National Automobile Museum

The National Car Museum is a phenomenal destination! Even as someone who isn’t a huge car enthusiast, I was captivated by the impressive collection. Each vehicle is displayed with detailed plaques outlining its unique history, manufacturing origins, historical uses, and original cost. The 1938 Phantom Corsair in Gallery 4, valued at over $2 million as of April 2025, is a showstopper! From movie cars to race cars, emergency vehicles, and fire trucks, there’s something for everyone. This non-profit museum, closely tied to the Harrah Casino and Resort, also features an amazing children’s play area, making it a great spot for those with kids or grandkids. I spent over two hours here, and the time flew by. Two thumbs up for anyone interested in automotive history—you won’t be disappointed!

Wow! We were excited about seeing this place, but had no idea how encompassing and incredible the collections and it were. So many things to see. So many incredible stories. Cannot recommend the docent tour that starts at 1:30 PM daily enough! Our tour guide was excellent. Very informative and brought things to life in a chronological history. It was a great experience. You’ll need lots of time to explore all of the galleries. Well worth it!!!

Beneath Reno’s sky so wide and clear, The National Automobile Museum draws near. A dazzling world of steel and chrome, Where every car feels like home. From vintage rides of days gone past, To sleek machines built to last, Each gleaming hood, each polished wheel, Whispers stories time can’t steal. Elvis’s ride, a shining star, And racecars built to speed afar, Classic curves and engines roar, Legends live forevermore. Kids laugh and play, exploring all, In this grand museum’s hallowed hall, Where history and passion meet, And every visit feels complete. So come and see this treasured place, A shining gem in Reno’s space, Where wheels turn dreams into art, And car lovers find their heart.

I absolutely love this museum! I got married here in 2017. I now have a membership and I bring my daycare kids once a month! The new child's play area is perfect for high energy kiddos!

The National Automobile Museum in Reno is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the area. Located downtown along the Truckee River, this world-class museum celebrates the golden age of the automobile with one of the most impressive and beautifully displayed car collections in the country. The museum was born from the legendary collection of Bill Harrah, the gaming pioneer who spent decades amassing more than 1,400 classic cars. After his passing, the community came together to save a portion of his incredible collection, which now forms the heart of this museum. The result is a stunning tribute to automotive history, innovation, and artistry — all under one roof. The layout is fantastic, guiding visitors through themed galleries that feel like walking through time. You can stroll past early horseless carriages from the 1890s, gleaming luxury models from the Roaring Twenties, powerful muscle cars, and even one-of-a-kind celebrity vehicles. Some of the most famous pieces include the 1907 Thomas Flyer that won the New York to Paris Race in 1908, Elvis Presley’s 1973 Cadillac Eldorado, Frank Sinatra’s sleek 1961 Ghia, and the quirky “Jerrari” — a Jeep Wagoneer powered by a Ferrari V12 engine. Each car has its own story, and the exhibits bring those stories to life with detailed displays and historical settings. What really makes the National Automobile Museum stand out is the people. The staff and volunteers are friendly, passionate, and extremely knowledgeable. They clearly love what they do and are always happy to share fascinating facts or answer questions. Their enthusiasm makes the experience feel personal and engaging, whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates craftsmanship and history. The entire space is clean, well-organized, and thoughtfully designed — perfect for families, travelers, and locals alike. Every corner of the museum offers something interesting, from classic designs to rare engineering marvels. It’s easy to spend a few hours exploring and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface. In short, the National Automobile Museum is one of Reno’s true treasures — a place filled with history, heart, and horsepower. A definite must-visit when you’re in town.