Volo Auto Museum: Admission Ticket

An Honest Look at the Volo Auto Museum: Admission Ticket

Whether you’re a die-hard car enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone simply curious about Americana, the Volo Auto Museum offers a bit of everything. Located just outside Chicago, this sprawling attraction is spread over 35 acres and boasts more than 33 exhibits. From classic cars and vintage bikes to pop culture icons like Batmobiles and Mickey Mouse, there’s plenty to see and explore.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its diverse collection and the way it manages to combine history, nostalgia, and pop culture in one place. Plus, the fact that it’s wheelchair accessible and offers a flexible visit—anywhere from an hour to a full day—means it’s accessible for many kinds of visitors. However, it’s worth noting that some facilities like rides and certain exhibits aren’t included in the standard ticket, which could be a consideration for those on a tight schedule or budget.

If you’re a fan of cars or interested in Americana, this museum could be a highlight of your trip. It’s also a good choice if you want a laid-back day where you can stroll through different themes at your own pace. That said, if you’re expecting a high-tech or ultra-modern experience, this place is more about nostalgia and history than cutting-edge displays.

Key Points

• Sprawling layout: Over 35 acres with 33 unique exhibits.
• Diverse collection: Classic cars, vintage bikes, pop culture memorabilia, military vehicles, trains, and more.
• Flexible time: Spend as little as an hour or up to five hours exploring.
• Family-friendly: Exhibits are suitable for all ages, with wheelchair accessibility.
• Additional costs: Food, rides, and some special exhibits are extra.
• Good value: At around $24.10, it offers a broad look at different aspects of automotive and Americana history.

Exploring the Volo Auto Museum

When you first arrive at the Volo Auto Museum, you’re greeted by the impressive expanse of the property. This is not just a typical small-town auto display. Instead, it’s a well-organized collection that spreads across multiple buildings and outdoor areas, designed to keep you engaged as you wander from one exhibit to the next.

The core of the experience is the over 33 exhibits that showcase everything from muscle cars and classic autos to famous cars from movies. It’s easy to see why car lovers find this place especially appealing. The collection includes pop culture icons like Batmobiles and cartoon-themed cars like Mickey Mouse, which makes for a whimsical element that appeals to families and fans of nostalgia alike.

One of the standout features is the Crime & Punishment Special Exhibit. Visitors have described it as “excellent,” noting the cars are unique and plentiful. The exhibits are spread across different sections, which means there’s a natural flow from one theme to the next. This organization helps you appreciate the historical context and design evolution of automobiles across decades.

The Practicalities

Your visit can last from about an hour up to five hours, depending on your interest level and pace. Most visitors seem to agree that it’s worth setting aside a good chunk of time. As one reviewer put it, “You could literally spend hours and hours here,” especially if you’re a car fanatic or visiting with someone who loves vintage Americana.

The admission price of $24.10 per person offers decent value considering the variety and size of the collection. You get access to the main museum, but keep in mind that food, drinks, and rides are extra. There are no included tours, but the museum’s layout makes for an easy self-guided experience.

Visitor Insights

Many visitors highlight how clean and well-maintained everything appears. One reviewer mentioned, “The place was clean. Exhibits were spread out over a number of buildings, so there is some outside walking.” This suggests you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to spend several hours there.

The exhibits of cars related to movies and pop culture drew praise from many. Gina said she loved seeing cars from Scooby Doo, Miami Vice, and Ninja Turtles, which adds a fun, nostalgic layer to the visit. Conversely, some reviews touched on accessibility issues: not all doorways are perfect for wheelchair users, and a few trip hazards exist. A reviewer shared, “Too many trip hazards for walkers,” and mentioned the wheelchair rental was limited, which could be a concern for visitors with mobility challenges.

The Highlights: What Makes the Volo Auto Museum Special

Classic and Vintage Cars

The core attraction is easily the collection of classic and muscle cars, which range from early 20th-century models to high-performance machines. Car enthusiasts will love the opportunity to see these up close, read their stories, and imagine the eras they come from. For many, the vintage car displays serve as a nostalgic trip through American automotive history.

Pop Culture and Americana Exhibits

The museum doesn’t just focus on vehicles—there’s a significant emphasis on pop culture. Cars from movies, cartoons, and TV shows are displayed, making it a hit with families and fans of entertainment history. The Batmobile collection is especially popular, along with cars from Scooby Doo and Miami Vice. These exhibits offer more than just automotive interest—they’re conversation starters and photo ops.

Military and Train Displays

For those interested in military vehicles or trains, the museum offers dedicated exhibits for both. Visitors have reported that these sections are well curated and add variety to the overall experience. The train tours can be a highlight, though note they are not included in the admission ticket.

The Kid-Friendly Elements

While the focus is clearly on cars, the museum also features exhibits suitable for children, such as themed sets like Mickey Mouse. The layout encourages exploration, and many visitors have enjoyed sharing the experience with kids—though some note that certain rides and attractions like kiddie rides are extra.

The Practicalities of Visiting

The Volo Auto Museum is open Monday through Sunday from 10:00AM to 4:00PM, with last admittance around 4:00PM. This provides some flexibility for planning your day. It’s near public transportation, which is convenient if you’re staying in Chicago and want to avoid driving.

The ticket price of $24.10 includes entry into the main museum, making it a straightforward choice for a day out. But, if you’re hoping for a full experience with rides, special exhibits, or food, be prepared for additional costs. Food and drinks are available to purchase on-site, and kiddie rides or carousel rides are not included in the ticket price.

One of the most useful tips from reviews is to wear comfortable shoes because of the outdoor walking and walking through multiple buildings. Also, plan to spend several hours if you want to see everything comfortably, as there’s a lot to take in.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This museum suits car lovers of all ages, especially those interested in American automotive history and pop culture. It’s also perfect for families with kids who enjoy themed exhibits and photo opportunities. For history buffs, the military and train sections add an extra layer of interest. However, if you’re not particularly into cars or nostalgic Americana, you might find the experience less engaging.

The museum’s size and collection make it ideal for a full-day outing, but those with limited time can still enjoy a well-rounded visit in a few hours. It’s also a fantastic stop if you’re looking for something different from Chicago’s urban attractions, offering a relaxed, outdoor-friendly environment.

Final Thoughts

The Volo Auto Museum offers a genuine and varied look at automobiles, pop culture, and Americana. With its accessible layout and engaging exhibits, it tends to satisfy both dedicated car fans and casual visitors alike. The outdoor elements and themed collections make it a lively, visually interesting place to explore.

While the admission price is reasonable, keep in mind that some extras—rides, certain exhibits, and food—are additional costs. The museum’s size and the variety of exhibits mean you can tailor your visit based on your interests and timeframe, whether you want a quick overview or an in-depth experience.

If you’re in the Chicago area and looking for a fun, different kind of museum experience—especially if cars and pop culture appeal to you—you’re likely to walk away with a few memorable photos and stories.

FAQ

Is the Volo Auto Museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible, though some reviewers note that certain doorways and transitions may be challenging, and wheelchair rentals are limited.

How much does the admission ticket cost?
The standard price is $24.10 per person, which grants entry to the main exhibits. Additional costs apply for rides and special exhibits.

What is the duration of a typical visit?
Visitors usually spend between 1 and 5 hours, depending on their level of interest and whether they explore every exhibit thoroughly.

Are there guided tours available?
No, this ticket grants self-guided access. The layout makes it easy to navigate independently.

Are food and drinks available on-site?
Yes, they can be purchased, but they are not included in the ticket price.

Can children enjoy this museum?
Absolutely. Many exhibits are family-friendly, with themed cars and pop culture displays that appeal to kids and adults alike.

What should I wear for my visit?
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as there is outdoor walking and multiple buildings to explore.

Are there any special exhibits I should know about?
Yes, the Crime & Punishment exhibit is a highlight, and some exhibits may be temporarily off display due to maintenance.

In all, the Volo Auto Museum offers a fun, nostalgic, and educational experience perfect for those interested in the story of cars and Americana. It’s a flexible outing that can be tailored to your pace and interests, making it a worthwhile stop outside Chicago.