Permanent Galleries

The Plank Road marks the dawn of automobile travel in Southern California—and the fierce rivalry between San Diego and Los Angeles. After losing the race for the transcontinental railroad, San Diego set its sights on a new prize: becoming the hub of Southern California’s road network before Los Angeles could claim the title.

Often seen driving around San Diego demonstrating the features of his car and telling stories about his adventures, Louie and his crew became celebrities. His non-stop drives from San Diego to New York and Anchorage to Mexico City made him a legend in his own time.

Tom Weller's car "Beulah" was used to rescue stranded motorists on San Diego's highways for decades. The exhibit focuses on his incredible specially modified car and the stories of those whose lives he touched through his generosity.

Ride through history with a remarkable collection of motorcycles that spans over 100 years. See rare and iconic bikes from the earliest motorized pioneers to celebrated classics, each with its own place in the evolution of motorcycle design and culture.

Step into the world of extreme speed with Turbinator, the turbine-powered dragster that redefined what’s possible on the strip. This gallery celebrates daring engineering and the pursuit of performance at the edge of innovation.