Lane Motor Museum | Nashville

Lane Motor Museum, situated at 702 Murfreesboro Pike in Nashville, Tennessee, is a highly distinctive automotive museum known for its remarkable and diverse collection of vehicles from around the world. Established in 2002 by Jeff and Mary Lane, the museum occupies a spacious 132,000-square-foot former bakery building, which has been thoughtfully converted into a captivating exhibition space that invites visitors to explore over 500 vehicles spanning multiple decades, styles, and countries of origin.

Collection Overview

Lane Motor Museum is particularly celebrated for its emphasis on unique, rare, and unusual vehicles, especially European models rarely seen in the United States. It holds the largest collection of European automobiles and motorcycles in the country, featuring a broad range of marques including Citroën, BMW, Saab, and more obscure brands like Tatra and DKW.

The collection is not limited to standard passenger cars; it also includes:

Microcars: Exceptionally small vehicles like the Peel P50-the smallest production car ever made-are a highlight, showcasing the creativity and engineering solutions for urban transportation in the mid-20th century.

Amphibious Vehicles: Lane Motor Museum features several amphibious cars and trucks capable of operating on land and water, illustrating innovative automotive engineering tailored for specialized functions.

Military and Prototype Vehicles: The museum displays military transports, reconnaissance vehicles, and unique prototypes that reflect experimental approaches to design and technology throughout automotive history.

Alternative Fuel Vehicles: Demonstrating the evolution of environmentally conscious automotive technology, the museum exhibits electric, hybrid, and other alternative-fueled vehicles, reflecting ongoing efforts to innovate sustainable transportation.

Motorcycles: Complementing the car collection, a well-curated selection of motorcycles presents the progression of two-wheeled motorized transport from early models to modern designs.

Exhibits and Thematic Displays

The museum regularly rotates thematic exhibits to provide fresh perspectives and experiences for returning visitors. These curated exhibitions explore various aspects of automotive culture and history. For example:

“Redefining Remnants – The Art of Parts” explores artistic reinterpretations and creative reuse of automobile parts, turning mechanical components into works of art.

“First Person Fantasies – Video Game Cars” features cars from the museum’s collection that have appeared in popular video games, linking digital culture with real-world automotive history.

“Competition Classics – Racing Relics of Bygone Eras” highlights historic race cars and celebrates the heritage of motorsport.

“Station Wagon Style – Family Movers From Around the World” examines the evolution and cultural significance of station wagons globally.

These exhibitions enrich the visitor experience by connecting vehicles to broader cultural, technological, and artistic themes.

Visitor Experience and Programs

Lane Motor Museum is designed to be an engaging and interactive experience. It offers:

Vehicle Demonstrations: From Thursday through Monday at 11:00 AM, select vehicles from the collection are started and sometimes driven in a demonstration to showcase their engineering and operation. These demonstrations allow visitors to hear engines roar and see rare cars come to life.

Vault Tours: On weekends, visitors can join guided tours of the museum’s “Vault,” the storage facility housing hundreds of additional vehicles not currently on display. This exclusive experience reveals a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the museum’s extensive collection.

Educational Programs: The museum hosts educational events, lectures, and special tours tailored to schools, car clubs, and the general public. These programs foster a deeper understanding of automotive history, design, and engineering.

Facilities and Amenities

The museum is fully equipped to welcome visitors with:

A spacious, climate-controlled exhibition hall that facilitates comfortable viewing year-round.

Restroom facilities and accessible accommodations ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.

A well-stocked gift shop offering books, apparel, scale models, and unique automotive memorabilia, providing visitors with opportunities to take home souvenirs and educational materials.

Parking is available on site, with easy access from Murfreesboro Pike, making it convenient for both local and out-of-town visitors.

Hours and Admission

The Lane Motor Museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Monday and Thursday through Sunday. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays as well as major holidays including New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Admission fees are reasonable, with discounts available for seniors, youth, and free entry for children under six and museum members.

Location and Contact

Address: 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, Tennessee 37210

Phone: (615) 742-7445

Summary

Lane Motor Museum stands out as a premier destination for automobile enthusiasts, historians, and casual visitors interested in the breadth and depth of automotive innovation. Its vast and eclectic collection, combined with thoughtful curation and interactive programming, offers an enriching experience that highlights the diversity of vehicle design across cultures and eras. From the smallest microcars to amphibious vehicles and rare European models, the museum celebrates the ingenuity and artistry of automotive engineering, making it a unique cultural asset in Nashville and the wider automotive museum landscape.