Need a small-town getaway with vintage flair and Midwestern charm? Head to Auburn! Known as the “Home of the Classics,” Auburn, Indiana is a hidden gem for auto lovers, history buffs, and families seeking friendly hospitality and fun attractions. Whether you’re touring car museums or enjoying classic diners, Auburn offers nostalgic charm and authentic Hoosier experiences.
Auburn, IN Highlights:
- For Car Lovers: Visit the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum – Tour stunning classic cars in an Art Deco showroom.
- For History Buffs: Explore the National Auto & Truck Museum – Discover vintage trucks, experimental vehicles, and automotive innovation.
- For Shoppers: Hunt antiques and crafts downtown – Unique boutiques, thrift finds, and local art await on Main Street.
- For Couples: Take a sunset stroll at Eckhart Park – Quiet trails and gardens create a peaceful romantic escape.
- For Families: Ride go-karts and play games at Kruse Plaza – Enjoy fun attractions, festivals, and seasonal events year-round.
Best Time to Visit Auburn, IN
The best time to visit Auburn is in late summer and early fall (August through October). This is when Auburn comes alive with car festivals, fall foliage, and outdoor events. Spring and early summer are also pleasant with fewer crowds.
How to Get to Auburn, IN
- If you are traveling by car: Auburn is located off I-69, just 20 minutes north of Fort Wayne and about 2.5 hours from Indianapolis or Detroit.
- By Plane: The nearest airport is Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA), about 35 minutes away.
- By Bus: Greyhound and regional bus lines operate from Fort Wayne, with car rentals available nearby.
Where to Stay in Auburn, IN
- Recommended for Families: SureStay Plus by Best Western – Budget-friendly, pool access, and close to major attractions.
- For Couples: Inn at Windmere – A peaceful countryside bed-and-breakfast with cozy rooms and homemade breakfast.
- For Convenience and Comfort: Tru by Hilton Auburn – Modern amenities, colorful interiors, and a great central location.
Best Things to Do in Auburn, IN
1. Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
I like:
"Admire classic cars and explore exciting sights in this automotive landmark."
The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum showcases more than 120 cars across three levels. The nine automotive-themed galleries lets visitors experience a wide range of automobiles and related exhibits, ranging from classic cars to engineering and racing themed exhibits to cars built in Indiana to the original Auburn Automobile Company. The mission of the unique museum is the collection, documentation, preservation, and interpretation of stories and relevant artifacts of the Auburn Automobile Company, Duesenbergs, Cords, Auburns, and several other automobiles, along with their heritage of design, societal, competition, and innovation. The museum engages the community with fun and educational experiences.
1600 S Wayne St, Auburn, IN 46706, Phone: 260-925-1444
2. National Automotive and Truck Museum (NATMUS)
I recommend:
"Discover vintage vehicles and enjoy an affordable stop packed with rare attractions."
The National Automotive and Truck Museum (NATMUS), also known as NATMUS, welcomes thousands of people every year from all over the world. All manner of vintage trucks and “post-war” cars can be seen on display throughout the museum for the enjoyment of visitors as well as possibly to bring back their memories of vehicles they used to own. Boasting over 100,000 square feet of automotive-related displays, the National Automotive and Truck Museum features muscle cars from the 1960’s and 1970’s, “one-of-a-kind exhibits,” numerous prototypes, more than 100 trucks covering over 100 years of production, multiple brand collections, race cars, and much more.
1000 Gordon M Buehrig Pl, Auburn, IN 46706, Phone: 260-925-9100
Attractions for Couples
3. Early Ford V-8 Foundation & Museum
I love:
"See iconic Fords and walk along exhibits celebrating automotive history."
The Early Ford V-8 Foundation & Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, exhibiting, and interpreting the heritage and history of products made between the years of 1932 and 1953 by the Ford Motor Company. Made up of a research library and three different major sections, the museum features an Early Ford Speed exhibit, a 1940’s Ford Service Garage, and displays about industrial engines and farming in its original Phase 1 section. There is also the Floyd Motors section that depicts a 1936 Ford dealership and the Frank Corey Gallery housing a number of Ford vehicles manufactured from 1932 to 1953.
