The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum delivers an exceptional automotive experience in a stunning Art Deco setting.
Located in the original 1930s headquarters, the museum showcases over 120 pristine classic vehicles across nine galleries.
Visitors explore the immaculately preserved showroom while period jazz music enhances the authentic atmosphere.
At $12.50 for adults, the self-guided tours offer intimate views of rare models like the first public Duesenberg and Model X Sedan.
This landmark destination holds countless stories within its historic walls.
Why This Museum Stands Out
Among America’s most distinguished automotive museums, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum stands out for its remarkable combination of architectural grandeur and historical significance.
The museum’s Art Deco headquarters building, a National Historic Landmark, houses one of the finest collections of classic automobiles in the Midwest. Its nine themed galleries showcase over 120 vehicles, including legendary Auburns, Cords, and Duesenbergs. The museum’s prominent display of the 1931 Duesenberg J represents one of its most celebrated factory-built models.
What truly sets this institution apart is its dedication to authenticity. The original 1930s showroom has been meticulously recreated with period-correct details.
The museum’s extensive archives handle thousands of research inquiries yearly, while its thorough collection of American car mascots and hood ornaments provides unique insights into automotive design history.
This blend of preservation, education, and automotive innovation creates an unparalleled visitor experience.
A Journey Through Automotive Excellence
When visitors step into the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum, they enter a meticulously preserved time capsule of automotive innovation. The museum’s collection of over 120 classic automobiles spans the prestigious Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg marques, showcasing engineering marvels that defined an era.
Through nine distinct galleries, guests explore everything from groundbreaking racing achievements to revolutionary engineering advancements. The museum offers self-guided tours available nearly year-round, allowing visitors to discover the exhibits at their own pace.
The original 1930s Art Deco headquarters building serves as more than just housing for these mechanical treasures. Its preserved showroom and office spaces transport visitors to the golden age of American automotive design.
Landmark vehicles, including the first public Duesenberg and rare Model X Sedan, stand as proof of the innovative spirit of these pioneering manufacturers, while interactive exhibits bring their stories to life.
Experience the Historic Showroom
Inside the museum’s crown jewel, visitors discover an impeccably preserved 1929 Art Deco showroom that radiates golden-age elegance.
Original terrazzo floors guide guests past gleaming display windows, while period-correct jazz music fills the air. The space showcases over twenty pristine Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg automobiles arranged as they were during the company’s heyday. Many classic models on display are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Distinctive architectural elements transport viewers to the Jazz Age, from fluted brick patterns to carved limestone motifs.
The original chandeliers and wall sconces cast a warm glow across the vehicles, highlighting their meticulous craftsmanship.
As a National Historic Landmark, the showroom provides an authentic glimpse into automotive luxury during the Great Depression era, when the facility served as a global hub for dealers from 99 countries.
Must-See Exhibits and Highlights
The crown jewel of the museum’s collection stands proudly in the Duesenberg Vehicle Gallery, where automotive history comes alive through meticulously preserved masterpieces.
Visitors can marvel at the first publicly sold Duesenberg, nicknamed the “Castle Duesenberg,” alongside the rare 1927 Model X Sedan and Speedster. The iconic 1929 Model J Convertible Coupe represents the pinnacle of American automotive excellence.
The museum’s treasures extend beyond vehicles. An impressive collection of 150 car mascots and hood ornaments tells the story of American luxury from 1911 to 1957. Early drivers relied on these decorative pieces combined with MotoMeter temperature gauges to monitor their engines.
History buffs will appreciate the Thompson submachine gun display, which connects Auburn’s automotive legacy to the era of John Dillinger.
Monthly docent-led tours provide deeper insights into these carefully curated exhibits, making every visit memorable.
Planning Your Visit
Stepping through the grand Art Deco entrance of this automotive time capsule begins with proper planning and attention to detail.
The museum welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the year, except for Christmas and New Year’s Day. Adult admission costs $12.50, while youth under 18 pay $7.50, and children 6 and under enter free.
Visitors should set aside one to two hours to fully appreciate the nine galleries spread across three floors. This historic institution has been preserving automotive heritage since 1974.
The museum’s location at 1600 S Wayne Street offers convenient on-site parking. While weekday visits typically mean smaller crowds, those planning weekend trips should consider calling ahead at 260-925-1444, especially during peak seasons or special events.
The museum store provides an opportunity to take home automotive memorabilia.
Closing Thoughts
The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum stands as a living tribute to America’s automotive golden age.
Within its Art Deco halls, visitors discover not just pristine classic cars but the very spirit of innovation that defined an era.
From the magnificent showroom to the meticulously preserved exhibits, this museum captures the essence of automotive excellence.
For anyone seeking to understand the artistry and engineering mastery of early 20th-century automobiles, this destination remains unmatched.
