The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, located in Dearborn, Michigan, is a vibrant exploration of genius in various forms. It offers an immersive experience in the stories of innovation that have shaped America.
Key Information about the Museum
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124-5029, United States |
| Contact | For inquiries, the museum can be contacted at 313.982.6001 or via email at [email protected]. |
| Parking | Parking is available for museum visitors with a fee of $9.00, which is added to each online order during the checkout process. Members and certain other patrons may not be charged for parking. |
| Accessibility | The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is dedicated to providing a fully accessible experience for all visitors. Comprehensive information regarding accessibility features, services, and accommodations can be accessed on their official website. |
| Website | Explore detailed information about exhibits, events, and online ticket purchases at the museum’s official website: www.thehenryford.org. |
Opening Hours and Admission Fees
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation welcomes visitors every day of the week from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Days to allow staff and patrons time to celebrate these holidays with their families.
Admission Fees
The museum offers a variety of ticket options to cater to different visitor demographics:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| General Admission | $30.00 |
| Seniors (62+) | $27.00 |
| Youth (5-11) | $22.50 |
Membership options are also available, offering the benefit of free admission.
Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation presents numerous advantages beyond complimentary admission. Members gain access to exclusive events, discounts at the museum store and restaurants, free parking, and more. Additionally, membership supports the museum’s mission to preserve American history and inspire future generations through innovation.
Group Visits
The museum warmly welcomes group visits, offering discounted rates for groups of 20 or more. Group visits must be scheduled in advance to ensure availability and to provide the best possible experience for all guests.
Brief History and Features
Originally Henry Ford’s personal collection, the museum has evolved into a sprawling 12-acre complex showcasing a rich tapestry of American history and innovation. Its diverse exhibits include antique machinery, automobiles, locomotives, and aircraft, offering visitors an immersive exploration of the nation’s cultural and technological heritage.
With its roots deeply entrenched in Henry Ford’s vision, the museum stands as a testament to his passion for preserving history and celebrating innovation. Today, it continues to inspire and educate visitors of all ages, providing a window into the past while also fostering a deeper appreciation for the advancements that have shaped the modern world.
Exhibits and Collections
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is home to a remarkable array of exhibits and collections, showcasing pivotal moments and inventions that have shaped American history. Among the museum’s most significant items are:
- Rosa Parks Bus: Step aboard the bus where Rosa Parks took her courageous stand against segregation, igniting the Civil Rights Movement;
- Wright Brothers’ Achievements: Explore the groundbreaking achievements of the Wright brothers, pioneers of aviation, and examine their iconic aircraft that revolutionized air travel;
- Buckminster Fuller’s Dymaxion House: Delve into the innovative designs of Buckminster Fuller as you tour his futuristic Dymaxion House, an embodiment of his vision for sustainable living;
- Presidential Vehicles: Marvel at a collection of presidential vehicles, including those used by past U.S. presidents, providing insight into the history of transportation and the presidency;
- Historical Artifacts: Discover a wide range of historical artifacts, spanning various eras and industries, offering a comprehensive look at American innovation and ingenuity.
Special Features
Within this renowned museum, visitors can explore a range of special features that enhance their experience and offer unique insights into various aspects of American history.
Theater
The Henry Ford Museum boasts a cutting-edge 4K digital projection theater, offering visitors an immersive cinematic experience like no other. With its advanced technology and carefully curated programming, the theater provides an engaging platform for exploring key moments and themes in American history.
- Immersive Visuals: The theater’s 4K digital projection system delivers stunning visuals, transporting viewers to pivotal moments in American history with unparalleled clarity and detail;
- Educational Programming: From documentaries on the Industrial Revolution to major films covering significant historical events, the theater offers a diverse range of educational programming that appeals to visitors of all ages and interests;
- Comfortable Seating: Designed for comfort and optimal viewing, the theater’s seating ensures that visitors can enjoy the cinematic experience in relaxation, allowing them to focus on the rich content presented on screen.
Research Center
The Benson Ford Research Center, located within the Henry Ford Museum, serves as a hub for scholarly exploration and in-depth research into various aspects of American history. With its extensive collection of archival materials and expert staff, the research center offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the stories and innovations that have shaped the nation.
- Access to Archival Materials: Visitors to the research center have access to a vast collection of historical documents, photographs, manuscripts, and ephemera, providing valuable primary sources for studying American history;
- Expert Assistance: Knowledgeable staff members are available to assist visitors with their research inquiries, offering guidance on navigating the center’s collections and locating relevant resources;
- Educational Workshops and Seminars: In addition to its archival resources, the research center hosts educational workshops and seminars that delve into specific topics in American history, providing visitors with opportunities to engage with scholars and experts in the field.
Visit Planning
When planning a visit to the Henry Ford Museum, you can take advantage of several promotions to enhance your experience. The Explore Detroit Pass offers a 50% discount on a second attraction when you purchase a Combo Ticket, allowing you to explore more attractions around the Detroit area. Additionally, active U.S. military personnel can enjoy free admission year-round to the museum. These promotions offer great ways to save while enjoying the rich historical and cultural experiences at the Henry Ford Museum
Prohibited Items
For a hassle-free tour, below are the prohibited items when visiting the Henry Ford Museum:
| Aspect | Policy |
|---|---|
| Service Animals | The museum adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and allows service animals, specifically dogs and miniature horses that are trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. However, pets and animals like emotional support animals, which are not specifically trained for disability assistance, are not permitted. |
| Personal Mobility Devices | Visitors are welcome to bring personal mobility devices like strollers, small wagons, wheelchairs, or electric scooters. The museum also provides rental services for children’s strollers and wagons. Bicycles, tricycles, recreational scooters, in-line skates, or roller skates are not allowed. Segways are permitted for guests with mobility impairments as part of the museum’s commitment to accessibility. |
| Food and Drink | A small amount of food and beverages can be brought into the museum. However, outside alcohol is not allowed, although beer and wine are available for purchase on-site. |
| Smoking Policy | The museum has specific regulations regarding smoking, which align with general public health and safety guidelines. |