Finding hidden gems is one of our favorites. And this month’s visit to the Martin Auto Museum in Phoenix is one of them! It was a unique way to spend a summer morning indoors.
NOTE: this museum recently changed locations, and is even bigger and better at 4320 W Thunderbird Rd, Glendale, AZ 85306. Will update our review soon!
This collection of over 60 cars is incredible. You don’t need to be a car enthusiast to appreciate the amazing spread ranging from late 1800’s to 2015! There are race cars, tour cars, tractors, and more of all sizes. Don’t miss the kid size cars too. There’s a lot of details so take your time. The kids were super intrigued by the discovery that not all cars had seatbelts! Each car has a plaque with general information as well.
Most cars are not available to sit in. And do watch little ones; our toddler touched a few and wasn’t reprimanded by the employee, but climbing or banging would not be appropriate. That said, if you see a super cool car, ask! We may have gotten to slide in to one or two for photos.
There’s also a super cool addition of a carousel, driving video games, and a couple little cars to take a brief ride (think $1 mall rides). All are free with admission! The kids got a kick out of this surprise. The carousel is easy to spot, and the games and rides are tucked away in two different areas.
The Martin Auto Museum is open Tuesday -Saturday, 10am-5pm. Kids 12 and under are free! 13 and up are $10/person. The museum is located off a frontage road near I17 and Union Hills. While not geared for kids, it’s kid friendly (single strollers will even fit down the main rows). We browsed and enjoyed for about an hour. Restrooms are located near the middle of the museum.
Martin Auto Museum
17641 N Black Canyon Hwy
Phoenix, AZ 85023
(602) 298-2377
