Are you a transportation enthusiast or just someone who loves learning about how we got from point A to point B? Georgia is packed with amazing museums that showcase everything from vintage trains to classic cars and aircraft. If you’re planning a road trip or just looking for a cool weekend activity, check out these 12 transportation museums across the Peach State. Trust us, they’re worth the visit!
Southeastern Railway Museum
Located in Duluth, the Southeastern Railway Museum is a haven for train lovers. This museum features an impressive collection of historic locomotives and railcars, offering a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. You can explore restored engines and even climb aboard some of the exhibits to get a true feel of what it was like to ride the rails in the past.
The museum also hosts events and train rides, making it a great spot for a family outing. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about how trains evolved, this place will definitely have something to spark your interest.
Savoy Automobile Museum
In Cartersville, the Savoy Automobile Museum is a car lover’s paradise. It boasts a stunning collection of classic and vintage automobiles, ranging from early 20th-century models to more recent classics. Each car is beautifully preserved, providing a glimpse into automotive design and innovation over the years.
The museum also features rotating exhibits and special events, making each visit a new experience. If you’re into cars and want to see some real gems up close, this place should definitely be on your list.
Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
In Kennesaw, the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History combines two fascinating topics: the Civil War and railroads. The museum’s centerpiece is the “General,” a famous locomotive from the Great Locomotive Chase of 1862. This event was a daring Union raid during the Civil War, and the General played a key role in it.
The museum offers interactive exhibits and detailed displays about the impact of railroads on the war. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about how trains influenced military history and the development of the South.
Georgia State Railroad Museum
Located in Savannah, the Georgia State Railroad Museum is a must-see for train enthusiasts. It features a variety of historic railcars and engines, some of which are still operational. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and even take part in special events like train rides and workshops.
What sets this museum apart is its focus on the restoration and preservation of these historic vehicles. It’s not just a museum; it’s a working railroad facility where you can see the ongoing efforts to keep the legacy of rail transport alive.
Delta Flight Museum
In Atlanta, the Delta Flight Museum offers an amazing look into the history of aviation. Located at Delta Airlines’ headquarters, this museum showcases the evolution of air travel through a collection of vintage aircraft and interactive exhibits. You can explore old cockpit designs and see how airline technology has advanced over the decades.
The museum also features a restored Boeing 767 and a number of other historic planes. It’s a fantastic spot for anyone interested in how air travel has shaped our world.
Miles Through Time Automotive Museum
Located in Toccoa, the Miles Through Time Automotive Museum is a hidden gem for car enthusiasts. It features a diverse collection of vehicles, from muscle cars to rare classics. The museum’s owner is passionate about cars and has curated an impressive array of models that tell the story of automotive history.
What makes this museum special is its focus on showcasing vehicles that are often overlooked. You’ll find unique and rare cars that you might not see anywhere else. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves cars and wants to explore a wide variety of automotive history.
Sparky’s Machines Auto Museum
In Hiawassee, Sparky’s Machines Auto Museum offers a delightful dive into the world of vintage cars. This museum has an eclectic mix of vehicles, including some rare and quirky finds. Each car is lovingly restored, and the museum’s owner, Sparky, is known for his friendly and knowledgeable tours.
The museum’s collection is constantly changing, so there’s always something new to see. It’s a great spot to check out if you’re in the mood for a more personal and engaging car museum experience.
Museum of Aviation
Located in Warner Robins, the Museum of Aviation is one of the largest aviation museums in the U.S. It features an extensive collection of aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and civilian planes. The museum’s exhibits cover the history of aviation from World War I to the present day.
In addition to the aircraft, the museum offers educational programs and special events. Whether you’re a history buff or an aviation enthusiast, this museum provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of flight.
The Aviation History & Technology Center
If you’re into aviation and want to dive into the tech behind flying, the Aviation History & Technology Center is a must-visit. This place offers a deep dive into the technological advancements that have shaped aviation history. You’ll find a variety of exhibits showcasing the development of aircraft from their early days to modern marvels.
The center is packed with interactive displays that let you get hands-on with flight technology. Whether you’re exploring cockpit simulations or learning about the engineering behind different aircraft, it’s a fascinating spot for anyone interested in how planes have evolved.
National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
In Pooler, the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is dedicated to the history of the Eighth Air Force, which played a crucial role in World War II. The museum features a range of exhibits, including aircraft, uniforms, and personal stories from those who served.
The museum’s interactive displays and detailed historical accounts offer a deep dive into the experiences of the airmen. It’s an important stop for anyone interested in military history and the contributions of the Eighth Air Force.
If you love aviation, you can also check out our list of aviation museums across America!
Ships Of The Sea Maritime Museum
Situated in Savannah, the Ships Of The Sea Maritime Museum explores the history of maritime transportation. The museum is housed in a historic mansion and features exhibits on shipbuilding, navigation, and maritime trade. The collection includes models of historic ships and artifacts related to seafaring.
The museum also hosts events and educational programs, making it a great place to learn about the maritime history that has shaped Georgia’s coastal communities. It’s a fascinating visit for anyone interested in the sea and its history.
Old Car City
For car enthusiasts, Old Car City in White, Georgia, is like a vintage car lover’s paradise. This sprawling auto museum is a unique blend of a vintage car junkyard and a nostalgic showroom. With over 4,000 classic cars spread across 34 acres, it’s the largest classic car junkyard in the world. Here, you can wander through rows and rows of cars from the 1920s to the 1980s, each one telling its own story.
What sets Old Car City apart is its atmosphere. It feels like stepping back in time, with cars partially restored or in their original, weathered state. It’s perfect for finding rare parts or just enjoying a stroll in some automotive history. Whether you’re hunting for a specific model or just want to soak in the sights and sounds of classic cars, Old Car City offers a unique and memorable experience.
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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