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AACA Museum

4.8
·2k reviews·Hershey, United States

Explore automotive history through an extensive collection of vintage cars, buses, and motorcycles, including iconic Tucker '48s.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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1914 stearns-knight touring

AACA Museum

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore automotive history through an extensive collection of vintage cars, buses, and motorcycles, including iconic Tucker '48s.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"A truly hidden gem in Hershey, PA, offering a dream come true for old car and truck enthusiasts."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site

No need to pre-book tickets; purchase them conveniently at the museum entrance. :admission_tickets:

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of parking is available on-site, making your arrival hassle-free. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tucker '48 Collection

The Tucker '48 Collection

Tucker Display Area

Explore the world's most extensive collection of the revolutionary Tucker '48 automobiles.

Forrest Gump Bus

Forrest Gump Bus

Bus Exhibit

See the actual 1959 GM bus used in the iconic film 'Forrest Gump'.

Vintage Station Wagons

Vintage Station Wagons

Station Wagon Exhibit

Admire a diverse array of classic station wagons, showcasing automotive design evolution.

Interactive Train Sets

Interactive Train Sets

Children's Area

Experience large, interactive train sets that delight visitors of all ages.

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Planning Your Visit

Don't Miss the Tucker Display

The AACA Museum boasts the world's most extensive Tucker automobile collection. This iconic American car is a must-see for any automotive enthusiast. Plan to spend time exploring this unique exhibit.

Check for Rotating Exhibits

The museum frequently updates its exhibits, often featuring specific themes like station wagons or vintage buses. Check their schedule before your visit to see what's new and plan your exploration accordingly.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During special exhibit openings
Why
See unique displays
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Megan Moves Things to do at Hershey’s Chocolate World 🤩🍫 Which experince would you do? 🤔 #hersheypark #hersheyschocolateworld #chocolateworld #hersheyschocolate #reesesstuffyourcup #hersheytrolleyworks #createyourowncandybar #candybar #unwrapped #hersheysunwrapped #themeparks #themepark
@meganmoves
65.2K likes • 859.7K views

🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site

No need to pre-book tickets; purchase them conveniently at the museum entrance. :admission_tickets:

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of parking is available on-site, making your arrival hassle-free. :car:

Fahrenheit the STEEPEST ROLLER COASTER DROP at Hersheypark #hersheypark #hershey @Hersheypark
@the_coaster_scoop
47.2K likes • 786.2K views
Christmas Trains at the AACA Museum Inc.! #christmastrain #christmastrains
aacamuseum
70 likes • 877 views

🚶‍♂️ Explore All Three Floors

The museum spans three stories, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk! :athletic_shoe:

🔄 Exhibits Rotate Regularly

New exhibits are featured every few months, making repeat visits worthwhile. :repeat:

We had an amazing day celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Tucker ‘48 at the @aacamuseum in Hershey PA. Seeing some cars that we’ve had the privilege to be a part of and long time friends from the museum and Tucker community. Thanks @brendli @seantucker48 @miketucker48 @rekcut48 @howardkroplick @marklieberman7 @chopper_ken @ty_tucker48 @finer_details_nj and many others that we had the pleasure ...
rob_ida
865 likes • 14.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site

No need to pre-book tickets; purchase them conveniently at the museum entrance. :admission_tickets:

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of parking is available on-site, making your arrival hassle-free. :car:

🚶‍♂️ Explore All Three Floors

The museum spans three stories, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk! :athletic_shoe:

🔄 Exhibits Rotate Regularly

New exhibits are featured every few months, making repeat visits worthwhile. :repeat:

👨‍🏫 Knowledgeable Docents

Engage with friendly docents who are eager to share insights about the vehicles. :information_desk:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the AACA Museum as a hidden gem in Hershey, offering an extensive and well-presented collection of vintage vehicles. The immersive displays, knowledgeable staff, and unique exhibits like the Tucker '48 and Forrest Gump bus are frequently highlighted as major draws. While some may find it a change of pace from theme parks, its reasonable pricing and engaging content make it a highly recommended stop for automotive history buffs and families alike.

"This place is truly amazing! It has three stories all filled with old cars, buses, and station wagons. I am an old car and truck enthusiast so this was my dream come true! I was on vacation for Hershey Park and saw it on my way to the park and I knew I had to stop and check it out and when I did I was not disappointed. Their tickets are reasonably priced and you do not need to buy tickets ahead of time, you can buy them there. Truly a hidden gem in Hershey, PA."

Henry Fusco

"This is one of the best museums in the area. I like to visit a couple of times a year even though it's a 2.5 hour ride to get there. They have great exhibits which change every couple of months. Currently they are featuring station wagons along with their other great vehicles, cars, trucks, motorcycles and buses. There are many interactive displays and a room with huge interactive train sets. There is a deducted Tucker display with tons of information on the cars, several on display and a recreation of a Tucker dealership. The docents are very friendly and knowledgeable. If you are interested in automotive history this museum is a must see."

Michael Olszowy

"July 2025
Quite a unique collection of cars, trucks, buses, and motorcycles on display. It’s a great way to spend a couple hours if you love our automobile history and appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that forged the bygone era when these machines were powerful and made to last. Some vehicles here are more than a hundred years old and they even have the Forrest Gump bus that Jenny boarded to head to California."

