National Automobile Museum
Explore over 200 antique & vintage cars, from celebrity-owned classics to iconic movie vehicles, in this expansive Reno museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
National Automobile Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 200 antique & vintage cars, from celebrity-owned classics to iconic movie vehicles, in this expansive Reno museum.
"Cannot recommend the docent tour enough! Very informative and brought things to life."
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
With over 200 exhibits, you'll need 2-3 hours. Don't rush! :stopwatch:
🚶♀️ Join a Docent Tour
Highly recommended for insightful stories and historical context. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Celebrity & Movie Cars
Various Galleries
See iconic vehicles owned by stars like John Wayne and Elvis Presley , plus movie cars like the Bluesmobile and Magnum P.I.'s Ferrari .
The Jerrari
Gallery 1
A unique 1977 custom four-wheel-drive Wagoneer fused with Ferrari elements, conceived by Bill Harrah.
Children's Play Area
Designated Area
A fun, interactive space for kids to explore, making it a great family-friendly addition to the museum experience.
The Phantom Corsair
Gallery 4
A stunning 1938 luxury concept car, valued at over $2 million, showcasing futuristic design for its era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Check for Special Exhibits
or AFX Racing slot cars. Check their schedule before your visit to ensure you don't miss any unique displays that might align with your interests.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
With over 200 exhibits, you'll need 2-3 hours. Don't rush! :stopwatch:
🚶♀️ Join a Docent Tour
Highly recommended for insightful stories and historical context. :walking:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Features a great play area for children. +1 :child:
📸 Capture Iconic Rides
From movie cars to celebrity-owned classics, there's plenty to photograph. +1 :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
With over 200 exhibits, you'll need 2-3 hours. Don't rush! :stopwatch:
🚶♀️ Join a Docent Tour
Highly recommended for insightful stories and historical context. :walking:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Features a great play area for children. +1 :child:
📸 Capture Iconic Rides
From movie cars to celebrity-owned classics, there's plenty to photograph. +1 :camera:
🚗 Explore Special Exhibits
Check for temporary displays like Lightning McQueen or slot car tracks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Automobile Museum for its vast and impressive collection of antique and vintage cars, highlighting the diverse range from celebrity-owned vehicles to movie icons. The detailed historical information provided for each exhibit and the engaging docent tours are frequently cited as major positives, making it a worthwhile experience for both car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Some note that the museum is quite expansive, requiring ample time to explore fully.
"Wow! We were excited about seeing this place, but had no idea how encompassing and incredible the collections and it were. So many things to see. So many incredible stories. Cannot recommend the docent tour that starts at 1:30 PM daily enough! Our tour guide was excellent. Very informative and brought things to life in a chronological history. It was a great experience. You’ll need lots of time to explore all of the galleries. Well worth it!!!"
Cyndi Huffman
"I absolutely love this museum! I got married here in 2017. I now have a membership and I bring my daycare kids once a month! The new child's play area is perfect for high energy kiddos!"
Kayla Cole
"The National Car Museum is a phenomenal destination! Even as someone who isn’t a huge car enthusiast, I was captivated by the impressive collection. Each vehicle is displayed with detailed plaques outlining its unique history, manufacturing origins, historical uses, and original cost. The 1938 Phantom Corsair in Gallery 4, valued at over $2 million as of April 2025, is a showstopper! From movie cars to race cars, emergency vehicles, and fire trucks, there’s something for everyone. This non-profit museum, closely tied to the Harrah Casino and Resort, also features an amazing children’s play area, making it a great spot for those with kids or grandkids. I spent over two hours here, and the time flew by. Two thumbs up for anyone interested in automotive history—you won’t be disappointed!"
Chris Neel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Automobile Museum is located in downtown Reno, Nevada, adjacent to the river. It's easily accessible by car and has plenty of parking available. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point in Reno.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The museum is located in downtown Reno, which is close to many of the major casinos, including the Silver Legacy where many visitors stay.
Yes, if you are staying in a downtown Reno hotel like the Silver Legacy, the National Automobile Museum is within walking distance.
For reaching the museum, driving and parking is convenient. If you're exploring downtown, walking is a great option. Ride-sharing services are also readily available in Reno.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official website for the most current information. Some sources mention free entry for specific events or locations, but for general admission, expect a fee.
The museum typically operates daily, but hours can change seasonally or for special events. It's recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, purchasing tickets online in advance is often a good strategy for popular attractions to save time. Check the museum's official website for online booking options.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or military personnel. It's advisable to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any ongoing promotions or group rates.
While you can see highlights quickly, the museum is quite expansive with over 200 exhibits. To truly appreciate it, plan for at least 2-3 hours.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
Don't miss iconic movie cars like the Bluesmobile, celebrity-owned vehicles such as John Wayne's Corvette
and Elvis's car,
and unique pieces like the 1977 Jerrari.
The 1938 Phantom Corsair is also a showstopper.
Absolutely! The museum features a dedicated children's play area +1 and many exhibits, including movie cars and unique vehicles, can capture their imagination.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use, allowing you to capture the impressive collection of vintage and classic cars. +1
Yes, docent-led tours are highly recommended and often start daily around 1:30 PM. They provide in-depth historical context and bring the exhibits to life.
The museum is closely tied to the Harrah Casino and Resort and houses a significant portion of Bill Harrah's extensive car collection, showcasing automotive history from its early days to more modern eras.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The provided information doesn't specify on-site dining options. Visitors often explore nearby restaurants in downtown Reno for meals, especially those looking for non-casino prices.
Since the museum is in downtown Reno, there are numerous restaurants nearby. Many visitors recommend exploring options away from the casinos for more affordable and diverse dining experiences.
Typically, museums have policies against outside food and beverages in exhibit areas. It's best to consume these before entering or utilize designated areas if available.
Downtown Reno offers a variety of restaurants that cater to families. Given the museum's family-friendly nature,+1 you'll likely find suitable dining options nearby.
Reno offers a diverse culinary scene, from classic American diners to international flavors. You can find everything from casual cafes to more upscale dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the gleaming chrome of vintage cars, celebrity-owned vehicles like John Wayne's Corvette, movie cars like the Bluesmobile,
and unique models like the Jerrari.
The sheer variety offers endless photo possibilities.
While personal photography is generally allowed, it's always best to check for specific signage regarding flash photography, as it can sometimes be prohibited to protect delicate exhibits.
Iconic movie cars, celebrity vehicles, and the museum's most unique pieces like the Jerrari and the Phantom Corsair
are excellent subjects. The sheer number of classic and antique cars provides endless photographic subjects.
Weekday mornings generally offer fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. The lighting inside the museum is usually well-managed, but natural light near windows can be appealing.
Yes, you can photograph the play area, but always be mindful of other visitors' privacy, especially children, and avoid intrusive photography. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit for weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The docent tours, while informative, might be best suited for older children who can appreciate the historical context.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the detailed plaques accompanying each vehicle, which offer rich historical context, manufacturing details, and original costs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for any potential discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Harrah Legacy and Collection
The museum showcases a diverse range of vehicles, from early 20th-century marvels to more modern classics. Each car is meticulously displayed with detailed information about its history, manufacturer, and significance. This commitment to historical accuracy and presentation makes the museum a treasure trove for anyone interested in the evolution of the automobile.
Beyond the sheer number of cars, the museum excels at contextualizing them. Whether it's a car owned by a Hollywood legend, a vehicle featured in a blockbuster film, or a groundbreaking piece of engineering, the narratives surrounding each exhibit are as compelling as the vehicles themselves. This approach ensures that even non-car enthusiasts can appreciate the artistry and innovation on display.
Family Fun and Interactive Elements
Beyond the play area, the museum incorporates elements that appeal to a broader audience. The inclusion of movie cars like the Bluesmobile
Furthermore, the museum occasionally features interactive exhibits, such as the AFX Racing slot car track.
These elements encourage active participation and add an extra dimension of entertainment, ensuring that a visit to the National Automobile Museum is an engaging and memorable experience for the entire family. Exploring Iconic and Unique Vehicles
Among the standout exhibits are vehicles with unique provenance. The 1977 Jerrari, a custom fusion of a Jeep Wagoneer and Ferrari, is a prime example of automotive creativity.
Beyond these famous examples, the museum showcases a wide array of vehicles, including race cars, emergency vehicles, and luxury models like the 1938 Phantom Corsair.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit