National Automobile Museum (The Harrah Collection)

In a state of so many impressive car museums, it can be difficult to stand out. But the National Automobile Museum in Reno does just that. Ranked among the top 16 car museums in the world by AutoWeek magazine and listed in Car Collector magazine’s “Top Ten Museums,” the National Automobile Museum is home to more than 200 rare, classic and special interest vehicles, many of which are from the personal and world-famous collection of the late William “Bill” Fisk Harrah. The museum’s horseless carriage collection is considered to be among the finest in the world.

Car buffs will adore the National Automobile Museum, and not just for its stellar collection of one-of-a-kind, experimental and antique vehicles. The museum features four period streets that represent the four quarters of the 20th century, complete with appropriate vehicles, facades and artifacts representing the moods and styles of the period. Each street also includes a timeline of achievements and events that shares the history and progression of the automobile. Lovers of all things auto can wander the museum at their leisure or enjoy audio tours, docent-led tours and theater presentations.

Even the exterior design of the National Automobile Museumis auto-related. The popular 1950s car paint color known as “Heather Fire Mist” graces its exterior walls, setting the stage for an amazing auto experience before visitors even step in the door.