Located at 1000 Gordon M Buehrig Pl in Auburn, Indiana, the National Auto & Truck Museum (NATMUS) has earned an impressive 4.8 rating from over 400 reviews. This museum, event venue, and historical landmark celebrates the automotive heritage of Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg vehicles, alongside a rotating lineup of special exhibits. Recent visitors have shared glowing feedback about the friendly staff, the depth of the collection, and the museum's appeal to both car enthusiasts and families, particularly those with young fans of the Pixar 'Cars' movies.
National Auto & Truck Museum at a Glance
The National Auto & Truck Museum is a multifaceted attraction in Auburn, Indiana, recognized as both a museum and an event venue. The venue's website (natmus.org) and phone number (+1 260-925-9100) are available for inquiries. The museum is noted for its wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, and restrooms, making it welcoming for visitors with mobility needs. It also offers free on-site parking, is family-friendly, and includes restroom facilities. The museum's collection includes classic cars and trucks, with a special focus on Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg automobiles of the 1920s and 1930s, all handcrafted in Indiana. Recent special exhibits have included a Pixar 'Cars' display, which drew many families.
What Do Visitors Like About National Auto & Truck Museum?
Visitor feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the museum's impressive collection and knowledgeable staff. Reviewers frequently mention the special Pixar 'Cars' exhibit as a major draw for families, while car enthusiasts appreciate the rare vehicles on display. A few visitors noted that the museum can feel crowded, with cars placed very close together, and one mentioned a broken elevator. Overall, the sentiment is that the museum is a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in automotive history or looking for a fun family outing.
1. Pixar 'Cars' Exhibit Delights Families
Several reviewers highlighted the special Pixar 'Cars' exhibit as a standout experience for children. Allie Bainbridge described her 3-year-old's excitement at 'driving' Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Doc, calling it a day-maker. Courtney Policka noted that her son loved the exhibit, and the family ended up spending three hours exploring the rest of the museum. Jessica Jordan, who traveled from Missouri, also mentioned that her kids loved the Cars exhibit.
2. Impressive Classic Car Collection
Car enthusiasts have praised the museum's extensive collection of classic and rare vehicles. Michael Hubert specifically highlighted the Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg automobiles of the 1920s and '30s, noting the 'impeccable taste' in their display. Other reviewers mentioned seeing unique gems, including the oldest remaining Plymouth Barracuda and a GM Futurliner, as noted by Adam Sherrill.
3. Friendly and Informative Staff
Multiple reviewers have complimented the museum's staff. Allie Bainbridge described them as 'incredibly nice and very informative,' while Bobby Mowry called them 'super friendly.' Courtney Policka also noted that the staff was 'genuinely happy' to have visitors, enhancing the overall experience.
4. Crowded Layout and Minor Issues
A few visitors expressed minor complaints about the museum's layout. 'random vids' and 'mark bahls' both mentioned that the cars were placed very close together, leaving little walking room, and one noted a broken elevator. These comments suggest that while the collection is impressive, the space can feel somewhat cramped.
5. A Historical and Educational Experience
Beyond the vehicles, the museum offers a deep dive into local automotive history. Sydney Jean noted that a visit with her son turned into a history lesson about Auburn and Mr. Cord. Nathan Boyd emphasized the museum's historical significance, especially for learning about Auburn, Indiana's role in the automotive industry.