Dahl Auto Museum
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Dahl Auto Museum

4.8
·256 reviews·La Crosse, United States

Explore a century of automotive history at the Dahl Auto Museum, featuring a vast collection of classic and modern cars.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Dahl Auto Museum

Dahl Auto Museum

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a century of automotive history at the Dahl Auto Museum, featuring a vast collection of classic and modern cars.

4.8
(256 reviews)

"A true gem and a must see when visiting La Crosse. Highly Recommend!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Car Enthusiast's Dream

See one of Wisconsin's largest car collections, from vintage to modern marvels.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Value

Kids 8 and under are FREE! Great for a budget-friendly outing.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Century of Cars

Century of Cars

Main Exhibition Hall

Explore a stunning collection spanning from 1908 Ford Model T to the 2025 Ford GT.

Dahl Family Legacy

Dahl Family Legacy

Dealership History Exhibit

Discover the century-long story of the Dahl family's involvement in the automotive world.

Starlite Drive-In Recreation

Starlite Drive-In Recreation

Special Exhibit Area

Step back in time with a charming recreation of a classic drive-in movie experience.

Hood Ornament Collection

Hood Ornament Collection

Display Cases

Admire an outstanding collection of intricate and artistic car hood ornaments.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Dahl Auto Museum is a gem for car enthusiasts, showcasing a century of automotive history. To avoid crowds and get the most out of your visit, consider weekdays. Weekends can get busier, especially during special events.

Family Fun & Value

With a $5 admission fee and kids under 8 free, the Dahl Auto Museum offers great value for families. It's a fantastic way to introduce younger generations to automotive history in an engaging way.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Tour groups often depart
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome Sheboygan team! Our newest family members are discovering their Dahl legacy at our historic Auto Museum in La Crosse. From 1911 to today, it's all about servant leadership and putting others first. Excited to have you as part of the family! #DahlFamily #Sheboygan #NewTeamMembers #ServantLeadership #WelcomeHome
dahlauto
28 likes • 651 views

🚗 Car Enthusiast's Dream

See one of Wisconsin's largest car collections, from vintage to modern marvels. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Value

Kids 8 and under are FREE! Great for a budget-friendly outing. Instagram

At some point, we have to go home, but today isn’t the day! 👉 Goodguys 2025 Hall of Fame Road Tour September 19, 2025 Day 6 - Madison, WI to Lakeville, MN Tour Stops: 🛠️ Ringbrothers 🚗 Dahl Auto Museum 🚘 Remlinger Collector Car Museum #ggroadtour #gotrockchips
goodguysrodandcustom
190 likes • 7K views
Dahl auto museum Lacrosse, WI.
siaraclothingstore
1 likes • 40 views

💡 Informative Plaques

Read interesting details about each vehicle for auto trivia or just to learn. Reddit

👋 Friendly Greeters

Knowledgeable staff like Jim are happy to answer questions. Reddit

100 years of family. 100 years of community! 🚗 Join us 1-4 PM @dahlautomuseum where the Dahl family’s century-long commitment to La Crosse shows what happens when business becomes community legacy. $5 admission, kids 8 & under FREE - because family values start with including everyone! Plus - check out their Starlite Drive-in recreation! Supporting @waferfoodpantry because feeding families has alw...
feedthehungrytour
3 likes • 30 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Car Enthusiast's Dream

See one of Wisconsin's largest car collections, from vintage to modern marvels. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Value

Kids 8 and under are FREE! Great for a budget-friendly outing. Instagram

💡 Informative Plaques

Read interesting details about each vehicle for auto trivia or just to learn. Reddit

👋 Friendly Greeters

Knowledgeable staff like Jim are happy to answer questions. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of classic cars and unique models. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(256 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Dahl Auto Museum for its outstanding and diverse collection of vehicles, spanning a century of automotive history. The affordable admission, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the unique Starlite Drive-In recreation are frequently highlighted as major positives. While the museum is relatively small, its curated exhibits offer significant historical value and visual appeal for car enthusiasts and families alike.

