About
While its name might conjure images of grumpy old men, Old Cranks Motorcar Museum in Galax pays homage to the automobile.
This unique museum was founded by passionate car enthusiasts who wanted to host an array of vintage cars from bygone eras. Their collection spans decades, giving you a glimpse into how automotive design and technology have evolved.
With over 70 autos, there is something for everyone, even if you're not a car buff. The museum also has vintage clothing, license plates, and other memorabilia; visiting is like stepping into a time capsule.
Its central location makes visiting several Galax attractions in a day easy-peasy. After a day of whitewater rafting with New River Trips LLC, visit the museum for an indoor adventure or before a Blue Ridge Music Center concert.
One standout aspect of the museum is the displays for each vehicle, which give attendees information on when the car was built and other educational details. This helps visitors appreciate how car designs have evolved and the costs involved in owning one.
The ice cream shop is a step back in time to simpler times and is decorated with car memorabilia, a checkered floor, and tables and chairs for relaxing.
Whether a fan of vintage cars or history, the Old Cranks Motorcar Museum offers inexpensive fun for the entire family.
Old Cranks Motorcar Museum: Fun Facts & Cool Features
With over 70 vehicles to explore, one of the coolest features of visiting is the rare turn-of-the-century autos. You'll get to see a 1906 Orient, a 1917 Detroit Electric, and a 1919 Stanley Steamer, not to mention a 1950 Studebaker, a 1959 Austin-Healy, a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1, and a 1952 Hudson Hornet.
Another fun fact is that every car offers a unique glimpse into the past, revealing ingenuity, engineering, and craftsmanship. The vehicles provide an immersive timeline where one can witness the evolution of design, power, and safety on a walking tour of the Old Cranks Motorcar Museum.
While the museum has limited hours of operation on the weekends, you can squeeze in a visit before heading to town and dining at a top draw like Tlaquepaque Mexican Restaurant. And if your sweet tooth is acting up, grab a seat and order some ice cream. While the flavors are limited, you can't beat the price of $1 per scoop at the time of this publication.
The museum's themed displays will appeal to visitors not interested in vintage motorcars. The area is jam-packed with vintage gas pumps and signs, license plates, period clothing, and so much more. For many, these are equally mesmerizing as the museum's antique cars.
Visiting Old Cranks Motorcar Museum is an inexpensive must-do on your Blue Ridge Parkway vacation, offering antique autos, ice cream, and vintage memorabilia to explore.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to Old Cranks Motorcar Museum from Hillsville:
- Head southwest on Main St toward Sloan St.
- Turn right onto S Main St/US-52 S.
- Continue to follow US-52 S for approximately 11 miles.
- Merge onto I-77 S via the ramp to Charlotte.
- Take exit 14 for US-58/US-221 toward Hillsville/Galax.
- Turn right onto US-58 W/US-221 S (signs for Galax).
- Continue to follow US-58 W for around 10 miles.
- Take a slight right onto VA-89 N/E Stuart Dr.
- Turn right onto S Main St in Galax.
- Address: 407 Railroad Avenue, Galax, VA 24333
Local Tips
- With limited hours, arrive early for the least crowded experience.
- Check the event calendar for special exhibits or interactive sessions.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at nearby parks after your museum visit.
- The museum's staff can answer any questions about the exhibits.
