Race to the National Corvette Museum: A Tribute to Excellence

Located twenty minutes outside of our beautiful property in Park City, KY, the National Corvette Museum showcases one of America’s most iconic cars. The Chevrolet Corvette, created in 1953, has been known as a high-performing vehicle for generations. Whether you are a die-hard fan, or just a casual admirer, the museum has something for everyone!

Today we will be providing an inside look at the National Corvette Museum. Join us as we embark on this journey to understand what makes the Corvette special.

History of the Museum

The Museum was created in 1994 with the mission to educate the world on the history and evolution of the Corvette. Its premier collection showcases the preservation and legacy of the iconic vehicle. Originally displayed as a “dream car”, the Corvette has maintained its pristine look over the course of several decades.

The Skydome

One of the most iconic pieces within the Museum is the Skydome. Created by Neumann/Smith Architecture, this piece stands as part of the original Museum. The concept behind the piece was to create something “futuristic and easily recognizable”. It pays homage to the Corvette based on its round shape resembling a speedometer from a Corvette’s dashboard.

Its bright colors and height make it a landmark to behold. On the inside of the Skydome, it brings forth special events, exhibits, and receptions. Overall, the Skydome stands as one of the most recognizable features of the museum and is a pillar of its history.

Exhibits and Attractions 

Let’s take a look at the various exhibits and attractions within the National Corvette Museum! Please refer to the exhibits portion of the museum’s website for current and up-to-date exhibit details.

American Love Affair

Situated within the Skydome, this attraction showcases the 70 years of Corvette history. Cars are lined throughout the inside of the dome. A nearly 300-foot LED is lined throughout the dome, showcasing the sights, sounds, and overall experience of Corvettes. This continuous video attracts groups of all ages with its stunning views.

The exhibit is open now and runs into 2025, so be sure to not miss this exciting opportunity!

Corvette Cave-In 

On February 12th, 2014, a sinkhole collapsed in the Skydome at the National Corvette Museum. Although no one was injured, individuals came to witness the destruction that was caused by the sinkhole. The sinkhole has since been filled, but the idea behind it has flourished. Fast forward to 2016, when a new exhibit dedicated to the memory of the sinkhole was created.

This exhibit showcases the history of what happened on that fateful day, as well as what cars were damaged based on the collapse. Not only that, but the exhibit goes into detail about sinkholes in general and how to recognize karst landscape within South Central Kentucky.

Lastly, the exhibit shows a section on how the sinkhole was fixed, and what it took to do so. The engineering process is on full display, as well as a live feed from inside the cave! They’ve even hidden a few Corvette pieces for your entertainment. You are sure to have a good time at the sinkhole exhibit at the National Corvette Museum.

The McMichael Family Education Gallery

Fun for families of all ages, this gallery was created to provide a state-of-the-art educational experience. It provides learning opportunities on various aspects of the Corvette, helping to create enthusiasts for future generations. A special feature is a space known as Studio X. This small room was designed to imitate the thinking space used by Bill Mitchell when designing the Corvette.

Wanting to step outside the shadow of Harley Earl, Mitchell found a small room in which he could privately design the model for the Corvette. The Studio exists to this day, where models such as the Mako Shark and the Manta Ray were conceived. Similarly, this room provides opportunities for students to help students of all ages craft their perfect cars!

Other Exhibits

Nostalgia Gallery

This gallery showcases the journey of the iconic eras of the Corvette, including memorabilia and classic models. Come witness and celebrate the appeal of America’s Sports Car!

E. Pierce Marshall Memorial Performance Gallery

See the cutting-edge advancements of the Corvette through these series of video presentations. Your party will be sure to experience the thrill of Corvette racing, as displayed in this gallery!

The Corvette Hall of Fame

Established in 1998, the Corvette Hall of Fame receives official recognition from the most influential individuals in the Corvette’s history. It is designed and dedicated to honor the achievements of these individuals, as well as recognize their character. Each year, new members are inducted into the Hall of Fame, with the videos on display on the YouTube Channel of the museum. 

Come see the display of those who are in the Hall of Fame, as well as learn more about what makes these individuals extraordinary.

Corvette Delivery

Are you looking for a unique and personalized approach to Corvette buying? Look no further than the National Corvette Museum. Unique and special delivery options are presented at this museum. There are various options for a delivery of your Corvette, including through a Chevrolet dealer!

Hours of Operation and Admissions

Now that you have learned about what the museum is, let’s take a look at the hours and cost of the experience.

Admission

March 1st through October 31st

• Senior Museum Ticket: $23
• Adult Museum Ticket: $25
• Youth Museum Ticket: $14
• Ages 4 and under: Free
• Museum Member Ticket: Free

November 1st through February 28th

Senior/Adult Museum Ticket: $23

Youth Museum Ticket: $12

Additionally, you can book a guided tour at the museum, with a minimum of a party of 15. 

Hours of Operation

January 1st through February 28th

• Monday through Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Closed Tuesdays
• Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

March 1st through October 31st

• Sunday through Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

November 1st through December 31st

• Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday:  9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  

Other Museums in Bowling Green, KY

We have written an in-depth look at what other museums, including the National Corvette Museum, lie within Bowling Green. Museum-lovers will have their hands full with all there is to do near our Inn!