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    Stahl's Automotive Museum

    4.9 (19 reviews)
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    Kevin J.

    I heard about this museum a few years ago when my parents, my Uncle Bob and I forget who else went. They praised it but it was tough for me to believe some incredible car museum would be out in Chesterfield Township. Then someone hipped me to the Roush Automotive Collection in Livonia which exceeded my expectations. A couple of years later a guy I follow on Instagram raves about Stahls Automotive Foundation and it's priority for a visit increases. Well, I finally made it out to this cavernous warehouse near 26 Mile and Gratiot and it was so incredible I already went back for a second visit about a month later. Getting there was a bit of a challenge as there's a sprawling construction project in the office/industrial park subdivision Stahls is in and I had to backtrack all the way back to about 25 Mile and practically crawl along one way, one lane streets when Stahls is just a stone's throw from 26 Mile. No matter though. Hell, one reviewer was talking about driving 2 and a half hours to get here and it being worth it. The entrance room is filled with automated musical machines, a player banjo and such. Lots of old timey artifacts are in these cozy confines. There's also a donation box here as Stahls is just pay what you wanna. I threw in a fiver as I was by my lonesome and times are tough right now but it seemed like everyone else was throwing down with Mr. Andrew Jackson in there. And this place is worth it. The main room is expansive and impressive, row after row of gleaming antique automobiles of all shapes, sizes and eras, around a hundred in all. They have more in storage and sometimes rotate em in and out and around. The perfect replica Delorean from Back to the Future, complete with flux capacitor and Mr. Fusion, was in a different place on my second visit, parked by a giant circus music machine. There's at least three of those. I'm not sure which one if any was responsible for the pipe organ music - Henry Mancini's Pink Panther and other songs - merrily wafting through this marvelous museum but the pipes can be seen upstairs to the rear. Most every vehicle has a card with pertinent information on it, make, year, history, price then and price adjusted for inflation now which I really appreciated. There's plenty of dark shirted docents around, too. They're very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. It seems like they're all just car guys who consider it a pleasure to hang out with such an incredible collection and shoot the breeze. They answered a couple questions for me and one even came back later with more information he had gleaned. Stahls is only open Tuesday afternoons from 1 to 4 and the occasional Thursday evening for neon night where I was promised the only light was from the museum's extensive collection of vintage neon signs and old school gas pumps. I came back for that and they cheated a little. There were two large bright overhead lights in a couple corners left on. I wanted to be like that Kylo Ren meme yelling DARKER! DARKER!! but it was still pretty dim through much of the museum and with lots of older folks congregating here, some probably with not the best eyesight I have to begrudgingly acknowledge they can probably only make it so dark. I need to see the Steve McQueen movie The Reivers as they have a bright yellow car from it here. I'll probably pass on seeing Chitty Chitty Bang Bang or Tucker again but there's autos from those movies, too. There's also an Ed "Big Daddy" Roth hot rod I'm pretty sure I've seen at Autorama here. On my first visit there were some fun Halloween decorations scattered around. I assume they put up Christmas decorations, too, but they weren't yet up on Neon Night in early November. I appreciate that, too. The Holiday season shouldn't start til Thanksgiving! There's no presidential limos here unlike the couple they have at the Henry Ford Museum but apart from that I almost feel like the collection here could hang with the one there - and it's a donation only museum randomly out in exurbia! Stahls is truly amazing. You can easily while away a couple hours here. I think I'm gonna play that Moody Blues song Tuesday Afternoon and post a second set of photos from here.

    Erin K.

