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Museums

Stahls Motors and Music Experience

4.9 · 764 reviews
Quiet, nostalgic, and meticulously curated.
Stahls Motors and Music Experience, 56516 N Bay Dr, New Baltimore, MI 48051, United States
Interesting facts
1

The collection includes the rare 1913 Mercer Type 35-J Raceabout, often considered one of the first true sports cars.

2

The museum features a massive Wurlitzer band organ that remains functional and is frequently demonstrated for visitors.

3

Many vehicles in the collection are driven periodically to ensure mechanical preservation.

4

The facility houses one of the largest collections of vintage neon signs and petroliana related to automotive history in the Midwest.

5

The museum building was purpose-built to store and display the collection, allowing for climate-controlled preservation.

Overview

Stahls Auto Museum houses a private collection of rare vintage automobiles, primarily focusing on the Brass Era and early 20th-century American engineering. The facility is noted for integrating a significant collection of self-playing musical instruments, including automated accordions and player pianos, into the gallery space. The collection features over 80 vehicles, with many maintained in operating condition for private events and public tours. Exhibits highlight technological milestones such as early gasoline-powered engines and pre-war luxury design. The museum is located in New Baltimore, Michigan, near the shores of Lake St. Clair. The facility is operated by the Stahl family and emphasizes the intersection of mechanical history and musical innovation.

Photo spot

The central display area where the collection of vintage musical instruments is positioned alongside the most pristine early 1900s automobiles.

Insider tips

Check the official website for 'Open House' dates, as the museum has limited public operating hours compared to standard commercial venues.

Inquire about guided tour schedules, as the docents provide deep technical context on the musical instruments.

Combine the visit with a drive along the nearby Lake St. Clair waterfront for scenic views.

What to avoid

Do not show up without checking the calendar, as the museum is not open for walk-ins daily and requires scheduled appointments or event dates.

Good to know

The museum operates on a limited schedule, often requiring advance booking or specifically announced open dates; it is not a traditional daily-entry tourist attraction.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful distance from the vintage automobiles and refrain from touching the paint or polished chrome.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings during spring or autumn for smaller crowds and a more focused experience with the museum docents.
Address
Stahls Motors and Music Experience, 56516 N Bay Dr, New Baltimore, MI 48051, United States
42.718, -82.805
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits1913 Mercer Raceabout, Wurlitzer Band Organs, Brass Era automobiles.
Collection focusPre-war automotive engineering and automated mechanical musical instruments.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings during spring or autumn for smaller crowds and a more focused experience with the museum docents..

The central display area where the collection of vintage musical instruments is positioned alongside the most pristine early 1900s automobiles.

Close by you'll find Walter & Mary Burke Park, Brandenburg Park, Maynard "Red" Aurand Memorial Park.

United States of America

About Sterling Heights, Michigan