Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum: Classic Cars & Art Deco Tour
Vintage cars, Art Deco history and hands-on exhibits in Auburn
You’ll walk through Auburn’s original Art Deco headquarters, see over 120 classic cars up close, and peek inside untouched engineering offices from the 1930s. With hands-on exhibits and friendly staff ready to share stories, every moment feels personal—especially when sunlight hits those polished fenders just right.
3h
Step-by-step itinerary
Visit Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum
- Arrive at museum by 9 AM
- Explore original Art Deco offices
- View engineering and design departments
- See over 120 classic automobiles
- Shop at museum store
- Depart by 5 PM
The Experience
I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum would be the smell—kind of like old leather seats mixed with floor polish and a little engine oil. It hit me right as we walked through those big glass doors. The building itself is this 1930s Art Deco beauty, all shiny floors and curved lines. I caught myself running my hand along the banister just because it felt so solid, you know? Our tickets were scanned by a guy named Mark who told us to “watch out for the chrome reflections upstairs.” He grinned like he’d seen people get lost in them before.
We wandered past these wild old cars—120 of them, apparently—some with hood ornaments that looked like tiny sculptures. There was this deep green Duesenberg that I kept circling back to; something about the way the light hit its fenders made it look almost alive. In one corner, a couple of kids were pretending to drive an antique Auburn while their grandma tried (and failed) to explain what a crank starter was. The museum’s original engineering office is still there too, papers and drafting tools left out like someone just stepped away for lunch.
It’s weirdly quiet except for soft jazz playing near the Design Department exhibit. I overheard a volunteer telling someone how these cars used to roll right off assembly lines here—right where we were standing. That kind of gave me goosebumps. We didn’t rush; nobody does here. I kept thinking about how much care went into each car, and how different things feel when you’re surrounded by stories instead of just stuff. Honestly, I still think about that green Duesenberg sometimes—like maybe if you stood there long enough, you’d hear it start up again.
What’s included
Your ticket covers full admission to all three floors of exhibits—including classic automobiles from every era—and access to original Art Deco offices and design rooms. Families with young kids can bring strollers or prams, service animals are welcome everywhere, and your entry fee can even go toward a future membership if you want to come back again (I might).
Operated by Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
Traveler reviews
Top questions
Is the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the museum.
Are children allowed at the museum?
Yes, children are welcome and kids 6 and under get free admission.
What are the opening hours for the museum?
The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Can infants or small children use strollers inside?
Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers inside the museum.
Is public transportation available nearby?
Yes, there are public transportation options available near the museum.
Are service animals permitted in the museum?
Yes, service animals are allowed inside all areas of the museum.
Does my admission fee count toward membership?
Your admission fee can be applied toward a museum membership if you choose to join.
Are there changing tables in restrooms?
Yes, changing tables are available in all restrooms throughout the museum.
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum: Classic Cars & Art Deco Tour
3h · EN
from US$ 19.24 per person
★★★★★★★★★★4.9079 reviews
