Woody's Classic Car And Baseball Museum
If you are a classic car enthusiast or a baseball fanatic, then you must visit Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum. Situated in the heart of Clearwater, Florida, this museum is one of the most unique and comprehensive collections of classic cars and baseball memorabilia in the United States. With over 100,000 square feet of space, Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum offers an extraordinary glimpse into the history of automobiles and baseball.
The Story Behind Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum
The museum was founded by Woody Woodruff, a former baseball coach and a classic car collector, in 1975. Woody's passion for classic cars and baseball led him to start collecting both, and soon he accumulated a vast collection of antique cars and baseball memorabilia. In 2001, Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum opened its doors to the public, and since then, it has been a mecca for classic car and baseball enthusiasts alike.
The Classic Car Collection
Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum boasts an impressive collection of classic cars, ranging from the early 1900s to the present day. The museum has over 300 cars on display, including rare and one-of-a-kind vehicles. Visitors can admire cars like the 1931 Cadillac V-16, the 1957 Chevrolet Bel-Air, and the 1966 Ford GT40. The museum also has a significant collection of muscle cars from the 1960s and 1970s, including the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro and the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda.
The museum also houses a collection of concept cars, luxury cars, and sports cars. Visitors can see the 1948 Tucker Torpedo, the 1963 Corvette Stingray, and the 2005 Ford GT, among others. The museum also has a section dedicated to microcars, showcasing tiny cars like the 1959 BMW Isetta and the 1965 Peel Trident.
The Baseball Collection
Aside from the classic cars, Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum also has an extensive collection of baseball memorabilia. Visitors can see items like autographed baseballs, vintage baseball gloves, and baseball uniforms worn by legendary players. The museum also has a collection of bats used by Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and other baseball greats.
There are also exhibits dedicated to the history of baseball, showcasing the evolution of the game from its early days to the modern era. Visitors can learn about the Negro Leagues and the women's baseball league that inspired the movie A League of Their Own. The museum also has a section dedicated to the Tampa Bay Rays, featuring artifacts from the team's history, including game-worn jerseys and championship rings.
The Facilities
Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum is spread over two buildings, covering more than 100,000 square feet of space. The museum has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia. There is also a café where visitors can grab a bite to eat. The museum is wheelchair accessible, and there are ample restrooms for visitors.
The museum is open every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, except on major holidays. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the museum's entrance. The admission fee is $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $7 for children aged 5 to 12. Children under five years of age can enter for free.
The Verdict
Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and baseball fans. The museum's vast collection of classic cars and baseball memorabilia is awe-inspiring, and the facilities are top-notch. Whether you are a die-hard fan of classic cars or a baseball aficionado, Woody's Classic Car and Baseball Museum is an experience you won't forget.