The Tucson Auto Museum (TAM) is one of those places you might be looking for if it wasn’t for an interest in automobiles. Out one day on a drive to Sabino Canyon, Sal and I stumbled upon it. It occupies the building formerly known as the Hidden Valley Inn.
Made up of 70 automobiles from a variety of eras, the brands range from Chevrolet (Corvette) to Porsche (356) to Packards and DeSotos. With lots of mini cars and three-wheelers sprinkled in just to start conversations. Arranged in three large rooms, they are grouped by foreign, domestic or notable interest (the main room). And along the way you will find at least three Batmobiles (and a Penguinmobile). All start and can be driven.
It reminds you of a kid’s Hot Wheels collection. Only full scale.
The location is good for just a visit or to hold events. Recently they held a 75th Anniversary of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). Outdoor displays as well as speakers and media opportunities. The museum also has a cooperative agreement with other transportation museums for a transportation trail experience.
On a recent guest appearance on the Celebrating Arizona Podcast I mentioned them (at about the 18-minute mark).
Recently they announced their closure. Apparently this 501(C)(3) hasn’t made it financially. The liquidation auction takes place in January following the December 31 closure.
Sad to see it go. But, like the other auto museums and collections in Arizona, it was one of a kind.
Relentless
