Hello and welcome to the world of automobiles! If you are a car lover, enthusiast or just looking for a family adventure, then you must visit the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum. This museum is much more than just a collection of historic cars; it is a magnificent showcase of the evolution of engineering and design. The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum proudly display an array of cars ranging from the earliest 1899 De Dion Bouton, to the revered Porsche 911 and even to an impressive Chrysler Turbine. Whether you are seeking to learn about the technology of yesteryear or simply absorb the aesthetic beauty of cars, the museum has certainly got something for you. Let’s dive in and discover the fascinating world of cars at Tampa Bay Automobile Museum!
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum: A Fascinating Journey Through Automotive History
Car enthusiasts and history buffs alike will find something to love at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum. With over 65 antique, classic, and modern cars on display, visitors can take a fascinating journey through automotive history. From the earliest models to the most cutting-edge prototypes, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of the automobile.
An Overview of the Museum
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum is located in Pinellas County, Florida, and has been a popular destination for car enthusiasts from all over the world since its opening in 2005. The museum was designed to be both educational and entertaining, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the history of the automobile while also admiring the stunning collection on display.
The museum is housed in a beautiful 60,000-square-foot facility, which features a spacious exhibit hall, a research library, and a fully equipped restoration shop. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, taking visitors on a journey through the history of the automobile.
The History of the Museum
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum was founded by Alain Cerf, a Frenchman who had a lifelong love of cars. As a child, Cerf was fascinated by the mechanical workings of automobiles, and he spent countless hours tinkering with his toys. As he grew older, his love for cars continued to grow, and he began collecting classic automobiles.
In the late 1990s, Cerf moved to Florida and decided to share his passion with others. He purchased a piece of land in Pinellas County and began construction on the museum. Over the next few years, Cerf worked tirelessly to build his collection, scouring the globe for rare and unique models.
Today, the museum is run as a non-profit educational institution, with the goal of providing visitors with an in-depth look at the history and development of the automobile.
The Cars on Display
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum features an impressive collection of over 65 antique, classic, and modern cars. The cars are arranged chronologically, giving visitors a sense of the progression of automotive technology over time.
One of the highlights of the collection is the 1948 Tucker Sedan, of which only 51 were ever produced. The museum’s Tucker is one of the few that still has its original engine, and it is in pristine condition. Visitors can also admire classic American cars like the 1919 Pierce-Arrow Model 66A-4 Touring, which was one of the most expensive cars of its time.
The museum also features a number of rare and unusual European cars, like the 1928 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A, which was known for its luxurious interior and advanced engineering. Other European models on display include the 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Cabriolet A, the 1950 Jaguar XK120 Roadster, and the 1963 Porsche 356B Coupe.
Overall, the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum is a must-see for any car enthusiast or history buff. With its impressive collection of antique, classic, and modern cars, and its engaging exhibits, the museum offers a fascinating journey through automotive history.
What Makes the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum Special
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Clearwater, Florida is a unique attraction for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. What sets this museum apart from others is its focus on the evolution of automotive technology, personalized exhibits, and educational programs.
Focusing on Technology and Innovation
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum showcases over 60 cars from various time periods, all of which have contributed to the development of the automobile industry. Each car on display highlights the mechanical and technological advancements of its time. Visitors have the opportunity to witness some of the earliest models, such as the 1911 Mercedes 70HP, to the more modern Aston Martin V12 Vanquish.
One of the most remarkable cars on display is the 1920s Bugatti Type 37A Grand Prix Racer. This car pushed the boundaries of engineering and led to many innovations in race car design. The museum also features other vehicles that were significant steps forward in automotive technology, such as the revolutionary Citroen DS19 that was introduced in 1955.
A Personal Touch
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum takes pride in offering visitors an interactive experience. The museum’s unique approach to exhibiting cars involves highly detailed plaques and displays that provide guests with fascinating stories about the history of each car on display. With the help of the knowledgeable and friendly docents, visitors can take a personalized tour of the museum and learn about the intricate workings of each automobile.
One example of the museum’s personal touch can be seen in the 1908 Detroit Electric model on display. This electric car was once owned by Clara Ford, the wife of Henry Ford. The plaques near the car highlight Clara Ford’s passion for electric vehicles and her contribution to their popularity in the early 1900s.
A Dynamic Learning Experience
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum offers several educational programs that cater to visitors of all ages. One of the most interesting programs is the hands-on restoration workshop. Visitors can sign up for this program and get a chance to work on restoring cars with the guidance of skilled professionals.
The museum also offers a summer camp to provide children with a unique learning opportunity. During the summer camp, students learn about automotive technology and design by building mini-cars. The program is designed to encourage creativity and problem-solving skills in children while also providing them with the knowledge and skills to appreciate the history and mechanics behind the automobiles.
In conclusion, the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum is a fantastic place to learn about the evolution of the automotive industry, witness some of the most remarkable and innovative cars in history, and participate in interactive and educational programs. The museum’s personal approach and commitment to preserving automotive history make it a must-visit attraction for anyone who has an interest in cars or technology.
Plan Your Visit to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum
Location and Hours
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum is located at 3301 Gateway Centre Blvd, Pinellas Park, FL 33782. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The operating hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last admission at 3:00 PM.
When driving to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, visitors are advised to take exit 28 from I-275 to Gandy Boulevard. From there, turn left towards 28th street and make another left turn on Gateway Centre Blvd to arrive at the museum.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
The museum’s admission fees are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors aged 65 and above, and $4 for children aged 6 to 12 years old. Children under the age of 6 can enter for free. The museum also offers discounts for military personnel and students with valid identification.
If you plan to visit the museum in a group, the museum offers a reduced admission price for groups of 12 or more people. The group rate is $8 per person for adults and $3 per person for children aged 6 to 12 years old.
Besides regular admission, the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum offers special event packages for those who want an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience of the museum. They also have memberships available for automobile enthusiasts who want unlimited access to the museum.
Tips for Your Visit
Here are some tips for guests planning to visit the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum:
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking around the museum for at least an hour or two.
- Plan your visit to coincide with one of the museum’s guided tours. The tours provide detailed insight into the vehicles displayed at the museum.
- Free parking is available on-site for visitors, so leave your car in the lot and enjoy your visit.
- If you have a question or need help during your visit, don’t hesitate to ask one of the friendly staff members for assistance.
- Lastly, consider booking your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak hours or on a holiday weekend.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have an enjoyable and memorable time exploring the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum and discovering the rich history behind the automotive industry.