Automotive Nirvana in the Capital City

Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed

by Jason Lubken

The Museum of American Speed has been in an exciting state of evolution since opening in 1992. With each following year the collection continues to outgrow itself. What flourished from the personal collection of Bill and Joyce Smith has become a wonderland of American car culture the entire family is invited to experience. 

Locally, it’s been called a hidden gem, but visitors from across the globe come to learn about America’s number one attraction for car lovers only to discover a surprise around every corner. The Museum houses the world’s largest collection of vintage pedal cars, Spindizzy racers, a world class automotive art gallery, and much more. You will find history-making jet-powered land speed cars to the odyssey of the All-American Soap Box Derby. This is America’s story of speed right here in the Midwest.  

Most car enthusiasts will exclaim, “it’s the best Automotive Museum in the world!” But… there’s more. Curator, Tim Matthews says, “it’s really like a collection of collections.” It’s due to more than 30 unique galleries that showcase American History through the lens of the automobile, racing industry, manufacturing, vintage toys, art, music, pop culture, and more.  

From an autographed Elvis Presley guitar, vintage movie posters, to walls covered floor-to-ceiling in collectable lunch boxes, there’s truly something for everyone. You’ll be immersed in 200,000 square feet of display space, across three floors, with help through guided tours or simply exploring at your leisure.

In 2001 the Museum relocated to the Western corner of Lincoln. Shortly after, public hours were expanded, and the Museum saw major growth in volunteerism. Now, with over 60 volunteers, the Museum continues to evolve. It’s host to popular annual events like Cars and Coffee, and the family favorite, LEGO Pit Stop. Every year, families are invited to compete in a Pinewood Derby-style LEGO racing event located inside the Museum. 

The future is exciting! The Museum of American Speed continues to grow with younger generations by hosting educational and family friendly events that engage the local community. In 2024, the Museum works to incorporate more interactive displays, racing simulators, a slot car track, an upgraded LEGO track, public digital archives to enhance the visitors’ experience. The Museum strives to fuel the passion for automotive history, innovation, and technical skills within the future generations to come.