Whether you’re a die-hard car aficionado, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and engaging experience, the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Southwest Michigan, is an unparalleled treasure. More than just a collection of automobiles, the Gilmore Car Museum brings American history to life through the lens of the automobile, showcasing its profound impact on our heritage and society. Here are five compelling reasons why a visit to this Kalamazoo County gem should be at the top of your list.
1 – Explore North America’s Largest and Most Diverse Auto Museum
The story of the Gilmore Car Museum began in 1963 with Donald Gilmore, a Kalamazoo businessman and Chairman of the Upjohn Company, who pursued his passion for automobiles. What started as a personal hobby quickly evolved into a remarkable non-profit museum, opening its doors to the public on July 31, 1966, with an initial display of 35 cars.
Today, the Gilmore Car Museum has grown exponentially, sprawling across 90 meticulously landscaped acres and featuring nearly 400 automobiles from virtually every era of automotive history. This impressive scale firmly establishes the Gilmore Car Museum as the largest auto museum in North America, offering an incredibly diverse and comprehensive journey through automotive evolution.
Adding to its unique appeal, the Gilmore Car Museum campus is home to eight distinct partner museums. These aren’t just collections; they are immersive recreations of automotive history, including authentic dealership settings. Visitors can step back in time as they explore a Franklin dealership circa 1918, a Model A Ford dealership from 1928, a sophisticated 1930s Lincoln showroom, and a classic 1948 Cadillac dealership.
Looking to the future, the museum is set to expand even further with the Gilmore American Muscle exhibit. This exciting addition will be housed in a building designed to evoke the golden age of muscle cars in the early 1970s, promising another captivating experience for visitors.
With its sheer size, diverse collections, and ongoing expansion, the Gilmore Car Museum stands as a definitive destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the world of automobiles and American history. It’s an unparalleled attraction that solidifies its place as North America’s largest auto museum and a truly essential stop during any visit to Kalamazoo and Southwest Michigan.
2 – A Nationally Acclaimed Museum and Award-Winning Destination
The Gilmore Car Museum’s commitment to excellence and historical preservation has earned it widespread recognition and accolades on a national level. Industry experts and travel publications consistently rank it among the very best, solidifying its status as a premier cultural destination.
Considered by leading automotive publications such as Old Cars Weekly, Antique Automobile, and Car Collector Magazine as one of the “Top Three Car Museums in the Nation,” the Gilmore Car Museum consistently exceeds expectations in its exhibits, educational programs, and visitor experiences.
Beyond industry recognition, the museum has also captured the hearts of the public, being voted Michigan’s Greatest Attraction in 2017 by USA Today. This prestigious accolade speaks volumes about the museum’s broad appeal and its ability to engage and entertain visitors of all ages and interests.
Further reinforcing its national appeal, USA Today also recognized the Gilmore Car Museum as one of the Best Attractions for Car Lovers in 2020. This award highlights the museum’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences specifically tailored for automotive enthusiasts.
Adding to its state-level honors, Pure Michigan, the state’s official tourism organization, has named the Gilmore Car Museum as Michigan’s #1 Greatest Historic Auto Attraction. This designation underscores the museum’s crucial role in preserving and showcasing Michigan’s rich automotive heritage.
These accolades collectively demonstrate that the Gilmore Car Museum is not just a regional attraction but a nationally significant destination. Its consistent recognition from both industry authorities and popular polls affirms its position as a leading museum and a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Michigan.
3 – Discover Exclusive, Limited-Time Exhibits and Dynamic Experiences
While the Gilmore Car Museum boasts impressive permanent collections, it continually refreshes its offerings with rotating exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to discover. This commitment to dynamic programming means that repeat visits are consistently rewarded with fresh perspectives and unique automotive stories.
After exploring the museum’s acclaimed permanent exhibits, including the captivating muscle car collection and the nostalgic toy car display, visitors can delve into seasonal and limited-time collections that are often exclusive to the Gilmore. These temporary exhibits are carefully curated to provide diverse themes and perspectives within automotive history and culture, ranging from specific marques and eras to broader social and technological impacts of the automobile.
This ever-changing roster of exhibits is a key element in what makes the Gilmore Car Museum a favorite destination for both local residents and tourists alike. Each visit offers a potentially unique experience, encouraging exploration and repeat engagement. To plan your visit around specific interests, it’s recommended to check the Gilmore Car Museum exhibits page to see what limited-time displays are currently featured. Whether it’s a spotlight on a particular automotive innovator, a celebration of a specific vehicle type, or a thematic exploration of car culture, there’s always a reason to return and experience something new at the Gilmore Car Museum.