David S

What People Like

Extensive vehicle collection
Immersive themed displays
Tucker '48 exhibit

What People Dislike

Limited on-site dining

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The AACA Museum is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. If you're coming from out of town, Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is the closest major airport, about a 20-30 minute drive away. Many visitors combine a trip to the museum with other Hershey attractions like Hersheypark. TikTok

Public transportation options directly to the AACA Museum can be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for the Hershey area, but most visitors opt for personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. Reddit

The AACA Museum is a short drive from Hersheypark, typically around 5-10 minutes. You can drive your own car, use a taxi, or a ride-sharing service. It's a great option for a change of pace from the theme park. Reddit

Absolutely! The AACA Museum is a perfect destination for a day trip, especially if you're in the Harrisburg or Hershey area. You can easily spend a few hours exploring its extensive collections. Reddit

Yes, the museum is well-signposted and located conveniently in Hershey, PA. GPS navigation systems will easily guide you to its address. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are considered reasonably priced. You can purchase tickets directly at the museum upon arrival; advance booking is not required. Reddit

No, you do not need to buy tickets ahead of time. Tickets can be purchased at the museum's entrance. Reddit

The museum is typically open daily. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays. Instagram

While specific discounts aren't always advertised, it's worth checking their website for any current promotions or group rates. Membership options might also offer benefits. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps to help navigate the different levels. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The AACA Museum features a vast collection of vintage cars, trucks, buses, and motorcycles across three floors. Highlights include the Tucker '48 collection, the Forrest Gump bus, and rotating special exhibits. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the museum, but car enthusiasts might want to allocate more time, especially if there's a special exhibit. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers several interactive displays, including large train sets that are particularly engaging for children and adults alike. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed inside the museum for personal use. However, it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or areas where photography might be prohibited. Instagram

Yes, the AACA Museum is great for kids! They have interactive train sets and a wide variety of cool vehicles that capture children's imaginations. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The AACA Museum does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, there are many dining options available in the surrounding Hershey area, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. Instagram

It's generally recommended not to bring outside food and drinks into the museum exhibits. There might be designated areas for snacks, but it's best to confirm with the museum staff. Instagram

Hershey offers a variety of dining choices. You can find everything from quick bites at places like Chocolate World to family-friendly restaurants and more upscale dining experiences nearby. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic photo spots include the Tucker '48 cars, the Forrest Gump bus, and the creatively staged vintage vehicles with themed backdrops. The drive-in theater display also offers unique shots. Instagram+1

Professional photography equipment, including tripods, may require special permission. It's advisable to contact the museum in advance if you plan on extensive professional shoots. Instagram

While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits. Always be mindful of signage and staff instructions. Instagram

Weekdays during opening hours often provide fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. The lighting inside the museum is generally good, but natural light near windows can be appealing. Reddit

Yes, the Christmas Trains exhibit is a popular photo opportunity during the holiday season. The festive displays are very photogenic. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The AACA Museum is a fantastic outing for families. The interactive train sets are a huge hit with younger visitors, offering hands-on fun. Reddit Seeing the variety of cool cars, buses, and trucks sparks imagination and can be a great way to introduce children to automotive history in an engaging way. The museum's drive-in theater display also provides a unique visual experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to explore across three floors! Reddit

🚗 Classic Car Enthusiasts

For true automotive aficionados, the AACA Museum is a pilgrimage site. The world's most extensive Tucker '48 collection is an absolute must-see, offering a deep dive into this legendary car. Instagram+1 The museum also features a diverse range of vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles, often presented with detailed historical context and in meticulously staged environments. Reddit+1 With rotating exhibits, there's always something new to discover, making repeat visits highly rewarding. Reddit

🎬 Movie Buffs & Pop Culture Fans

Film fans will be thrilled to see the actual 1959 GM bus from 'Forrest Gump' on display. Instagram This iconic vehicle brings a piece of cinematic history to life. The museum's immersive displays, which often recreate historical settings, can also evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to various eras depicted in film and television. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legendary Tucker '48

The AACA Museum is home to the world's most extensive collection of the Tucker '48 automobile. This groundbreaking car, designed by Preston Tucker, was ahead of its time with innovative safety features like a center headlight that swiveled with the wheels, disc brakes, and a reinforced safety cell. Despite its revolutionary design, the Tucker '48 faced significant opposition and only 51 were ever produced, making them incredibly rare and sought-after collector's items. Instagram+1

Visitors can explore multiple Tucker models, learn about the company's tumultuous history, and even see a recreation of a Tucker dealership. The exhibit provides deep insights into the engineering and design philosophy that made the Tucker '48 a legend in automotive history. It's a true highlight for anyone interested in American automotive innovation. Reddit

Immersive Thematic Displays

Beyond just rows of vehicles, the AACA Museum excels at creating immersive thematic displays. These exhibits go beyond static car presentations by incorporating props, backdrops, and even recreated environments to tell a story. For instance, you might find vintage cars staged in a recreated 1950s diner or a drive-in movie theater setting. InstagramReddit

This approach makes the museum experience more engaging and helps visitors visualize the vehicles in their historical context. The Forrest Gump bus, for example, is presented in a way that evokes scenes from the film, adding an emotional connection for many visitors. Instagram The museum's commitment to detailed presentation, with cars kept up and cleaned with props and backgrounds, is frequently praised by visitors. Reddit

A Smithsonian Affiliate

The AACA Museum is recognized by the Smithsonian Institution as an Affiliate Museum. This affiliation signifies a commitment to preserving and presenting American history and culture, particularly in the realm of transportation. It means the museum adheres to high standards of curation, exhibition, and public engagement. Instagram

As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the AACA Museum contributes to a national network of institutions dedicated to education and cultural enrichment. This partnership underscores the museum's importance in showcasing the evolution of American transportation and its impact on society. Visitors can expect a high-quality educational experience that aligns with the Smithsonian's mission. Instagram

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