    My husband and I have been trying to get here for years and I am so glad we finally made it. You too need to get here, but don't wait years like we did. The museum is much more than a automotive museum. The first room you enter is filled with music machines. They are all gorgeous just to look at and we were both surprised to hear that every piece works. We watched about seven pieces while we were there. It was so incredible I could not imagine the automotive section could hold a candle. However, when you enter that portion of the museum and see the vast size of it, it is awe inspiring and even if you aren't into cars (like us) you will still find it amazing. One thing that makes the museum so great are all of the docents. I have never seen so many in a museum and they are all incredibly knowledgeable. Anytime we looked at something and asked each other a question out loud, a docent was nearby to answer our question and provide even more insight on the piece and the museum as a whole. They were incredible. Another wonderful aspect of the museum is the huge theater organ that was played by a young man in the automotive area. It was really something to hear him play and hear what he had to say about the incredible instrument. The museum is a true hidden gem.

    Kathryn L.

    As a non-automotive buff, I accompanied my husband on this day trip to be a supportive spouse, believing that only he would be the one having a great time - I was wrong! I found it to be fun and fascinating! Tucked inside what looks like an office complex is this hidden gem featuring this amazing collection of automobiles and automated music machines. The auto collection contains nearly 100 perfectly restored vehicles ranging from the late 1800s through the 1960s. Each vehicle offers an informational placard and a large number of very friendly and helpful docents throughout the collection are there to answer questions, making the visit even more fun and educational. The collection of automated music machines viewed upon entry was not only fascinating but also served to entertain during our visit, with occasional "performances" throughout the afternoon. This is indeed a hidden gem and definitely worth the 2.5-hour drive (each way) for us to spend the afternoon amongst these beautiful machines. Their days and hours of operation are limited and (free) tickets must be reserved ahead of time. I don't know if this policy is COVID-related, but I'd definitely check before planning your visit. It was indeed, lots of fun!

    2000 Whoville Family Sedan
    Kent M.

    After reading an article in my local newspaper, The Macomb Daily, I planned to attend a special opening for Veteran's Day this year. Since I had never heard of this particular museum, I expected a trickle of military vets at a sparsely occupied barn of sorts out in the country. I couldn't have been more off target. Set in an industrial park west of Gratiot Avenue and south of 26 Mile Road, they have a modern building that would make for a great factory location. When I arrived, outdoors there were a few military vehicles on display from the Army's Tank and Automotive Command, as well as the local Arsenal of Democracy Museum a few miles away. They had valet parking available, but I chose to park my old pick-up a few blocks away and walk in. Yes, it was that well-attended that many parked up the streets for blocks around. I met up with a Seabee buddy of mine in the afternoon and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. As we toured the museum, I saw cars whose names I had only heard of, but had never seen. All of the antique cars were well displayed and I was always able to poke my head inside and look-but-don't-touch. Many had the hood up, or perhaps in the case of split engine covers, one side would be open. A nice addition to the interior - some of the levers and driver controls had the placement of tags describing what function the particular control performed. I didn't take many pictures on my 1st visit, as there were hundreds of visitors which made it difficult to take a clean shot. Another feature to this museum is the many music boxes and such on display. While we were in the main part of the museum, we were delightfully entertained by a gentleman who sat down at the organ console and played a patriotic medley of military songs and other nationalistic tunes especially appropriate on a federal holiday. Admission on that day was by free-will donation and all proceeds went to a local charitable organization. The museum is only open on Tuesdays and one Saturday per month. This is a great museum for anyone who has an interest in automobiles of the past. As a side note, outside of two vehicles made for movies, I don't recall any car on display that was newer than the mid 1960's. This is a museum that I highly recommend!

    1860's Stagecoach, seats 12 people with a uniquely designed floating leather strap suspension that allowed for a softer ride.

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    2 years ago

    An incredible museum with many rare one-of-a-kind cars. It was a very enjoyable and educational experience.

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    3 years ago

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    4 years ago

    This is a great car collection. Much to see, musical instruments, automobiles, gas pumps, signage, etc. Great staff and Docents as well!

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    7 years ago

    Cool place!!! The cars are rare and noteworthy. The orchesrions amazing! Knowledgeable docents and preservationists. GO!! Hidden gem!

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    8 years ago

    Great tour! Wonderful collection of mechanical history! Amazing cars, organs, and more! Great Docent, too!

