International Motor Racing Research Center Watkins Glen
A treasure trove of motorsports history, featuring iconic race cars, rare artifacts, and engaging stories from racing's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
International Motor Racing Research Center Watkins Glen
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A treasure trove of motorsports history, featuring iconic race cars, rare artifacts, and engaging stories from racing's past.
"A motor racing haven of heaven for race car enthusiasts, a beautifully tailored what's what and who's who."
Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share insights about racing history. :speech_balloon:
Don't Miss the Video
The 20-minute Grand Prix history video is a must-watch for a quick, engaging overview. :movie_camera:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Race Cars
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at a diverse collection of iconic race cars spanning different eras and disciplines of motorsports.
Archival Treasures
Exhibition Displays
Explore rare artifacts, trophies, posters, and memorabilia that tell the story of racing's golden age.
Documentary Films
Screening Area
Gain insights into racing history through engaging short films, including a popular 20-minute feature on the Grand Prix.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Immerse Yourself in Racing History
+1Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share insights about racing history. :speech_balloon:
Don't Miss the Video
The 20-minute Grand Prix history video is a must-watch for a quick, engaging overview. :movie_camera:
Check for New Displays
New vehicles and exhibits are frequently added, so check their social media for updates. :car:
Support the Center
Consider membership or participating in auctions to support their preservation mission. :dollar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share insights about racing history. :speech_balloon:
Don't Miss the Video
The 20-minute Grand Prix history video is a must-watch for a quick, engaging overview. :movie_camera:
Check for New Displays
New vehicles and exhibits are frequently added, so check their social media for updates. :car:
Support the Center
Consider membership or participating in auctions to support their preservation mission. :dollar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the International Motor Racing Research Center for its incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff, who enhance the experience with their passion for motorsports. The curated collection of historic race cars and memorabilia is a major highlight, offering a fascinating glimpse into racing history, though some find the center smaller than anticipated. Overall, it's a highly recommended destination for any car or racing enthusiast.
"The museum was really neat with staff that are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. They had a really awesome 20 minute video on the history of the grand prix that I really liked. I didn't know much about it so it was really cool to learn the basic history in that short period of time."
Kristin Kosmides
"I had a fantastic time here today! I’ve always wandered by, but decided to stop in and was treated to a literal museum of sorts. Relics of antiquated beauty to new high octane models, this is a motor racing haven of heaven for race car enthusiasts. The museum was a beautifully tailored what’s what and who’s who of all things in the collective and very comprehensive sport of motor racing. The vibrant enthusiasm for this sport spans countries and cultures and is a perfect opportunity for unity in its most precious element.
My host, the very gracious Duke Argetsinger, is a true blue legend in the motor racing world, as was his father. Humble and kind, he walked me through an encyclopedic perspective about racing in our brief time together and there’s still so much surface left to explore in those halcyon days of racing’s golden age to its limelight and spotlighted present.
Every era and decade was fitfully represented through a mode of mediums, including but not limited to models, archival footage, video presentations, posters, trophies, hard to find artifacts and yes...incredible race cars in the institute’s main room!
This was an absolute one if a kind experience and I look forward to visiting again.
A very special highly recommended!
Really worth a visit!"
Luke Daniel
"Terrific place for any motor head, car lover to spend a bit of time. The staff is amazing, friendly and knowledgeable."
Mark Harris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The center is located in Watkins Glen, NY. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to reach it. Many visitors combine a trip to the center with attending races at the nearby Watkins Glen International circuit. +1
Yes, typically there is parking available for visitors. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for any specific parking instructions, especially during major event weekends.
Absolutely! The center is open to the public and focuses on preserving and sharing motorsports history year-round, independent of race schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Normal operating hours are typically from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, it's always best to verify current hours on their official website or social media, as they can vary, especially during special events.
Entry to the center is generally free, though donations are highly encouraged to support their preservation efforts. Special events or exhibitions might have separate admission fees.
The center frequently hosts special exhibits and events, including vintage car displays and auctions. Check their Instagram reels and website for the latest announcements.
Yes, group visits are welcome. It's recommended to contact the center in advance to arrange your visit and ensure they can accommodate your group size.
🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience
You can expect a wide array of motorsports memorabilia, including historical race cars, trophies, posters, archival footage, and detailed information on various racing eras and disciplines.
While primarily focused on historical and technical aspects of racing, the displays of cars and engaging videos can be interesting for older children and teenagers interested in motorsports.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure about any restrictions.
Some visitors note it's smaller than they might expect, but it's packed with a comprehensive collection and valuable information.
🎫 📚 History & Preservation
The center's mission is to collect, preserve, and share the global history of motorsports, making it accessible to current and future generations.
They achieve this through collecting artifacts, vehicles, archival footage, and promoting research and education about motorsports.
Yes, you can become a member, donate, or participate in their fundraising events and auctions to support their preservation efforts.
The center has strong ties to the racing community, with figures like Jordan Taylor serving as membership chairman and the Argetsinger family being deeply involved.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of a family visit, consider focusing on the visual aspects of the exhibits and discussing the different types of cars and their eras. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are also a great resource; don't hesitate to ask them questions that can spark curiosity in younger visitors. It's a great opportunity to introduce them to a unique aspect of automotive culture in a less overwhelming environment than a live race.
🚗 Dedicated Racing Enthusiasts
Engage with the highly knowledgeable staff, who are often legends in the racing world themselves, and gain insider insights. Take your time to absorb the details in the exhibits and don't miss the historical documentaries, which offer valuable context. Consider becoming a member or participating in their auctions to further support the preservation of this incredible legacy.
+2Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Motorsports History
The center's mission extends beyond mere collection; it aims to make this history accessible and engaging for enthusiasts of all ages. Through carefully curated exhibits, informative video presentations, and the passionate guidance of its knowledgeable staff, the IMRRC provides an immersive experience. Whether you're a seasoned racing historian or a curious newcomer, the center offers a unique opportunity to delve into the stories, innovations, and iconic moments that have shaped motorsports.
Community involvement is key to the IMRRC's sustainability. They actively encourage support through memberships, donations, and participation in events like auctions, ensuring that this invaluable historical resource continues to thrive for generations to come.
+1Exploring the Collections
Beyond the cars themselves, the center boasts an impressive collection of motorsports memorabilia. This includes everything from gleaming trophies and vintage racing posters to hard-to-find artifacts that tell the personal stories of drivers, teams, and significant races. These items provide a deeper context, allowing visitors to connect with the human element of the sport and understand the passion that drives it.
For those seeking a concise yet comprehensive understanding of racing's past, the IMRRC offers engaging documentary films. A particularly popular 20-minute video provides a solid introduction to the history of the Grand Prix, making complex narratives easily digestible for newcomers. This blend of visual displays and informative media ensures a rich and educational visit for every enthusiast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit