Automotive History
and Innovation
History Comes Alive
at Wisconsin Automotive Museum.
Showcasing transportation history, the museum is Wisconsin’s largest auto museum, featuring an ever-changing display of classic and vintage autos and artifacts plus the largest assembled group of Hartford-built Kissel luxury automobiles.
Explore Timeless Elegance
The museum’s art deco interior sets off 125+ vehicles on exhibit, including: Pontiacs, Studebakers, Chevrolets, Kaisers, Fords, and other cars from around the world. The collection is rounded out by displays of automotive artifacts such as gas pumps, signs, license plates, oil cans and other petroliana.
The Iconic
Kissel Collection
The high caliber Kissel automobiles were manufactured in Hartford 1906 – 1931, making Kissel the second longest car manufacturer in Wisconsin. Of the 27,000 produced fewer than 150 are known to exist today, with 25+ currently exhibited at the museum. The most famous Kissel model was the two passenger Speedster, nicknamed the “Gold Bug.” Gold Bug owners included celebrities of the day such as Amelia Earhart, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Greta Garbo, and Fatty Arbuckle. A wide selection of models including 4 passenger, coupes, touring cars, fire engines and trucks are part of the collection.
Nash Car Club
The Nash Car Club of America has space within the museum dedicated to the Wisconsin based vehicles and related memorabilia. Nash began in Kenosha, Wisconsin when the Thomas B. Jeffery Company was purchased by Charles Nash in 1916.
Specialty Vehicle Exhibits
The Hudson Essex Terraplane Historical Society and Southeastern Wisconsin Short Track Hall of Fame also maintain special display areas for their vehicles.
Steam Locomotive Showcase
The museum is home to and showcases the 1913 #1003 Soo Line steam locomotive along with other railroad artifacts.
Visit our Gift Shop
Take home a piece of the past with our exclusive range of museum memorabilia. Each item is a celebration of the remarkable exhibits and stories housed within our walls. Our merchandise is carefully chosen to reflect the spirit of the museum and make for perfect keepsakes or gifts.
Map
Enhance your museum experience by downloading our map, guiding you through captivating exhibits and hidden gems. Navigate with ease and make the most of your visit by having our map at your fingertips.