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    Review Highlights - Stahl's Automotive Museum

    Hidden gem full of unique vintage cars, gas pumps, mechanical music machines and general Americana.

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    Sparks Pinball Museum Arcade & Bar

    Sparks Pinball Museum Arcade & Bar

    4.4
    (14 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    Super fun. Wasn't expecting straight-up joy from a "museum" but it was a hit for me, my teen and my…read more92-year-old dad. Lots of machines to choose from, with descriptors and convenient cup holders. Our only caveat, according to my 13yo: "They should have a more advanced card-to-coin machine or card readers on the pinball machines." Agreed--tho it wld put a crimp in the old-timely mystique. I rarely carry cash and I didn't see anywhere in advance (maybe I missed it?) that I needed singles or fives instead of a credit card to get quarters... So come prepared. They do have an ATM machine. (I don't have an ATM card these days, and my debit card wouldn't work.) Next time we'll bring the jingle. PS: There are a few pool tables, too--quarters only.

    i used to frequent Sparks about a decade ago -- then i fazed out of pinball a bit and moved out of…read morethe area (i mean.. only 20ish miles, but still. i'm a pud.) i recently went back with my renewed love of pinball and had a good time ... for the most part. some of the machines were quick to gulp up quarters (note: put one in at a time and make sure it registers), a few were beat up to the point of being pretty unplayable, a good number have ZERO ball save which is rough on newcomers... i was kind of bummed in a sense. especially considering the owner of these machines (who's a great guy, don't get me wrong) claims to enjoy fixing them up more than playing them. well, i play 'em, and so you know... some are a bit wonky! truly, that can be part of the fun and mystique of pinball though -- except the eating quarters thing. fuck that. anyway my favorite part about Sparks now is that Mike has a slew of new Stern pins that are Insider Connected, so you can track your progress -- i'm always a fan of that. plus, the truth is, newer really is better in the world of pinball. i've always loved many machines from the late 80s and throughout the 90s, but most of the new machines being put out now are just incredible and i appreciate Sparks having about 8 machines from 2015ish to today. all in all, i enjoy it here, and it wouldn't feel quite right without dropping $6 for a 32oz draft of labatt poured into a haggard and microplastic ladened mug. which reminds me -- a drink and a half. that's the sweet spot for getting loose and doing well on a machine. happy pinning!

    Photos
    Sparks Pinball Museum Arcade & Bar
    Major Magic himself!
    Major Magic himself!
    The latest and greatest. It's actually an excellent game.

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    The latest and greatest. It's actually an excellent game.
    Outdoor Adventure Center

    Outdoor Adventure Center

    4.4
    (66 reviews)
    28.9 mi

    I see the staff say good morning every morning on the news and finally got to visit on a field…read moretrip. I was with the littles, young elementary school aged kids, and they absolutely had the best time. This place was adorable, packed with so much for young kids to touch, see, experience, play with and play on and we were able to get through and do most of it. They loved the tree, the camp site, the plane, the kitchen, the waterfall area, the bunk beds, the fish, and fishing simulation, the driving simulations, this was a magical place for them. Since we had limited time and a big group, I did not get a chance to try the driving experiences, but it is only $5 admission. The only thing I wish they would have as a parent, and maybe this feasible for them would be to have a cafeteria where they actually sold food and drinks. You have to bring your own food and if you have a water bottle, they put it away for you since nothing is allowed on the attractions.

    This is a great place to bring a toddler to pre-teen age to spend an hour or two. There are enough…read moreactivities from pretend camping to a real airplane kids can explore inside. Even I like the small plane, it really makes you wonder how pilots can remember all the buttons and knobs. The waterfall was nice to add an outdoor touch to things. They had a ATV and a snowmobile to pretend 'drive'. Lots of sensory items to touch and see. I'll be bringing my granddaughter back.

