Three-level museum featuring historic carriages, classic automobiles, and military vehicles that trace the evolution of American transportation and craftsmanship.
General Information
Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
Closed New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day
Seniors (60+): $9.50
Students (6–17): $7.00
Children 5 and under: Free
Museum Members: Free
Museums for All (with EBT and ID): Free for up to 4 guests
How to Get There
From downtown South Bend, head west on Washington Street, turn left onto Chapin Street, and the museum will be on your right just past Thomas Street.
Overview
The Studebaker National Museum offers a captivating journey through over a century of American innovation in transportation. Located in South Bend, Indiana, the museum houses a remarkable collection of vehicles, including the world’s largest assemblage of U.S. presidential carriages—among them the barouche that carried Abraham Lincoln to Ford’s Theatre. Visitors can explore more than 120 vehicles, from Conestoga wagons and early electric cars to sleek Studebaker sedans and military transport vehicles. The museum’s three floors are thoughtfully curated to showcase the evolution of design, engineering, and cultural impact of the Studebaker legacy.
Founded on the original donation of 33 vehicles from the Studebaker Corporation in 1966, the museum has grown into a dynamic institution that preserves not only automobiles but also the stories behind them. Rotating exhibits highlight everything from women’s roles in automotive history to the architectural legacy of Studebaker buildings. With interactive displays, educational programming, and a strong connection to local heritage, the Studebaker National Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, car enthusiasts, and families alike.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Studebaker National Museum, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