4 – Time Travel Through Authentically Preserved American History
At its heart, the Gilmore Car Museum is a living history museum, using the automobile as a lens through which to examine and understand the American experience. The museum’s permanent exhibits are thoughtfully designed to immerse visitors in different eras and aspects of American history, making learning both engaging and memorable.
Among the powerful historical narratives presented is the Dust Bowl: The Great Migration exhibit. This poignant display goes beyond the iconic images of the Dust Bowl era, using automobiles of the 1930s to illustrate the hardships and resilience of Americans during this challenging period. Featuring a rare Duesenberg, custom-built for Hollywood royalty, alongside more common vehicles of the time, the exhibit provides a nuanced look at social stratification and survival during the Great Depression.
Visitors can also step into an authentic 1930’s Shell Station, meticulously recreated with period-correct pumps, signage, and a vast collection of gas station memorabilia. This exhibit transports visitors back to a time when gasoline was just 18 cents a gallon, offering a tangible connection to a bygone era of American roadside culture. Inside, the station also features “20th Century Artifacts: Running On Empty,” a photographic exhibition by Michigan photographer Susan Johnston, adding an artistic layer to the historical setting.
The museum also tackles important social history with The Negro Motorists Green Book Exhibit. This impactful display highlights the challenges faced by African American travelers during the mid-20th century. Featuring life-like figures, a 1948 Buick sedan at an Esso station (one of the few chains that welcomed Black travelers), and informative panels, the exhibit educates visitors about the realities of travel segregation and the vital role of the Green Book as a guide to safe havens. Video interviews with individuals who experienced travel discrimination add powerful personal narratives to the exhibit.
For a taste of classic Americana, George & Sally’s Blue Moon Diner offers an authentic 1941 dining experience. This fully operational diner, originally opened on-site in 2005, provides a nostalgic setting to enjoy a meal and imagine life in mid-century America.
These carefully curated exhibits, among many others at the Gilmore Car Museum, transform a visit into a journey through time. By contextualizing automobiles within broader historical and social narratives, the museum offers a rich and educational experience that resonates with visitors of all backgrounds.
5 – Attend Unique, Year-Round Events and Spectacular Car Shows
The expansive grounds and numerous facilities of the Gilmore Car Museum make it an ideal venue for a wide array of events and shows throughout the year. Beyond its static exhibits, the museum comes alive with dynamic activities that cater to diverse interests and create memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Classic car owners from across the country regularly participate in the museum’s popular cruise-ins, transforming the grounds into a vibrant showcase of automotive pride. These events provide a platform for enthusiasts to display their prized vehicles, share their passion, and connect with fellow car lovers in the stunning setting of the Gilmore campus.
In addition to cruise-ins, the museum hosts a variety of car shows that celebrate specific makes, models, and categories of vehicles. From vintage car shows to showcases of particular marques or transportation types, these events offer focused explorations of automotive history and design. To stay updated on these offerings, visitors can download the latest schedule from the museum’s website.
However, the event calendar at the Gilmore Car Museum extends beyond car-centric activities. The museum also hosts concerts, seasonal festivals, and other special events, ensuring there’s something to appeal to a broad audience, even beyond automotive enthusiasts.
Whether you are deeply passionate about cars or simply seeking engaging activities, the Gilmore Car Museum’s year-round schedule of events offers numerous opportunities for entertainment and enrichment. Checking the list of upcoming events is highly recommended when planning your visit to make the most of the museum’s dynamic offerings.
Ready to Plan Your Visit to the Gilmore Car Museum in Kalamazoo, MI?
Gilmore Car Museum
6865 W. Hickory Road
Hickory Corners, MI 49060
(269) 671-5089 – Fax (269) 671-5843
Museum Hours
Summer Season (April 1 – November 30)
Monday-Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Winter Season (December 1 – March 31)
Daily 10:00am – 5:00pm
The museum is closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Key Visitor Information:
- The Gilmore Car Museum is open year-round. The Historic Campus and outer buildings are accessible from April 1 through November 30.
- The museum is fully handicap accessible, featuring elevators for second-floor access. Wheelchairs (free) and mobility scooters (rental fee) are available; inquire at the Museum Store upon arrival.
- To fully appreciate the museum, allow at least 4-6 hours for your visit.
For comprehensive details, visit the Gilmore Car Museum website. Discover more about Kalamazoo and surrounding attractions in their digital guides.
