Gilmore Car Museum Hosts Chrysler Centennial Celebration

Chrysler is officially 100, and the celebration continues in Hickory Corners, Michigan, as the Gilmore Car Museum partners with the iconic American brand for a once-in-a-lifetime event. From July 30 to August 2, the museum’s sprawling 90-acre campus will transform into a living timeline of Chrysler history, giving car enthusiasts and families the ultimate way to celebrate a century of innovation, style, and engineering excellence.

The Gilmore Car Museum, known as North America’s largest auto museum, is already a dream destination for gearheads and history buffs alike. But this weekend, it’s going all out to spotlight Chrysler’s legacy, with historic vehicles, vintage rides, exclusive exhibits, and hands-on experiences that put visitors right in the middle of a century of automotive evolution.

A Cruise-In Kickoff to Remember –

The festivities began on Wednesday, July 30, with a special edition of the museum’s popular Wednesday Night Cruise-In, serving as the official Chrysler 100th Anniversary kickoff party. Attendees saw ultra-rare Chrysler classics spanning multiple eras, many of which rarely leave private collections. 

Ride Through Chrysler History –

On July 31 and August 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the museum will offer Vintage Vehicle Rides that allow guests to literally step back in time. This isn’t just looking at the past — it’s riding in it. Museum staff and volunteers will chauffeur visitors in legendary Chrysler models like the 1932 De Soto, 1938 Chrysler Royal, and the charming 1981 Chrysler LeBaron Town & Country wood-paneled wagon. These rides offer an unforgettable way to experience automotive history, with the sights, sounds, and smells of the vehicles that defined decades of American roads.

The Red Barns Spectacular — Chrysler Takes Center Stage – 

The grand finale hits on Saturday, August 2, with the Red Barns Spectacular, the museum’s biggest car show of the year. This year, Chrysler is in the spotlight, featuring a jaw-dropping lineup that spans the brand’s century of innovation. Among the highlights:

• 1924 Chrysler Six — The very first Chrysler, the car that started it all

• 1934 Chrysler Airflow — A groundbreaking design that changed aerodynamics forever

• 1948 Chrysler Town & Country — Classic American woodie elegance

• 1955 Chrysler 300 — The original “Letter Car” that ignited the performance era

• 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car — One of only nine known survivors, a futuristic icon of engineering

• 1995 Chrysler Atlantic Concept — The Atlantic was designed by Bob Hubbach and inspired by the Bugatti Atlantique

“This isn’t just a car show — it’s a full-throttle tribute to 100 years of Chrysler’s legacy,” said Nick LaCasse, Executive Director of the Gilmore Car Museum. “From early engineering breakthroughs to futuristic concepts like the Turbine Car, this event captures the spirit of innovation that defines Chrysler.”

A Century of Innovation – 

Chrysler’s first 100 years have been defined by bold ideas and iconic vehicles, from the engineering marvel of the original Chrysler Six to muscle cars, luxury cruisers, and forward-thinking concept cars. The partnership with the Gilmore Car Museum provides a fitting stage for the brand to reflect on its history and inspire future generations of car lovers.

Whether you’re a lifelong Mopar fan or just looking for a family-friendly summer adventure, this weekend’s celebration promises to deliver something special. With over 400 vehicles on display, hands-on exhibits, and a chance to experience Chrysler history in motion, the Gilmore Car Museum is the place to be for this milestone event.

For more details on tickets, schedules, and the full event lineup, visit gilmorecarmuseum.org.