This vast automotive museum, located in an opulent and modern facility, showcases constantly rotating displays of some of the finest concept and one-of-a-kind automobiles from the 20th century. Operated as a non-profit organization dedicated to the finest examples of the automotive craft, the Blackhawk Museum also offers a library for research and a constant "stable" of display vehicles that are rotated into concept exhibits.
There are quite a few autos that have graced the exhibition halls of this museum since it opened in 1988. Though a partnership with the Smithsonian Institution, it has prominence as one of North America's premiere car museum. Also, the nearby Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance has premiered many of the vehicles subsequently shown at the Blackhawk Museum.
While the museum space itself is over 70,000 square feet (6500 square meters), the exhibition space itself consists of two 2,100 square foot (<200 square meter) halls. The facility has hosted events that held as many as 1,500 guests. While you may not actually get so close to the cars as to touch them, you may take photographs of vehicles that many have called "rolling sculptures."
Volunteers who teach classes, attend car shows on the museum's behalf and give knowledgeable tours are called "docents," and are are volunteers — often donors, in fact. Each goes through a schooling program to become expert in all aspects of the vehicles on display and tour etiquette. As such, they are well-acquainted with visitors from all over.
Just outside the city of San Francisco, proper, a quick trip across the Bay Bridge will bring you to Danville. Tucked into a semi-rural setting, the Blackhawk Museum is open on various days during relaxed business hours. Be sure to call or check the website to be sure before heading out.
The Annual Docent's Favorite Ride at Blackhawk Museum near San Francisco is a chance for the members and staff to show off their sleek wheels to the public, and for you to see some vintage cars in mint condition.