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    Outdoor Adventure Center
    Outdoor Adventure Center
    Outdoor Adventure Center
    Outdoor Adventure Center

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    Outdoor Adventure Center
    Michigan Science Center

    Michigan Science Center

    3.8
    (107 reviews)
    28.1 mi

    I brought my almost 4 year old granddaughter here recently. They have a toddler area and a Kids…read moreTown area. The Kids Town area was her favorite with water activities and some interactive exhibits. The toddler area was ok, with some large building blocks and a few other things that she enjoyed. The motion gallery and several exhibits were non-functioning, but for a 4 year old it didn't matter, but it would to older kids. The colorful escalator, the numbers hopscotch and even the small scale Mackinac Bridge were a hit. She LOVED the science show with the gases, fire and exploding balloons although she covered her ears for the 'booms'. Pricing is outrageous I think - $69 for 2 adults and a toddler. What?! I can go to the Outdoor Adventure Center for $5 a head (senior price), and $5 for her. The Nature Center on Belle Isle is FREE. Parking is free but limited, I got the last spot, my bf who met me there had to find street parking. The gift shop was nice and of course on the way out so we ended up with a stuffed animal and some mystery sand adding another $20 to my bill, so $89 for a 2.5 hour visit. OUCH.

    What an awesome museum for kids to explore and learn! We had free tickets to come visit and check…read morethis place out and we were not disappointed. The kids were free because they are 2 as well. The parking in the lot next to it was $8 and its gated so it felt really safe. They have a ramp if you have a stroller. They offer stroller parking too. We walked around the main floor and checked out the exhibits. Then we went to the lower level and played in the kids area. The kids loved it. They do clean 12:30pm to 1:00pm. We were able to play for an hour. They loved the water section. There was dancing fruit in one of the rooms and my son was dancing a lot. Another room had soccer balls that he was throwing. They had a pretend kitchen area and a seated area with magnetic blocks. My kids did not want to leave. When we walked out they had a demonstration at the science stage at 12:30pm about fire. That was really cool. They also have IMAX theatre shows. We did not want to participate in that because our kids would just scream. We did go to the dinosaur exhibit on the third floor as well. Overall, it is a nice, clean, and fun museum for kids. We will definitely be back!

    Photos
    Exterior of the science center.
    Exterior of the science center.
    Michigan Science Center
    Michigan Science Center

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    Edsel & Eleanor Ford House

    Edsel & Eleanor Ford House

    4.5
    (87 reviews)
    18.5 mi

    This place was awesome. I had never visited before, but my husband and I took a tour today of the…read moremain house. Tours are $20 and you're welcome to walk the grounds after, plus stop by the Playhouse (tiny house that was for the Ford's 7-year-old granddaughter) and the garage, where five antique vehicles are housed. The tour lasts an hour, our tour guide was Dan and he was great. My husband works for Ford so I thought he'd find the tour interesting, too. There's another tour, called Nooks and Crannies, that dives deeper into the house and it's history, and I'd like to take that one next. The grounds themselves are beautiful and there is a lot to see, including the displays in the Visitors Center, Bird Island, and the places I mentioned above. The Visitors Center also has a gift shop. I've heard they do concerts here in the summer, and I saw on Instagram that they will have a butterfly house, too, so I'll have to come back another time for that. Overall, I really enjoyed Ford House and hope to come back for the other tour at some point too.

