Who knew that one of the world’s best car museums lived in this warehouse tucked into an industrial area near the Philly airport?

Since opening in 2008, the Simoene Museum has twice received “Best Car Museum in the World.” Originally the collection of Frederick Simeone, a retired neurosurgeon from Philadelphia, it contains one of the best collections of road racing cars in the world. Each of the 70+ cars is important not only for its beauty and historic value, but also because of the races it won. They must also have their original parts and be in working condition.

This leads to one of the best parts of the museum. Because the cars still run, a selection are taken out for a spin around the parking area every other Saturday during Demo Days (specific cars listed on the website). While visitors stand to the side, staff give commentary, and after the run they are parked inside for visitors to examine up close.

If you can’t visit on a Demo Day, the museum is still impressive not only for car fans, but for anyone who appreciates mechanical beauty. They really are beautiful works of art, housed in exhibits highlighting the history of each car and the history of road racing.

Plus, how can you not love a museum that provides electric cars for kids to race around the museum in while their parents enjoy the cars. I’ll admit that I was a bit jealous!

Tip: The museum is only a 10 minute drive from the culinary delights of West Philly (African Food: West Philly). We enjoyed our banh mi parking lot picnic from favorite Fu-Wah while watching the cars.

Tip: Inclement weather (rain, heat) determines whether the cars run outside, so it’s worth a call beforehand if you are visiting specifically for the demos.

https://simeonemuseum.org/