Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum - an antique car on display in a museum
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Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum

4.7
·133 reviews·Columbus, United States

A private collection of rare classic cars and antique military vehicles, offering a personal tour and a glimpse into automotive history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more owner interaction

CrowdLow
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Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum - an antique car on display in a museum

Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more owner interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A private collection of rare classic cars and antique military vehicles, offering a personal tour and a glimpse into automotive history.

4.7
(133 reviews)

"The owner was super kind and helpful, he gave the history of the cars, and it's a wonderful place to visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

📞 Call to Book Your Visit

Essential! This is a private collection, so always call ahead to schedule your appointment.

🚗 Easy Parking Available

Enjoy convenient and free parking right outside the museum.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Automobile Collection

Vintage Automobile Collection

Main exhibition hall

Marvel at a curated selection of classic cars, many in original condition, spanning decades of automotive design.

Reddit
Antique Military Vehicles

Antique Military Vehicles

Dedicated section

Explore a fascinating array of antique military vehicles, a standout for many visitors.

Reddit
License Plate History Display

License Plate History Display

Display cases

Delve into the interesting history of license plates from various states and countries.

Reddit+1
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Planning Your Visit

Appointment is Key

This is a privately owned collection, not a traditional museum. You MUST call ahead to schedule your visit. Walk-ins aren't accommodated, ensuring a personalized experience with the owner. Reddit

A Collector's Passion Project

Discover a unique, eclectic mix of classic and rare automobiles, many with original parts. It's a labor of love, offering a glimpse into automotive history and license plate lore. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more owner interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Good for family outings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the coolest place in Chicago you've never heard of! 🤩 Over 300 extremely rare cars dating from 1909 to today in a multi-level space that feels neverending. It's a world-class collection like nothing you've ever seen. This is a hidden gem that will impress anyone. Bonus: Free and easy parking right out front! Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum 📍 3117 N Knox Ave #ChicaGOandKNOW @Klairmo...
@choosechicago
44.7K likes • 835.2K views

📞 Call to Book Your Visit

Essential! This is a private collection, so always call ahead to schedule your appointment. Reddit+1

🚗 Easy Parking Available

Enjoy convenient and free parking right outside the museum. TikTok

UNIQUE PLACE IN VIENNA 🇦🇹 📌Ernst Fuchs Museum/Otto Wagner Villa, Hüttelbergstraße 26, 1140 Vienna, Austria Are you looking for a hidden gem in Vienna? Then you should pay the Ernst Fuchs Museum in the Otto Wagner Villa a visit. Located in an outer district of Vienna this beautiful art deco villa is a gem for both architecture and art lovers. 🖼️ Those of you who love to take photos will also find n...
@lara_kristiin
28.3K likes • 439.8K views
Spent the morning with PJT at Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum here in Cbus. Steve (co-owner) gave Preston an old license plate as a souvenir. What a neat little private collection of history! #PRESTONSWKND 🚘
kyledunaway
72 likes • 0 views

🗣️ Engage with the Owner

The owner is a fantastic guide, sharing rich history and answering all your questions. Reddit+1

🎁 Souvenir License Plates

You might even get to take home a souvenir license plate! Reddit

No museum do Steve Wagner em Columbus the best place. Primeiros turistas brasileiros a vistar.
regigalvaophoto
56 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📞 Call to Book Your Visit

Essential! This is a private collection, so always call ahead to schedule your appointment. Reddit+1

🚗 Easy Parking Available

Enjoy convenient and free parking right outside the museum. TikTok

🗣️ Engage with the Owner

The owner is a fantastic guide, sharing rich history and answering all your questions. Reddit+1

🎁 Souvenir License Plates

You might even get to take home a souvenir license plate! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(133 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum for its unique collection of classic and antique vehicles, often in original condition. The owner's personal touch, extensive knowledge, and friendly demeanor are frequently highlighted as making the visit exceptionally memorable and educational. While it's a private collection requiring appointments, this ensures an intimate and uncrowded experience.

"Awesome old classic cars, almost all original parts. No wait time, but you do need to make an appointment.The owner was super kind and helpful on the facts of all the vehicles. Highly recommend going! 5/5"

Jordan Powell

"The owner was very kind and helpful, he gave the history of the cars, and it's a wonderful place to visit. Make sure you call ahead because it's a privately owned collection and it's not staffed around the clock."

