Visit the Prized Collection of Harry D. Blomberg’s Antique and Vintage Automobiles
111 Grovewood Rd
Asheville, NC 28804
USA
Open April through December, Monday-Sunday 10:00am-5:00pm (The museum is closed January – March, Thanksgiving & Christmas)
The Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum at Grovewood Village showcases a collection of vintage automobiles dating from the romance-filled days of wooden steering wheels and polished brass headlamps. These antique beauties were owned by local legend Harry D. Blomberg, Asheville’s Cadillac-Pontiac dealer for over half a century and founder of modern-day Harry’s On The Hill, who purchased Biltmore Industries in 1953 and saved it from going under. After downsizing the business, the Industries’ weaving shed was eventually transformed into a car museum to shelter Harry’s prized collection of vehicles, established in 1966. The museum features Harry’s prized collection of antique and vintage automobiles, including a rare 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham and Asheville’s own 1922 American LaFrance fire truck.
BE SURE TO LOOK UP! Cars aren’t the only stars at this attraction. The museum also features two custom-made Roycroft chandeliers (circa 1918) designed by Karl Kipp – creator of some of the most sought-after metalwork of the Arts and Crafts movement. They originally hung in Overlook, a stone castle with a storied past, still standing just a few miles from here. You’ll also notice thought-provoking quotes and mottos inscribed on the museum’s overhead beams and chandeliers. These were placed up at the direction of Fred Loring Seely (then-manager of Biltmore Industries) and chosen to serve as inspirations for his employees.
ADMISSION IS FREE, but a $5 donation is suggested and is greatly appreciated. Your contribution helps them to maintain the collection for future generations of antique auto lovers.
Free parking for the museum is available on-site but fairly limited. Carpooling is always encouraged. They are located across the street from the Grove Park Inn’s parking garage. From January 3 through September 30, they offer 1 hour of complimentary parking. After that, there is a charge.