2181 Rotunda Drive, Auburn, IN 46706, Phone: 260-927-8022
4. Mad Anthony's
I enjoy:
"Sip craft brews and savor laid-back vibes on a fun weekend trip."
Mad Anthony's opened its Tap Room doors in the city of Auburn, the home of the largest car auction in the world, in 2002. Located in the historic downtown building that formerly housed the Blackwells Department Store, the Mad Anthony Brewing Company opened a destination for craft beer enthusiasts that is highlighted by a beautiful raised bar area featuring eclectic decor, large windows allowing guests to look out on Main Street, and exposed brick walls. Mad Anthony’s has become a popular gathering spot for locals.
114 N Main St, Auburn, IN 46706, Phone: 260-927-0500
5. Byler Lane Winery
I like:
"Enjoy local wines and admire scenic views during a relaxing couples escape."
Say hello to Byler Lane Winery, a place where friends turn into family, stories are always being shared, and memories are made. This winery has been serving bottles of its exquisite wine since 2016 and offers a range of varieties from dry wines to sweet wines. Guests who wish to learn about their wines and sample their diverse offerings can do so at Byler Lane’s tasting room. Overlooking the winery’s sprawling vineyards and a peaceful pond, the guests can enjoy a relaxing afternoon or evening with their loved ones over a tasting flight paired with the perfect treats and eats.
5858 County Road 35, Auburn, Indiana 46706, Phone: 260-920-4377
Where to Eat in Auburn, IN
- Recommended for Families: Mad Anthony’s Auburn Tap Room – A lively local spot for burgers, wings, and regional brews.
- For Comfort Food: The Italian Grille – A casual favorite for pasta, pizza, and friendly service.
- For a Cozy Meal: Jeremiah’s Brewed Awakenings – Local coffee shop serving breakfast, baked goods, and café fare in a comfy setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Car Enthusiasts: Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival (Labor Day Weekend) – Classic car parades, swap meets, and collector showcases.
- For Fall Fun: DeKalb County Free Fall Fair (September) – One of Indiana’s oldest county fairs with rides, food, and live music.
- For Holiday Cheer: Christmas in the Village (December) – Downtown lights, carriage rides, and festive events for all ages.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Auburn, IN:
- For City Fun: Fort Wayne (25–30 min) – Visit the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, museums, or stroll Promenade Park along the riverfront.
- For Nature Lovers: Chain O’Lakes State Park (30 min) – Kayak connected lakes, hike scenic trails, or camp under the stars.
- For History Buffs: Garrett Railroad Museum (15 min) – Discover vintage trains and rail heritage in a nearby town.
- For Shoppers: Shipshewana (30 min) – Explore Amish markets, craft fairs, and one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest.
- For Lake Views: Lake James and Pokagon State Park (30 min) – Boat, fish, swim, or sled on Indiana’s famous toboggan run in winter.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
Question: When was Auburn, Indiana, established?
Answer: Auburn was established in 1836. -
Question: What is Auburn’s nickname?
Answer: Auburn is proudly known as “The Home of the Classic.” -
Question: What historical significance does Auburn have?
Answer: Auburn played a pioneering role in the early days of the automotive industry. -
Question: Why is Auburn a great destination for car enthusiasts?
Answer: Auburn is home to several automotive museums, including the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, the National Automotive and Truck Museum, and the Early Ford V-8 Foundation & Museum.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and great for exploring local parks.
Auburn Inn – A cozy stay with a classic small-town charm.
Visit Eckhart Park – Enjoy walking trails, green spaces, and picnic areas.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for classic car events.
Tru by Hilton Auburn – A modern and comfortable stay near major attractions.
Explore the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum – Discover vintage luxury cars and automotive history.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and vibrant autumn colors.
Holiday Inn Express Auburn – A convenient stay with great amenities.
Attend the Auburn Fall Auction – Experience one of the country’s premier classic car auctions.
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