SoundBite

"What a nice find. One of the owners is the tour guide. This small eclectic collection is a great way to spend a few hours. License plate history is very interesting."

melody laurel

What People Like

Owner's personal tours
Rare classic cars
License plate history

What People Dislike

Appointment required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum is located in Columbus, Ohio. While specific public transport details are scarce, it's generally accessible by car, with free parking available. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is free and easy parking available right out front of the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't buy traditional tickets. Instead, you must call ahead to schedule an appointment to visit this private collection. Reddit+1

The museum operates by appointment only. It's crucial to call and arrange your visit in advance as it's not staffed around the clock. Reddit

While specific pricing isn't always advertised, the experience is often described as a wonderful place to visit, with the owner providing a guided tour. It's best to inquire about any potential fees when booking your appointment. Reddit

No, you cannot just show up. It's a privately owned collection, and appointments are required. Make sure to call ahead to secure your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find an eclectic collection of classic cars, many with original parts, antique military vehicles, and an interesting display of license plates from around the world. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Car enthusiasts will love the rare and classic automobiles, many in original condition, and the detailed history shared by the owner. Reddit

A visit typically takes a few hours, offering a relaxed pace to explore the collection and chat with the owner. Reddit

Yes, it's a great family day trip, especially for those interested in cars and history. Kids might enjoy the unique vehicles and the chance to see something different. Instagram

Its uniqueness lies in being a private, curated collection where the owner often acts as the guide, providing personal insights and a very hands-on experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, allowing you to capture the unique vehicles and displays. It's always a good idea to confirm with the owner during your visit. Instagram

Focus on the distinct lines of the classic cars, the details of the military vehicles, and the variety of license plates for interesting shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum offers a unique and engaging experience for families. Kids, especially those with an interest in vehicles, will be fascinated by the collection of classic cars and antique military vehicles. The owner's enthusiastic storytelling can bring the history of these machines to life in an exciting way. InstagramReddit

Key tips for families:
* Book in advance: Always call to schedule your visit to ensure a smooth experience.
* Engage the kids: Encourage them to ask questions; the owner is known for being very informative and friendly.
* Souvenir potential: Keep an eye out for the possibility of taking home a souvenir license plate, which can be a fun memento for children. Reddit

🚗 Car Enthusiasts

For true automotive aficionados, the Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum is a must-visit. The collection boasts a remarkable array of classic cars, many in their original, unrestored glory, offering a rare opportunity to see automotive history preserved. The owner's deep knowledge and passion for each vehicle provide unparalleled insights. Reddit

Highlights for enthusiasts:
* Original condition vehicles: Appreciate the authenticity of cars that have retained their original parts and styling.
* Military vehicle section: Explore a distinct collection of antique military automobiles.
* Owner's expertise: Benefit from detailed historical facts and anecdotes shared by the collector himself. Reddit+1

✨ History Buffs

History lovers will find the Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum a treasure trove of stories. Beyond the automobiles, the museum offers a glimpse into different eras through its curated exhibits, including a fascinating display of license plates from various decades and regions. Reddit+1

What history buffs will appreciate:
* Automotive evolution: Trace the development of car design and technology through the decades.
* License plate history: Discover the changing trends and designs of vehicle identification over time.
* Personal narratives: Hear firsthand accounts and historical context from the owner, adding depth to the exhibits. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Collector's Vision

The Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum is more than just a display of cars; it's a testament to the passion of its owner, Steve Wagner. This isn't a sprawling, corporate museum but a deeply personal collection of automotive history. Many vehicles are kept in their original condition, offering an authentic glimpse into the past. Visitors often highlight the owner's kindness and willingness to share detailed facts about each vehicle, making the experience educational and engaging. Reddit+2

Beyond the cars, the museum also features a fascinating collection of license plates from various states and countries. This adds another layer of historical interest, showcasing the evolution of vehicle identification. The military vehicle section is also a popular draw, providing a different perspective on automotive engineering and history. It's this eclectic mix, curated with care, that sets Wagner-Hagans apart. Reddit+1

Planning your visit is crucial. As a private collection, appointments are mandatory. This ensures that each visitor receives a personalized tour and ample time with the owner, making the experience feel exclusive and special. The lack of crowds, thanks to the appointment system, allows for a more intimate appreciation of the exhibits. Reddit

A Unique Columbus Gem

Nestled within Columbus, Ohio, the Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum stands out as a unique attraction, particularly for those seeking experiences beyond the typical tourist trail. It's often described as a hidden gem, offering a refreshing alternative to larger, more commercial museums. TikTokInstagram

Many visitors find the museum to be a perfect way to spend a few hours, especially on a rainy day or as part of a broader exploration of the German Village area. The intimate setting and the personal touch from the owner create a memorable experience that resonates with guests. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the history and the passion behind the collection. InstagramReddit

Community recommendations consistently emphasize the value of calling ahead. This simple step ensures a smooth visit and allows the owner to prepare for your arrival, enhancing the overall experience. It’s this kind of community-driven advice that helps travelers make the most of their visit to places like Wagner-Hagans. Reddit+1

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