Visiting Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks
Wondering if the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks is worth visiting? We’ve been there, and the answer is an absolute yes! In this article, we’ll share our photos and give you insider tips on planning your visit. From the stunning vintage car collection to the elegant historic fashion displays, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of this unique Alaskan experience.
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Why is the Antique Auto Museum a Must-Visit for Vintage Automobile Enthusiasts?
When planning your trip to Fairbanks, be sure to include a stop at this remarkable museum. This hidden gem offers a unique journey into the past. You’ll find over 80 meticulously restored vintage cars and a stunning collection of historic fashion.
Located in the heart of Fairbanks, this museum isn’t just for car lovers—it’s a must-see for anyone interested in history or culture.
Chris and I had a great time exploring the exhibits. Chris focused on the details of the vintage cars, while I was captivated by the beautifully preserved women’s dresses.
It’s one of the best Fairbanks museums, next to the Museum of the North, Morris Thomson Cultural Center, and Aurora Ice Museum (the last one is at Chena Hot Springs resort, 60 miles from Fairbanks).
The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum boasts the largest collection of vintage automobiles in Alaska. For those who love old vehicles and want to explore even more, the Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry in Wasilla offers a broader range of exhibits, including trains and other industrial vehicles, providing a more extensive look into Alaska’s transportation history.
Getting to Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks
The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is located at 212 Wedgewood Drive in Fairbanks, Alaska.
If you’re driving, the museum is easily accessible from major roads. From Fairbanks downtown, take the Johansen Expressway and exit onto College Road. Drive for about 1.2 miles before turning right onto Margaret Avenue. Then, take the first right onto Wedgewood Drive and follow the signs to the museum. Parking is free and plentiful, with designated spots for vintage car groups.
For those using public transport, the MACS Transit system in Fairbanks provides bus services close to the museum. The College Road route is the nearest stop, which is just a short walk from the entrance. The College Road route is serviced by the Blue Line.
If you plan to rent a car, we highly recommend Alaska Auto Rental, the local Fairbanks company. Check out their website.
Opening Hours and Admission Fee
The museum operates year-round, but its hours and visitor experience can vary by season. The best idea is to check the official museum website for updates.
- From May to mid-September, the museum is open seven days a week, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- In winter, from mid-September through April, the museum is open on Wednesdays and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Entrance Fee
Visiting the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is an affordable and enriching experience. General Admission is:
- Adults (Ages 13 and above): $20
- Children (Ages 6 to 12): $10
- Children (Ages 5 and under): Free
Accessibility and Amenities
The museum is fully wheelchair accessible. All public areas, including exhibit spaces, restrooms, and entrances, are designed to accommodate visitors using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
Amenities
- Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available, including accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities.
- Gift Shop: The museum has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, including vintage-style hats, books, and other memorabilia related to the museum’s collections.
- Photography: Visitors are welcome to take photos inside the museum. However, tripods and professional photography equipment may require prior permission.
Exploring the Antique Auto Collection
The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks offers an extraordinary collection of vintage automobiles, making it a top destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The collection spans from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, showcasing some of the most iconic and rare vehicles from America’s automotive history.
A Journey Through Time
The museum features over 80 meticulously restored automobiles, each with its own unique story. As you explore the collection, you’ll encounter cars from as early as 1898, including the Hay Motor Vehicle, a rare gem that marks the beginning of the automotive era.
The collection also includes other noteworthy vehicles like the 1906 Compound and the 1921 Heine-Velox Victoria—models that represent the innovation and craftsmanship of their time.
Spotlight on Rare and Unique Automobiles
One of the highlights of the museum is the 1936 Packard 1408 series dual windshield Phaeton, a car that exemplifies luxury and elegance from the pre-war era.
The collection also includes several one-of-a-kind vehicles, such as a 1920 Argonne and a 1909 International Harvester high-wheeler, which offer a glimpse into the diverse design and engineering approaches of the early 20th century.
The Restoration Process
What sets the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum apart is not just the rarity of its collection, but the impeccable restoration work that has gone into each vehicle. The museum prides itself on maintaining the operational condition of its cars, with nearly all of them being fully functional.
This commitment to preservation allows visitors to appreciate these automobiles as they were meant to be seen—on the move.
Hands-On Exhibits and Interactive Displays
In addition to the static displays, the museum offers interactive exhibits that bring the history of these vehicles to life.
You can explore the technology behind these early automobiles, learn about the challenges faced by early motorists in Alaska, and even see some of the cars in action during special events or demonstrations.
Vintage Fashion Collection at Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
The museum’s vintage fashion collection features over 1,000 pieces of clothing and accessories from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. These include everything from silk bustle dresses and motoring dusters to flapper dresses and dapper tuxedos.
The collection highlights the elegance and style of different eras, giving visitors a sense of how people dressed when these classic cars were first on the road.
Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or just curious about history, the vintage fashion collection at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum offers something special. The beautifully preserved garments, paired with the stunning vintage cars, create an immersive experience that transports you back in time.
Visiting the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is one of the best things to do in Fairbanks.
Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum: Conclusion
A visit to the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks offers a unique and enriching experience that combines the beauty of vintage automobiles with the elegance of historic fashion.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a history buff, or someone who appreciates the finer details of the past, this museum has something to captivate your interest.
So, whether you’re crafting your Fairbanks itinerary or just looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, make sure to include the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. You won’t be disappointed!
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