LeMay - America’s Car Museum

Must Do Experiences

• Explore the iconic Hall of Customs featuring over 150 meticulously curated classic cars arranged by theme and era

• Visit the Hall of Customs' centerpiece displays including rare Ferraris, Porsches, and American muscle cars

• Experience the American Automotive History exhibit that traces the evolution of car culture across the decades

• Don't miss the rotating special exhibitions that showcase unique automotive themes and limited-edition collections

Hidden Gems

• The museum's architecture itself is a masterpiece — the sweeping metal roof and industrial design are worth admiring even before you step inside

• The on-site restaurant, The Grill at LeMay, serves excellent meals and offers a unique dining experience surrounded by automotive memorabilia

• The museum shop carries exclusive merchandise and rare automotive books you won't find anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest

What Makes it Special

• Home to one of the most comprehensive private automotive collections in the world with over 300 vehicles on display at any given time

• The museum features the iconic 'Hall of Customs' with its dramatic architecture that makes the cars feel like works of art

• Regularly hosts prestigious car shows and events including the famous LeMay America’s Car Show featuring thousands of collector vehicles

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Visit during the spring or fall when Tacoma's weather is mild and the museum hosts its major car shows, including the renowned America's Car Show in August. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more intimate and unhurried experience among the extraordinary vehicles.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Flash photography is prohibited to protect the vehicles, but you can take plenty of photos using natural lighting — embrace the dramatic displays

• The Hall of Customs offers stunning wide-angle shots of entire car collections arranged in sweeping rows

• Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the best ambient lighting through the museum's large windows for exterior and interior shots

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Automotive culture in the Pacific Northwest emphasizes preservation and appreciation of both classic and modern vehicles. Visitors are encouraged to respect the no-flash policy and maintain a quiet reverence for the priceless collection, as these vehicles represent significant historical and cultural heritage.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• America's Car Show — the largest car show in the Pacific Northwest featuring thousands of collector vehicles held annually in August

• Concours d'Elegance — an exclusive event showcasing the museum's most prized vehicles judged by automotive experts

• Holiday-themed exhibits and seasonal special exhibitions that rotate throughout the year offering fresh experiences for returning visitors

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Follow all museum signage and stay behind barriers to protect both yourself and the irreplaceable vehicles on display

• Keep children supervised at all times as the museum floors can be polished and slippery

• Store large bags and backpacks in the designated locker area before entering the exhibition halls