    Gilded The Edsel…read moreand Eleanor Ford House is, on the surface, a spectacular estate.The architecture--a refined lakeside Cotswold-style manor--is stunning. The grounds are immaculate. And yet, the overall experience left me with one word: tacky. Not tacky in the sense of bad taste, but tacky in the way a museum can be when it doesn't trust its audience. The message throughout is clear: Please, middle class, come see how the well-to-do lived--but on our terms, at our pace, behind our ropes. You arrive, eager to explore, only to find the doors locked until a specific tour time. So you wait. Outside. Like a guest at a party no one's ready to let you into. Once inside, you're sorted: self-guided vs. those who paid more for a guided tour. I could only imagine if a self-guided were to stand close and eavesdrop! Then come the barriers. Physical and psychological. You can see how the ultra-rich lived, but do not step deep into most rooms. Velvet ropes whisper stay back. Much of the art has been replaced with copies--originals long ago donated to the DIA (how generous, but also how convenient for security). Even the books are brazenly zip-tied together, presumably to deter mischief or theft. A low point? The kitchen. There, plastic, shiny faux-food--maybe straight from Target's preschool toy aisle--sits arranged to show what a prep area might have looked like. A plastic ham! A plastic cake! Oh, in a prep area! You crane your neck into an ahead-of-its-time bathroom like a zoo visitor spotting a rare animal. Yes, this very bathroom. The one someone used. Then you learn it wasn't ahead-of-its-time bathroom--this was what wealth bought for you! There's the playhouse--charming, yes, with electricity. Oh, it's a house. The Ford's philanthropy, parenting, and perfection are woven into every communication: nannies were present, but they were involved. Citizens, yes. Philanthropists, absolutely. Divine beings, apparently. The whole thing feels less like history and more like hagiography--a shrine to benevolent gods who once walked among us, now preserved in amber and zip ties. Verdict: Tacky. See it on your own if you must, but honestly, try an online tour first. It probably has more dimension, access, and interesting details than what you'll get on foot.

    Photos
    Next to the entrance. Adult trick or treat at the house and a party after.
    Next to the entrance. Adult trick or treat at the house and a party after.
    Diego Rivera
    Diego Rivera
    In the kitchen of the house

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    In the kitchen of the house
    General Motors Heritage Center

    General Motors Heritage Center

    4.2
    (5 reviews)
    16.4 mi

    Located in a nondescript warehouse on a side street off Mound road, you will find one of the most…read moreimpressive collections of GM vehicles anywhere in the world if you know where to look. The only clue as to what is inside in a small sign in the lawn emblazoned with the GM logo - which I suspect is deliberate to throw off snoopers. If you love automobiles, the GM Heritage Center is a bucket list worthy destination. A rotating collection of over 700 historic, groundbreaking and innovative vehicles are on display here. Over 160 vehicles are on display at any given time and vehicles are swapped out several times a year I'm told. Chevrolet, Pontiac, Cadillac, Oldsmobile, Buick, GMC and even Holden were represented here during my visit. There is also a nice collection of historical memorabilia from GM Design as well as a lot of historically significant engines on display. There is no touching or sitting but, you can get right up and peek in the windows of most cars - no velvet ropes! As the name suggests, this isn't a museum but a private collection. As such, the collection isn't open to the general public but it is able to be reserved for groups. It's surprisingly affordable when you consider that what's in the collection cannot be seen anywhere else, ever - and is probably easily valued in excess of 100 million dollars. No rambling review I could write would ever be able to do this place justice so, just do yourself a favor and get a group together and come down here. If you need a +1 hit me up, I'd go back again in a second!

    A place in dream for car lovers!…read more GM opens it for employee for free once a year, and they can bring in family and friends. If you have friends work for GM, let them remember to bring you in for the open house. Many of the cars display here are priceless. You can see the cars GM build from 1902! Some of the cars you may rarely see in the US as well. Many concept cars GM developed in the past. Very interesting place. They also have a section with all sorts of engine displayed. Posters from the past. Great place for a family trip.

    Photos
    Displays are constantly changing at the museum, and these early 1900s GM makes at always a favorite. Every era of GMs history is represented
    Displays are constantly changing at the museum, and these early 1900s GM makes at always a favorite. Every era of GMs history is represented
    If you are a General Motors aficionado, this museum is a must see. It is semi-private and you have form a group to get in, but worth it!
    If you are a General Motors aficionado, this museum is a must see. It is semi-private and you have form a group to get in, but worth it!
    The museum features one-off and prototype cars nobody else has.  The employees take pride in this unique, dynamic automotive display center.

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    The museum features one-off and prototype cars nobody else has. The employees take pride in this unique, dynamic automotive display center.

    Stahl's Automotive Museum - museums - Updated July 2026

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