"Very nice selection of vehicles which reflected the wide range of automobile history as well as the long involvement of the Dahl Family in the automotive world. 1908 Ford Model T thru the 2025 Ford GT and plenty in between too.
Jim was the greeter when you enter. Great guy and very helpful in answering questions about the displayed vehicles.

The plaques next to the vehicles provided interesting information which will be used for auto trivia clues @ Carossword.com where you can take a free, challenging quiz about your museum visit."

Dan Parisi

"A true gem and a must see when visiting La Crosse. This museum showcases the beauty of cars from the early 1900s until today. Outstanding collection of cars and hood ornaments. Visited on 6.28.2025. Highly Recommend!"

Rick White

"Very interesting little car museum with knowledgeable personnel. Lots of history and information to read on displays."

Deborah Binstock

What People Like

Impressive car selection
Affordable admission
Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Can be small for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Dahl Auto Museum is located in La Crosse, Wisconsin. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors arrive as part of road tours, like the Goodguys 2025 Hall of Fame Road Tour. Instagram

While specific public transport routes directly to the museum might be limited, La Crosse does have a bus system. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most convenient route. Reddit

Yes, the museum welcomes groups and has hosted various tours, including those focused on family legacy and automotive history. TikTokInstagram

Using GPS navigation with the address 'Dahl Auto Museum, La Crosse, WI' should guide you directly to the location. Instagram

La Crosse offers various attractions, and the museum's location makes it a convenient stop for exploring the city's historical and cultural sites. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is very affordable at $5 per person. Children aged 8 and under get in for FREE, making it a great family option. Instagram

The museum is typically open in the afternoons, often from 1 PM to 4 PM, especially on days when special events or programs are held. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current hours. Instagram

Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. The low admission fee and typical crowd levels make walk-in visits convenient. Reddit

The museum already offers a very low admission price, with children under 8 being free. This provides excellent value for all visitors. Instagram

The museum does not typically mention reciprocal membership programs. Given the low admission cost, it's usually more cost-effective to pay the entry fee directly. Reddit

🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience

You'll find an impressive range of vehicles, including classics from the early 1900s like a 1908 Ford Model T, up to modern supercars like a 2025 Ford GT, and many iconic models in between. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! With free admission for kids under 8 and a visually engaging collection of cars, it's a fun and educational outing for families. Instagram

Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits, reading the information plaques, and taking photos. Reddit

The museum sometimes hosts special events and programs, like 'SPARK! On The GO!' which combines museum tours with hands-on activities. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged for personal use. It's a great place to capture classic car beauty. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are advised to dine before or after their visit. Reddit

La Crosse offers a variety of dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to more formal restaurants within a short drive of the museum. Instagram

It's generally best to consume outside food and beverages before entering the museum to keep the exhibits clean and well-preserved. Reddit

Yes, La Crosse has many family-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes, making it easy to find a place to eat after your museum visit. Instagram

La Crosse offers a diverse culinary scene, including American classics, Italian, Mexican, and more, providing plenty of choices for every palate. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on iconic models like the 1908 Ford Model T, vintage European cars, and any unique or rare vehicles on display. The Starlite Drive-In recreation also offers great photo ops. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to check for any specific signage regarding flash photography or professional shoots. Instagram

Weekday afternoons might offer softer lighting and fewer people, allowing for clearer shots. The indoor lighting is generally good throughout the day. Reddit

Absolutely! The hood ornament collection is a highlight and offers fantastic detail shots. Reddit

Try capturing the full grandeur of the cars from different angles, and don't forget to get close-ups of unique features like grilles, headlights, and interiors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Dahl Auto Museum is a fantastic outing for families, offering both fun and educational value. With an incredibly affordable admission of just $5, and children 8 and under getting in FREE, it's a budget-friendly choice. Instagram Kids will be captivated by the sheer variety of cars, from vintage models to sleek sports cars, sparking their imagination. The museum's engaging displays and the chance to see iconic vehicles up close make it an exciting experience for younger visitors. Instagram

Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. The informative plaques provide interesting tidbits that parents can share with their children, turning the visit into a learning opportunity. The Starlite Drive-In recreation also offers a unique, nostalgic element that can be fun for the whole family to explore. Instagram

🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Collectors

For true automotive aficionados, the Dahl Auto Museum is an absolute must-visit. You'll be impressed by the extensive collection, which spans a century of automotive history and includes one of the largest assortments of cars in Wisconsin. Reddit The museum meticulously showcases everything from early 20th-century pioneers like the 1908 Ford Model T to modern marvels such as the 2025 Ford GT, offering a comprehensive overview of automotive evolution. Reddit The detailed information provided with each vehicle, coupled with the knowledgeable staff, offers deep insights for those who appreciate the engineering and design of these machines. Reddit

Pay special attention to the unique models and the impressive hood ornament collection, which are often highlights for seasoned collectors. The museum's connection to the Dahl family's century-long automotive legacy adds another layer of appreciation for the history and dedication behind the collection. TikTokInstagram Don't miss the chance to see vehicles that have been part of significant automotive events or tours. Instagram

Day-Trippers from Nearby Cities

If you're planning a day trip to La Crosse, the Dahl Auto Museum is an excellent and easily manageable stop. Located conveniently, it offers a concentrated dose of automotive history without requiring an entire day. You can easily combine a visit here with other La Crosse attractions, making for a well-rounded itinerary. Instagram

Allocate about 1-2 hours for your visit, allowing ample time to appreciate the diverse car collection and read the informative displays. The affordable admission makes it a great value addition to your day trip. Consider visiting on a weekday afternoon to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more leisurely experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dahl Family Legacy

The Dahl Auto Museum is more than just a collection of cars; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of the Dahl family in the automotive industry. For over a century, the Dahl family has been a cornerstone of the La Crosse community, starting with their dealership operations. This deep-rooted connection to the automotive world is reflected in the museum's curated exhibits, which showcase not only the evolution of automobiles but also the family's commitment to servant leadership and community values. TikTok Visitors can trace this history through displays detailing their dealership's growth and impact.

The museum proudly displays vehicles that represent key milestones in automotive history and the Dahl family's journey. From early 20th-century models to contemporary marvels, each car tells a story. The inclusion of a 1903 Model A Ford reproduction, crafted to commemorate Ford's 75th Anniversary, highlights their dedication to preserving and celebrating automotive heritage. Instagram This personal touch makes the Dahl Auto Museum a unique destination, offering a glimpse into both industrial progress and a family's lasting contribution. TikTok

Exploring the Car Collection

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer breadth and quality of the car collection at the Dahl Auto Museum. This isn't just a display of old vehicles; it's a curated journey through automotive innovation and design. You'll find everything from the foundational models that put the world on wheels, like the 1908 Ford Model T, to the cutting-edge performance machines of today, such as the 2025 Ford GT. Reddit The museum boasts one of the largest collections of cars in Wisconsin, ensuring there's something to captivate every visitor, from casual observers to seasoned gearheads. Reddit

Beyond the headline models, the museum excels in showcasing a diverse range of automobiles. Expect to see a variety of classic American muscle cars, elegant European sedans, quirky vintage compacts, and even specialized vehicles. The detailed plaques accompanying each car provide fascinating insights into their history, specifications, and significance. Reddit Don't miss the chance to admire the intricate hood ornament collection, a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Reddit The museum's commitment to displaying a wide spectrum of automotive history makes it a truly comprehensive experience. Instagram

A Community Hub and Educational Space

The Dahl Auto Museum serves as more than just a repository for classic cars; it's a vibrant community space that fosters engagement and learning. Programs like 'SPARK! On The GO!' demonstrate the museum's dedication to creative engagement, offering hands-on activities and enriching experiences for all ages. Instagram+1 These events often blend historical exploration with interactive fun, making learning about automotive history an enjoyable adventure. The museum's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its family-friendly admission policy, with children under 8 entering for free, encouraging younger generations to connect with automotive heritage. Instagram

The museum also plays a role in broader community events and tours, such as being a stop on the Goodguys 2025 Hall of Fame Road Tour. Instagram This highlights its significance as a destination for automotive enthusiasts nationwide. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, like greeter Jim, enhance the visitor experience by providing valuable information and answering questions, making the museum feel welcoming and accessible. Reddit The Dahl Auto Museum truly embodies the spirit of community, history, and shared passion. TikTok

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