National Motor Museum Tours and Activities

Photo provided by National Motor Museum
Photo provided by National Motor Museum
Photo provided by National Motor Museum
Photo provided by National Motor Museum
Photo provided by National Motor Museum


Discover the icons of Australian motoring at this museum, research facility and collection of vintage cars and futuristic vehicles in the Adelaide Hills. 

Admire over 300 pristinely preserved vintage models in this expansive museum in the Adelaide Hills. The National Motor Museum gives an insight into an integral part of Australia’s heritage and modern culture. Australia is a nation of motorsports enthusiasts and when it comes to motor vehicles per capita, it ranks in the top 10 in the world. The National Motor Museum acts as a time capsule, a way to celebrate Down Under’s unique road transport history.

Since its humble beginnings in 1964, the National Motor Museum has expanded to encompass three full pavilions. Take a self-guided tour or consult the museum’s volunteers when you need it.

A good start is the Sunburnt Country: Icons of Australian Motoring exhibition, a permanent fixture and magnificent archive of motoring breakthroughs and achievements. Admire a horseless carriage from 1899 and the legendary 1948 Holden. Also don’t miss the 1908 Talbot, the first car to traverse the vast, deserted continent.

Move on to the 1920s Garage exhibit in a recreated mechanical workshop. You can also find distinctive 1950s cars, an expansive collection of toy and model cars and a Ford Model T chassis.

Visit the museum in April for the Rock and Roll Rendezvous, a fun-filled event showcasing classic 1950s vehicles, fashion and music. Hit the road with hundreds of vintage models and motoring enthusiasts in the Bay to Birdwood community event, held annually on the last Sunday of September.

Getting to the National Motor Museum in Birdwood is part of the experience. Enjoy the scenic 60-minute drive through the rolling hills of the wine region northeast of Adelaide. Parking is available on-site for free. Local buses and taxis also service the area. The museum is open daily, except Christmas Day. Concession tickets and family packages for cheaper entry are available. 

Take advantage of the museum’s free re-entry ticket and have a picnic by the River Torrens or visit a café in downtown Birdwood. Before you leave, browse the museum’s gift shop, aptly situated inside a 1920s gas station.

Plan a trip to see National Motor Museum

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Hotel Alba Adelaide
Adelaide Central Skyline Panoramic Suite
Eos by SkyCity

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Hahndorf Old Mill Motel

Hahndorf Old Mill Motel

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Discovery Parks - Hahndorf

Discovery Parks - Hahndorf

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Stables Boutique Motel

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Novotel Barossa Valley Resort

Novotel Barossa Valley Resort

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Sequoia Lodge - Adults Only

Sequoia Lodge - Adults Only

5 out of 5
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Echo Holiday Parks - Windsor Gardens

Echo Holiday Parks - Windsor Gardens

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Crowne Plaza Adelaide Mawson Lakes by IHG

Crowne Plaza Adelaide Mawson Lakes by IHG

3 out of 5
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Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre by IHG

4 out of 5
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Stamford Plaza Adelaide

Stamford Plaza Adelaide

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near National Motor Museum

At the National Motor Museum in Birdwood, South Australia, visitors can explore fascinating motorcycle museums and enjoy guided tours of the impressive collection. Nearby, you can unwind at local spas or indulge in some retail therapy while exploring holiday parks for a relaxing stay. It's a great spot for a day trip, offering a cool place to immerse yourself in automotive history and culture.

Shopping

For a unique shopping experience, visit the Udder Delights Cheese Cellar, where you can find delightful local cheeses. If you're up for a drive, Tea Tree Plaza offers a larger shopping mall atmosphere 24.1km away, while Stirling Markets, 30.6km away, is perfect for local crafts and food.

Recreation

Explore Para Wirra Conservation Park, a serene spot 19.3km from the National Motor Museum, perfect for relaxation and nature walks. Alternatively, enjoy the outdoor sporting vibes at Mount Lofty Golf Club, located 27.4km away, or unwind at Roachdale Reserve, just 9.7km away, a peaceful recreation park.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Andersoon Loop Trailhead, located 9.7km from the National Motor Museum, where adventure and stunning scenery await. The Kenton Valley Ambience Walk Trailhead, 11.3km away, offers a scenic hike, while the Old Kersbrook Loop Trail, 12.9km distant, immerses you in nature's beauty.

Nightlife

Experience a vibrant nightlife near the National Motor Museum with a visit to the Adelaide Festival Centre for captivating performances, or enjoy a fun-filled evening at The Beachhouse arcade. For a theatrical treat, Her Majesty's Theater offers a stunning cultural experience, perfect for families and couples alike.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near National Motor Museum

The National Motor Museum in Birdwood, South Australia, offers a thrilling experience for car enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Surrounding the museum, you can explore local reserves and urban parks, perfect for enjoying the outdoors and scenic views. Don't miss the chance to read reviews of the museum and discover its fascinating automobile exhibits, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique experience in the region.

  • Big Rocking Horse: Standing proudly 6.4km from the National Motor Museum, the Big Rocking Horse is a whimsical, iconic landmark that embodies local culture. This giant structure offers an array of attractions, including a toy factory and a cafe, making it a delightful stop for families and tourists alike.
  • Warren Conservation Park: Located 11.3km away, Warren Conservation Park is a serene escape featuring picturesque scenery and a welcoming atmosphere. Ideal for leisurely walks or romantic picnics, this reserve is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the outdoors.
  • Whispering Wall: Just 16.4km from the museum, the Whispering Wall is a fascinating dam known for its unique acoustics. Visitors can whisper at one end and be heard clearly at the other, amid beautiful surroundings, making it a fun and memorable experience.

Best time to go to National Motor Museum

The best time to visit National Motor Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January71.4°F (21.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
February70.5°F (21.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
March67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
August52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.5°F (15.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
November63.9°F (17.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
December67.8°F (19.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Motor Museum

To save money on your visit to the National Motor Museum, consider travelling during the off-peak months of June to August, when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to book your stay for a Monday, the cheapest day, and avoid Saturdays for better rates. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and eco-certification for sustainable options. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into one package deal can further reduce expenses. Always sort by the lowest price to find the best deals available.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Motor Museum are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around National Motor Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around National Motor Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some cash by combining your hotel stay near the National Motor Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.