It's best to plan your visit with a personal vehicle or consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.
The museum is located at 1600 S Wayne St, Auburn, IN 46706. GPS navigation will provide the most direct routes from your starting point.
While the museum is a primary draw, Auburn and the surrounding areas offer charming small-town experiences. The museum itself is often highlighted as a key destination in Northern Indiana.
Absolutely! The museum is a pilgrimage site for classic car enthusiasts, and many visitors arrive in their own vintage vehicles, especially during events like the ACD Festival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but typically adult tickets are around $15, with discounts for seniors and children. It's always best to check the official museum website for the most current pricing and any special event surcharges.
The museum is generally open daily, but hours can change seasonally or for special events. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is a good idea, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or special events like the ACD Festival, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and sometimes for groups. Check the museum's website or inquire directly about any available promotions or membership benefits.
While you can certainly do a quick walk-through, to truly appreciate the collection and the history, it's recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours for your visit.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
You'll find an extraordinary collection of over 120 classic, antique, vintage, and special interest cars displayed across three floors. Highlights include the original Auburn Automobile Company showroom and the Gallery of Excellence featuring Indiana-built vehicles.
The museum is housed in a historic building, but efforts have been made to ensure accessibility. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility features if needed.
While not always explicitly advertised, friendly staff and volunteers are often on hand to share insights. Some visitors have mentioned particularly welcoming hosts who enhance the experience.
The museum is located in the original 1930s national headquarters of the Auburn Automobile Company, preserving a significant piece of American automotive history and the legacy of these luxury brands.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography or professional shoots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there is a gift shop that may offer small snacks or beverages. You'll find various dining options in downtown Auburn.
Auburn offers a range of dining choices, from casual diners to local eateries. Exploring the downtown area near the museum will provide several options for lunch or dinner.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the exhibits. It's best to consume them before entering or utilize designated areas if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The original Art Deco showroom on the first floor is incredibly photogenic. The cars themselves, with their sleek lines and vintage charm, also make for stunning shots. 
Tripod usage might be restricted to ensure the safety of exhibits and other visitors. It's advisable to check with museum staff upon arrival regarding their photography policy for tripods.
All the Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg models are visually striking. Look for unique details, chrome accents, and the distinctive grille designs. The rarer Indiana-built cars in the Gallery of Excellence also offer unique photographic opportunities.
The museum has ambient lighting that highlights the cars. Natural light from the showroom windows can be particularly beautiful. Consider visiting during daytime hours for the best natural light.
Yes, the Art Deco architecture of the building's exterior is also very impressive and makes for great photographs, especially from the front entrance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for kids, consider framing it as a treasure hunt for cool old cars or a journey back in time. Encourage them to spot their favorite colors or shapes. The museum's nonprofit status means proceeds support its upkeep, a good point to share about community support. While there aren't specific interactive exhibits for young children, the impressive collection and the architectural beauty of the building can still provide a memorable outing.
🚗 Classic Car Enthusiasts
The Gallery of Excellence on the third floor is a particular draw, showcasing rare and unique cars, many of which were built in Indiana. The opportunity to see these rare machines up close, understand their history, and appreciate their craftsmanship is unparalleled. Visiting during the ACD Festival offers an even more immersive experience, with parades and gatherings of fellow enthusiasts.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Visitors can appreciate the building's intricate details, geometric motifs, and overall grandeur, which reflect the era's aesthetic sensibilities. The museum provides context for the industrial and economic history of the region, showcasing the ambition and innovation of American manufacturing during its golden age. It's a place where the history of design, industry, and luxury converge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg
These marques represented the height of American craftsmanship, often compared to European luxury brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Their designs were not only functional but also artistic, reflecting the Art Deco sensibilities of the 1920s and 1930s. The museum's location in the original Auburn Automobile Company headquarters, a stunning Art Deco building, further enhances the immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and understand the context in which these magnificent machines were created.
Visitors often express awe at the sheer beauty and engineering prowess of these vehicles, noting how they felt like stepping into a scene from 'The Great Gatsby.' The museum provides a fascinating narrative of the rise and fall of these premier auto manufacturers, offering insights into American industrial history and the evolution of automotive design. It's a place where history, art, and engineering converge, making it a compelling destination for a wide range of visitors.
Exploring the Art Deco Architecture
Walking through the museum, you'll notice the distinctive Art Deco elements that define the space – from the stylized lighting fixtures to the polished surfaces and the overall sense of sophisticated design. This architectural backdrop perfectly complements the sleek lines and bold aesthetics of the classic automobiles on display. It creates an immersive atmosphere that transports visitors back to a time of glamour and innovation in automotive history.
Many visitors are struck by how well-preserved the building is, noting that it feels like stepping onto a movie set. The combination of the stunning architecture and the world-class car collection makes for a unique and memorable experience, appealing not only to car enthusiasts but also to those who appreciate history, design, and architectural beauty.
The ACD Festival Experience
During the festival, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum plays a central role. It often serves as a starting point or a key location for festival activities, with cars parading out from its grounds. This provides a unique opportunity to see these historic vehicles in motion and experience the vibrant community surrounding them. The energy and excitement during the festival are palpable, offering a dynamic contrast to the more serene museum experience on regular days.
While the festival brings a significant crowd, it offers an unparalleled immersion into the world of classic cars. If you prefer a more tranquil visit, consider planning your trip for weekdays outside of this major event. However, for those who want to experience the full spectrum of the ACD legacy, the festival is an unmissable event that brings the museum's collection to life.
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