National Automobile Museum
Casino magnate Bill Harrah had a bit of an obsession. The man who launched the Harrah’s gaming empire in 1937 also had a penchant for collecting cars, which led to him eventually owning around 1,400 vehicles. During his lifetime, his collection was often considered the most significant assemblage of vintage and one-of-a-kind cars ever.
Harrah passed in 1987, and sadly made no provisions for the collection in his will. When Holiday Inn purchased the corporation in 1980, they also inherited the cars and began to sell off the lucrative collection—but local residents took up the cause to keep the cars together in Nevada. Holiday Inn struck a deal that if money could be raised for a museum, it would donate 175 cars.
The two cities succeeded and in 1989, the National Automobile Museum opened in downtown Reno. Harrah’s collection quickly became one of the city’s top attractions.
Next time you’re in downtown Reno, motor over to the National Automobile Museum and fuel up on some gorgeous Americana. Cars from 1897 to 2003 are presented in gleaming style, revealing the beautiful craftsmanship of days past.
Fasten Your Seatbelts
Autophiles will be entranced at the more than 225 cars on display throughout the 105,000-square-foot complex. Changing exhibits keep the offerings fresh (and beg for repeat visits), while the static displays divulge a deep dive into automobile history. Cars from 1897 to 2003 are presented in gleaming style, revealing the beautiful craftsmanship of days past.
Along with the plethora of beautiful vehicles, there are historic cars that should not be missed—starting with the original 1907 Thomas Flyer. Winner of the 1908 New York to Paris Race around the globe, the car’s exhibit gives a fascinating look at the world’s enchantment with the new motorized carriages and the tenacity of pioneer motorists. Six vehicles attempted the almost-inconceivable race and only three finished, with the Thomas Flyer crossing the finish line 26 days before the next car.
Other champion vehicles await—think myriad speed record setters and race winners—along with a seriously fun collection of celebrity cars. James Dean’s 1949 Mercury Coupe and Elvis’ 1973 Cadillac Eldorado Custom Coupe are two of the many you’ll find once you walk the red carpet into the exhibit.
For kids, check out Guinevere, the van from the film “Onward,” or famed stock car Lightning McQueen from the movie “Cars.” These cars rotate frequently, but there’s always something for the younger members.
Brake for Fun
While most of the National Automobile Museum’s collection is static, new vehicles are brought in on a regular basis. The museum also features a newly expanded, interactive children’s center with entertaining activities. It’s also a place kids can take child-focused (read: fun) classes on auto-related subjects.
The National Automobile Museum routinely holds special events, including in its 157-seat, on-site theatre. If you’re looking to host a wedding, birthday party, or reception, there’s ample space for any occasion. The museum even has a professional podcast studio available to the community.
Cars are an incontrovertible part of American culture, and these beautifully maintained machines thrill all who see them, whether you’re into car culture or not. The next time you’re in downtown Reno, motor over to the museum and fuel up on some gorgeous Americana.
Hours:
The National Automobile Museum in Reno is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Admission:
Admission to the National Automobile Museum is $15 for adults (ages 16-61), $13 for seniors (ages 62+), and $10 for both youths (ages 6-15) and active military, veterans, and first responders (with ID). Children ages 5 and younger are free. Annual museum membership includes a variety of benefits and starts at $45.
This Location:
City
RenoRegion
Northwestern
