Marconi Automotive Museum
A nonprofit museum showcasing rare, exotic, and iconic movie cars, with admission fees benefiting at-risk youth.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Marconi Automotive Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nonprofit museum showcasing rare, exotic, and iconic movie cars, with admission fees benefiting at-risk youth.
"An absolute gem for car enthusiasts, offering a stunning collection and a chance to support a great cause."
🚗 Don't Miss Movie Cars!
See screen-used K.I.T.T., Batmobile, and General Lee. A highlight for many visitors!
💰 Admission Supports Charity
Your ticket fee helps at-risk youth. Feel good about your visit!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Movie & TV Cars
Main Exhibition Hall
See screen-used vehicles like K.I.T.T. from Knight Rider and the Batmobile. A must-see for film and TV buffs!
Exotic and Rare Automotive Collection
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at a dazzling array of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and other high-performance machines. Truly a gearhead's paradise.
Ferrari Restoration Station
Restoration Area
Witness a Ferrari undergoing restoration, complete with lifts and equipment. Get a behind-the-scenes look at automotive craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Marconi Automotive Museum
Family-Friendly Fun & Philanthropy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Don't Miss Movie Cars!
See screen-used K.I.T.T., Batmobile, and General Lee. A highlight for many visitors!
💰 Admission Supports Charity
Your ticket fee helps at-risk youth. Feel good about your visit!
⏱️ Allow 2-3 Hours
Plenty to see without being overwhelming, perfect for a focused visit.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Atmosphere
Engaging for children, with friendly staff who welcome questions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Don't Miss Movie Cars!
See screen-used K.I.T.T., Batmobile, and General Lee. A highlight for many visitors!
💰 Admission Supports Charity
Your ticket fee helps at-risk youth. Feel good about your visit!
⏱️ Allow 2-3 Hours
Plenty to see without being overwhelming, perfect for a focused visit.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Atmosphere
Engaging for children, with friendly staff who welcome questions.
✨ Meticulously Maintained
Cars are in top condition, many are street-ready.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marconi Automotive Museum for its stunning collection of rare, exotic, and iconic movie cars, all meticulously maintained. The friendly staff and family-friendly atmosphere are frequently highlighted, as is the positive impact of admission fees supporting at-risk youth. While not as vast as larger museums, its focused exhibits offer a deeply satisfying experience for car enthusiasts.
"Took my two young boys to the Marconi Auto Museum in Tustin, and we were blown away! From the moment we walked in, they were wide-eyed and full of questions. The collection is incredible—everything from vintage muscle cars to rare Ferraris and race cars. It’s not a huge space, which actually makes it perfect for younger kids. We weren’t overwhelmed, and every turn had something exciting.
The staff was super friendly and welcoming, and they didn’t mind the boys asking a million questions. There’s just enough to see without burning them out, and the energy of the place is fun, not stuffy. It sparked their imaginations and made for a perfect outing.
Also love that proceeds benefit at-risk youth—so it felt good supporting such a cool spot with a mission. Highly recommend for any parent looking for an easy, inspiring, and affordable adventure with their kids."
Jesse King
"We had an event there and it was great! They hosted us very nicely. The whole place was clean and well maintained. The motorcycle and car exhibits were excellent. I could see going back just to look at them."
MARK ESQUIBEL
"What a phenomenal place if you like hot rides and exotic cars. Meticulously maintain, and all the cars are running street ready cars. They have exotic from Lamborghinis and Pagani, to track racers, to open wheel racers.
The guys there are all car, nuts, too, and full of information. We were able to talk to John Marconi, and she was the wealth of information and shared some fascinating stories about his street racing career.
They do do special events where you can rent out the facility for birthday parties, graduations, etc. For me being a car nut and automobile enthusiast, I would love to have my birthday party here and share the experience with my family and Cari Nut friends.
There is a station in the back where you can see them restoring a Ferrari. There is the lifts and all the equipment and you can see the restoration going along.
Yeah, I would highly recommend this place. It’s not as big as the Peterson Museum, but then again this is more gearheads museum. And that’s perfect for me."
Daryl Yokochi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marconi Automotive Museum is located in Tustin, California. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is generally available on-site.
Yes, the museum typically offers on-site parking for visitors. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially during special events, to secure a spot.
If coming from Los Angeles or San Diego, driving via the I-5 freeway is a common route. The museum is easily accessible from major freeways in Orange County.
Yes, the museum often hosts or is a stop for car meetups and rallies, like those organized by Legends Rally. Check their social media for upcoming events. 
While not directly affiliated, many rental car agencies are available in the greater Los Angeles and Orange County areas if you need transportation to the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are typically affordable and directly benefit at-risk youth. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current pricing information.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance can be a good idea, especially if you plan to visit during a special event or weekend. This helps ensure entry and can sometimes save time.
The museum's regular operating hours can vary, and they are sometimes closed on certain days for private events. It's highly recommended to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly, with engaging exhibits that spark children's imaginations. The manageable size makes it less overwhelming for younger visitors.
Yes, the Marconi Automotive Museum is available for private event rentals, including birthday parties and graduations. It's a unique venue for car enthusiasts.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
The collection features a wide range of vehicles, including rare Ferraris, Lamborghinis, classic muscle cars, race cars, and iconic movie/TV cars like K.I.T.T. and the Batmobile. +1
Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring the museum. This allows ample time to appreciate the exhibits without feeling rushed.
While primarily a display museum, the Ferrari restoration station offers a glimpse into the mechanical side of automotive care. The sheer visual spectacle of the cars is highly engaging.
The museum is generally accessible, with exhibits on one level. However, it's always a good idea to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility details if needed.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the museum for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the vehicles.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Marconi Automotive Museum does not typically have an on-site restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding Tustin area.
It's generally not permitted to bring outside food and drinks into the museum exhibits to maintain the cleanliness and preservation of the vehicles.
Tustin offers a variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to more upscale dining. You can find options ranging from American cuisine to international flavors just a short drive away.
Typically, the museum focuses on the automotive exhibits and does not have extensive food service facilities like cafes or snack bars.
If you are renting the facility for a private event, catering services can usually be arranged. It's best to discuss these options with the museum's event coordinator.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic movie cars like K.I.T.T. and the Batmobile, along with the exotic Ferraris and Lamborghinis, make for stunning photographs.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods, to ensure smooth visitor flow. It's advisable to check with staff upon arrival.
The car collection itself provides endless photo opportunities. The Ferrari restoration area also offers a unique, behind-the-scenes perspective.
Visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays, mornings) can offer better lighting and fewer people in your shots.
For professional shoots, it's essential to contact the museum in advance to arrange permissions and discuss any associated fees or guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Focus on the movie cars like K.I.T.T. and the Batmobile to capture their imagination.
* Allow ample time for them to explore without rushing, as the museum is designed for a focused visit.
* Engage with the staff; they often have interesting stories about the cars.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Gearheads
+1 The meticulous maintenance of each car, many of which are street-ready, is a testament to the passion behind the collection. Don't miss:
* The chance to see the Ferrari restoration station for an insider's look at automotive craftsmanship.
* Engaging with the knowledgeable staff, including owner John Marconi, who often shares fascinating stories from his own racing career.
* The opportunity to see iconic movie cars that have left a significant mark on automotive culture.
✨ Budget-Conscious Visitors
Tips for budget travelers:
* Visit during weekday mornings to avoid potential crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
* Pack your own water bottle, as on-site food options are limited, saving on potential snack purchases.
* Combine your visit with a picnic lunch at a nearby park, as Tustin offers several green spaces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marconi Automotive Museum Collection
Beyond the general collection, the museum holds a special place for iconic movie and television cars. Fans can get up close with legendary vehicles like the screen-used K.I.T.T. from 'Knight Rider,' the Batmobile, and the General Lee from 'The Dukes of Hazzard.'
This nonprofit institution is more than just a display of automotive history; it's a testament to passion and philanthropy. The admission fees directly support programs for at-risk youth, making every visit a contribution to a worthy cause.
Events and Community at Marconi
+1Beyond car-centric gatherings, the museum has also opened its doors for charitable galas and community functions. The Patriotic Service Dog Foundation's '22 to Zero Gala and Orange County Rescue Mission's toy drives are examples of how the museum supports important causes.
+1 This demonstrates the museum's commitment to giving back and utilizing its unique space for the benefit of others. The venue is also available for private event rentals, making it an unforgettable location for birthday parties, graduations, and other celebrations, especially for those with a passion for cars. These events not only showcase the museum's stunning collection but also foster a sense of community among attendees. Whether it's a casual car meetup or a formal charity event, the Marconi Automotive Museum provides a memorable backdrop that resonates with its visitors.
![Sherman Library & Gardens - Work area at the Johnson Wax Building, headquarters of the S.C. Johnson and Son Co., Racine, Wisconsin. Color transparency by Carol M. Highsmith, [between 1980 and 2006]. Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division.
https://www.loc.gov/resource/highsm.15571/](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.unsplash.com%2Fphoto-1579625498711-402ac5318f21%3Fcrop%3Dentropy%26cs%3Dtinysrgb%26fit%3Dmax%26fm%3Djpg%26ixid%3DM3w3ODc2Nzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxTaGVybWFuJTIwTGlicmFyeSUyMCUyNiUyMEdhcmRlbnN8ZW58MHwwfHx8MTc1ODUzOTI2OHww%26ixlib%3Drb-4.1.0%26q%3D80%26w%3D1080&w=3840&q=75)
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit