Step Back Into Transportation History at the Hershey Car Museum
As a mom of a 14-year-old car enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that fuel his passion for all things automotive. That’s exactly what led our family to the AACA Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania, also known as the Hershey Car Museum. This incredible museum isn’t just a collection of vintage vehicles—it’s a journey through automotive history, complete with beautifully recreated historic street scenes, hands-on interactive exhibits, and some truly iconic movie cars.
From the moment we stepped inside, we were transported through time, marveling at classic cars showcased in period-accurate settings. But what really caught our attention were the famous film vehicles on display—including the bus from Forrest Gump and the high-speed bus from Speed! Whether you’re a die-hard car lover or just someone who appreciates history and pop culture, this museum has something for everyone.
Interactive Exhibits
One of the highlights of the AACA Museum in Hershey is its interactive exhibits, which bring automotive history to life in a fun and engaging way. Visitors can hop into a Model T for a hands-on experience, exploring what it was like to drive one of the earliest cars on the road. Kids (and kids at heart) will love the driving simulators, where they can test their skills behind the wheel. There’s also a fascinating exhibit that lets you step inside a real Tucker factory scene, showcasing how these rare and innovative cars were built. One of the most unique hands-on experiences is the miniature assembly line, where visitors can build their own model car, getting a glimpse into the intricate process of automobile manufacturing. For bus enthusiasts, the museum’s full-size bus exhibit even allows you to walk through historic transit vehicles. Whether you’re a lifelong car lover or just curious about how automobiles have evolved, these hands-on experiences make the museum an unforgettable stop on your Hershey adventure!
The Tucker
If you’re a fan of automotive history, one of the must-see exhibits at the AACA Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is the Tucker Gallery, dedicated to one of the most innovative and controversial cars of the 20th century—the Tucker 48. During our recent visit to the museum, my 14-year-old car enthusiast was completely captivated by the story of Preston Tucker and his dream to revolutionize the automobile industry.
The History of the Tucker 48
In the late 1940s, Preston Tucker set out to create a “car of the future”—one that was safer, more powerful, and ahead of its time. The Tucker 48, also known as the Tucker Torpedo, featured groundbreaking innovations, including a rear-mounted engine, a third central headlight that turned with the steering wheel, a reinforced safety frame, and a padded dashboard. These features were revolutionary in an era when many cars still lacked seatbelts!
Unfortunately, the Tucker Corporation faced immense legal and financial struggles, largely due to pushback from the established auto industry and government investigations. Only 51 Tucker cars were ever produced before the company was forced to shut down, making them one of the rarest and most sought-after collector cars today. Despite its short-lived production, the Tucker 48 remains a symbol of innovation, ambition, and what could have been.
What You Can See at the Hershey Car Museum
The AACA Museum houses one of the most comprehensive Tucker exhibits in the world, giving visitors an up-close look at these legendary vehicles. The exhibit features three authentic Tucker 48 cars, including one of the original prototypes. You can also explore Tucker engines, original design sketches, and memorabilia, all of which tell the story of Preston Tucker’s ambitious dream.
One of the most interactive parts of the exhibit is the Tucker factory scene, where visitors can step into a recreation of the assembly line, showcasing how these cars were built. My son especially loved seeing the cutaway displays that reveal the innovative mechanics inside the Tucker 48. The museum does a fantastic job of bringing history to life, making it easy to understand why this car was so ahead of its time.
Planning Your Visit
One of the best things about visiting the AACA Museum in Hershey is its fantastic location—it’s just a short five-minute drive from Hersheypark! If you’re already planning a trip to the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” adding a stop at the car museum is an easy and worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Whether you visit before an action-packed day of roller coasters or wind down after indulging in all things chocolate, the museum offers a relaxing and engaging experience for the whole family.
If you’re planning a visit to the AACA Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania, you’ll be happy to know that it’s open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore its impressive collection of classic and historic vehicles. Admission is budget-friendly, with tickets priced at $16 for adults, $14.50 for seniors (61+), and $10 for kids aged 4-12, while little ones under 4 get in for free. Active-duty military members can also enjoy complimentary admission with a valid ID. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, making it easy to plan your trip. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, so be sure to check your calendar before heading out. Whether you’re a die-hard car enthusiast or just looking for a fun family outing, this museum is a must-visit while in Hershey!