Auto Museum in Branson, Missouri
Ideal for car buffs, the Branson Auto Museum is one of the area’s newest attractions, opened to the public in May 2009 after nearly two years in the planning stages. The museum was originally designed to fit inside a 20,000 square foot building on the Strip, but instead was built at the location of a former crafts mall known as the Engler Block. This large 60,000 square-foot building provides plenty of space for automobiles of a variety of makes and models, and because it was laid out in sections, organizers of the Branson Auto Museum were able to create themed galleries in each section.
The Branson Auto Museum was the brainchild of Ralph Hurley and Stewart Howden, who recognized the absence of any car-related museums in the greater Branson area. Not your ordinary museum, the cars both inside and outside the museum – about 120 in all – include many that are for sale. The vehicles are either owned by the museum or are there on consignment until they are sold. That means inventory is constantly changing, making for a new experience each time for those guests who make multiple visits.
Literally all kinds of automobiles are on display at the Branson Auto Museum. A number of them are celebrity vehicles or those that were used in television shows, easily recognized by many visitors. Hot rods and muscle cars are popular as well, and the museum also houses many classics from the early years of automobile manufacturing.
Though the museum is still young and its plans are not all in place at this time, the owners do note that they intend to hold special events at the location and will probably offer classes or other educational programs as well.
The Branson Auto Museum and its staff also plan to offer services to owners of classic cars, including restoration and detailing. Again, these services will emerge as the museum progresses towards achieving its goals.
Also on site are three unique stores where guests can shop for souvenirs or gifts for themselves or others. The main Gift Shop offers a variety of automobile-related items including die-cast models, apparel including hats and t-shirts, books, magazines, videos, and much more. At the Old Toys and More toy store, kids can browse through a large selection of unusual toys, including more model cars, pedal cars, trains, and a variety of other hard-to-find items. Finally, Joe’s Rod Shop is for the serious hot rod collector and offers an excellent selection of hot road parts and accessories.
The Branson Auto Museum offers tickets for one time visits or season passes for those who wish to visit several times during the course of a year. A one-day family pass is available for two adults and up to four children. Children 4 and under are free and special rates and tours are available for groups of 15 or more.
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