The moment visitors step inside the Newport Car Museum, it’s clear this isn’t a quiet stroll through automotive history. A bright red 1989 Lamborghini Countach spins on a turntable against a vivid green backdrop, setting the tone for a museum that treats cars as both engineering feats and works of art.
That bold approach paid off in a big way in 2025. Attendance climbed more than 10%, surpassing 60,000 visitors, while the museum earned its fourth Tripadvisor recognition as one of the top 10% of attractions worldwide and its first-ever Yelp “Beloved Business” designation. As 2026 gets underway, the momentum is only building.
The museum recently completed a near-total upgrade of theatrical lighting across all seven galleries, sharpening the presentation of its private collection of more than 100 cars, all displayed at once. It also expanded popular offerings like the Private Early Bird Tour and launched a TikTok channel to connect with younger audiences who are traveling long distances for the experience.
Visitors come from across the country and as far as Europe, Canada, and New Zealand to explore galleries dedicated to World Cars, Porsches, Ford and Shelby models, Corvettes, Fin Cars, Mopar, and American Muscle. The vehicles span decades, from a 1954 Kaiser Darrin to a 2021 Mustang Shelby GT500KR, all showcased in a colorful, immersive space roughly the size of an NFL football field.
“Literally every corner has something that makes you stop and stare,” said Gerry Dufault of Somerset, Massachusetts, during a recent visit. “Every one of them is a work of art. These cars weren’t built in a week. They’re the result of years of engineering.”
Beyond the cars themselves, the museum leans into storytelling. Unobstructed displays allow visitors to see interiors up close, while videos, commissioned artwork, music, and Mid-Century Modern furnishings add cultural context. A replica of the 1886 Mercedes-Benz Patent Motorwagen nods to automotive origins, while a classic Little Tikes Cozy Coupe offers a playful, multi-generational contrast.
Special events keep the calendar packed, from monthly Hoods Up! Weekends to Father’s Day celebrations, car talks, cruise-ins, and themed showcases. Recent additions, including a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing and a Tesla Cyberbeast, ensure the collection stays fresh.
“All signs point to a very good year behind us and an even better one ahead,” said head docent Vincent Moretti. For hours, tickets, and upcoming events, visit the Newport Car Museum online at NewportCarMuseum.org.
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