Michigan’s 4 Best Attractions for Car Lovers
Car lovers know Michigan is one of the best places to visit to learn about the history of the automotive industry as well as what exciting innovations are coming in the next few years. Rich in history, Detroit and other areas of Michigan offer attractions that car fans enjoy visiting. Keep reading for a list of the four best attractions in the state for people who love cars.
1. View Cars of the Past at the Gilmore Car Museum
Located about 18 miles outside of Kalamazoo, this charming museum is home to a vintage Ford dealership, antique cars from as early as the 1890’s, and hot rods from the 1960’s and 1970’s. The museum hosts various special events throughout the year and brings in special collections from time to time.
The Gilmore Car Museum’s hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adult tickets are $12 each with discounts available for children and youth. Children under age six and active military members are free.
2. Get to Know the Ford Family by Visiting Their Home
Head northeast of Detroit and visit the Edsel and Eleanor home in Grosse Pointe Shores. This mansion helps automotive enthusiasts understand the family that produced the three men who would hold elevated positions in the Ford Motor Company. Heavy on history and the Ford family’s philanthropic work, touring this home is like revisiting a time when America was on the brink of the Great Depression.
Hours for the home vary with the seasons. Tours are scheduled twice daily Tuesday through Friday, and every half hour noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. House tour prices range from $12-$15 for adults with discounted prices for kids and seniors.
3. Cheer Your Favorite Driver at the Michigan International Speedway
This NASCAR track offers racing events year round, so it’s best to check the track’s website for upcoming activities. If you want to see the 2016 NASCAR races at this track, plan to visit June 10-12 and August 28. Ticket prices vary depending on the event, with NASCAR races being among the more expensive.
4. Experience History at the Automotive Hall of Fame
Featuring a mix of vehicles and narratives about the people who contributed to the American auto industry, the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn is a must-see for car enthusiasts. Get a close-up view of Edison’s first battery-powered electric car, antique cars, a design showroom with modern vehicles, and motorsports memorabilia. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adult admission is $10 with less expensive child and senior prices. Group pricing is also available.
These are just a few of the car-related attractions in Michigan. There are many more places to visit in a state that’s steeped in a history tightly connected with the American automotive industry. Because hours of operation and admission prices may change without notice, it’s a good idea to call ahead for the latest information.
