Florida isn’t just about beaches and Disney World; it’s also home to some seriously cool transportation museums. After a day of fun (well, for the kids) with Mickey and Cinderella, why not treat yourself to some car history?
Whether you’re a history buff, a car enthusiast, or just someone looking for a fun day out, these museums offer a glimpse into the world of transportation from railroads to classic cars. Here’s a guide to 13 transportation museums in Florida that you definitely need to check out.
Florida Railroad Museum
Located in Parrish, the Florida Railroad Museum is a haven for train lovers. This museum offers both static exhibits and interactive experiences. You can enjoy a scenic train ride that takes you through some beautiful countryside, adding a touch of nostalgia to your visit.
The museum also showcases a variety of vintage locomotives and railcars. It’s a fantastic spot to learn about the history of railroads in Florida and see some truly impressive pieces of machinery up close.
Gold Coast Railroad Museum
Down in Miami, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is a gem for anyone fascinated by trains. With its collection of restored locomotives and passenger cars, you’ll get a real sense of what rail travel was like in the past. The museum’s exhibits include everything from early steam engines to modern rail technology.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the restored ” Ferdinand Magellan” train car, which once carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The museum also offers train rides and special events throughout the year.
West Florida Railroad Museum
In Milton, the West Florida Railroad Museum offers a deep dive into the history of railroads in the region. This museum is known for its friendly volunteers who are eager to share their knowledge about local rail history.
The museum features a range of historical rail equipment, including engines and passenger cars. It’s a great place to learn about the role railroads played in shaping the local economy and community.
Railroad Museum of South Florida
Situated in the heart of Fort Myers, the Railroad Museum of South Florida is a must-visit for those interested in the evolution of railroads in this region. The museum’s exhibits highlight the impact of railroads on South Florida’s development.
With a collection of vintage railcars and engines, plus informative displays, it offers a comprehensive look at the local rail history. The museum also hosts regular events and model train shows that are fun for all ages.
The Orlando Auto Museum
The Orlando Auto Museum is a paradise of classic and exotic cars. From vintage muscle cars to rare sports cars, this museum has a collection that will leave you in awe.
Each car on display is a piece of automotive history, meticulously maintained and showcased. The museum’s exhibits also include some unique and one-of-a-kind vehicles that you won’t find anywhere else.
Tampa Bay Automobile Museum
The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum is another hotspot for car lovers. This museum features an impressive collection of rare and historic automobiles. What sets it apart is its focus on the technological advancements in automotive design.
You’ll find cars from different eras, showcasing how far automotive technology has come. It’s a fantastic place to see rare models and learn about the evolution of car design.
Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine
For a taste of classic Americana, the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine is the place to be. Located in the historic city of St. Augustine, this museum is home to a collection of beautifully restored classic cars.
The museum’s exhibits span several decades, highlighting the elegance and innovation of classic automobiles. Each car has a story, and the museum’s displays provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. And if you are a history buff, take in the city of St. Augustine! It is a beautiful place with so much amazing history.
Tallahassee Automobile Museum
In the state capital, the Tallahassee Automobile Museum offers a diverse collection of automobiles. From classic cars to rare models, this museum has something for every car enthusiast.
The museum also features a range of automotive memorabilia and historical artifacts. It’s a great place to learn about the history of cars and see some truly unique vehicles.
Florida Air Museum
At the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, the Florida Air Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. This museum showcases a wide range of aircraft, from historical planes to modern models.
The exhibits include interactive displays and hands-on activities, making it a fun experience for all ages. You’ll get a close look at the evolution of aviation and the technology that has shaped it.
National Naval Aviation Museum
Located at Naval Air Station Pensacola, the National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the largest aviation museums in the world. It features an extensive collection of aircraft and exhibits related to naval aviation history.
You can explore everything from early biplanes to modern fighter jets. The museum’s immersive displays and interactive exhibits provide a detailed look at the role of naval aviation in American history.
American Muscle Car Museum
In Melbourne, the American Muscle Car Museum is a dream come true for fans of high-performance vehicles. The museum boasts an impressive collection of American muscle cars, showcasing the power and style of these iconic vehicles.
Each car is a testament to the golden age of muscle cars, and the museum’s exhibits provide insights into the design and engineering behind these powerful machines. It’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates classic American automotive performance.
Dauer Museum of Classic Cars
For fans of classic automobiles, the Dauer Museum of Classic Cars is a real treasure. This museum houses a fantastic collection of vintage cars that have been beautifully restored. From sleek sports cars to luxurious cruisers, the variety on display gives you a real sense of how car design has evolved over the decades.
Each vehicle in the museum is a piece of history, meticulously maintained to showcase its original charm. The museum’s staff are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share the backstories of these stunning machines.
Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum
Located in Plant City, the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in trains. This museum showcases a rich collection of railroad history with a variety of exhibits, including vintage locomotives and detailed model train setups.
If you’re passionate about trains or simply searching for a unique and interesting experience, this museum won’t disappoint. It’s a fantastic spot to explore the rich history of railroads and enjoy some impressive model layouts.
East Coast Transportation Museums
Ready for a road trip? If you are done with Florida and are looking for more historical fun, check out our east coast transportation museum list. If you love planes, trains, and automobiles it has a ton of fun places to travel to.
Crazy 80’s Car Museum
For those that love the 1970’s and 1980’s, this museum is just for you. The building is an old furniture store and houses everyday cars that regular people drove during the 70’s and 80’s. No muscle cars or perfect speed demons, these cars are filled with history, dents and dings! If you are ever in Illinois, the Crazy 80’s Car Museum is a must see.
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