Chicago’s Strangest Car Museum You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Chicago is packed with world-class museums—the Art Institute, the Field, the Museum of Science and Industry.

But tucked away in Avondale sits a spot most visitors (and plenty of locals) have never even heard of: the Klairmont Kollection.

If you’re even a little curious about cars, design, or history, this place will surprise you.

Imagine over 300 rare, vintage, and downright unusual vehicles, all displayed in a building that feels part museum, part time capsule.

The Story Behind the Kollection

The Klairmont Kollection started as the private passion project of Larry Klairmont, a decorated WWII veteran and Chicago businessman. Over decades, he acquired hundreds of unique cars from around the world. His collection grew so large that it needed its own museum space—and now, the public can explore it.

Every car has a story. Some are pristine classics. Others are eccentric customs with glittering paint jobs or wild modifications. The sheer variety makes walking through the galleries feel like flipping through a century of design trends.

What You’ll See

Classic American Beauties

You’ll find perfectly preserved Cadillacs, Buicks, and Packards from the golden age of Detroit. Chrome, fins, whitewall tires—they’re all here.

European Elegance

Ferraris, Rolls-Royces, Bentleys, and other imports sit polished to mirror shine. Each represents a moment in European car design history.

Custom Creations

This is where things get fun. Some cars are painted in wild metallic colors or feature unusual bodywork. A few look like they drove straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Military and Historic Vehicles

Given Klairmont’s military background, the collection includes WWII-era vehicles that add weight and history to the museum’s gleam.

Oddities You Won’t Expect

Bubble cars. Microcars. Vehicles with outlandish shapes and themes. This is not a uniform showroom—it’s a kaleidoscope of ideas on wheels.

More Than Just Cars

The museum space itself is fascinating. Neon signs, antique gas pumps, and retro décor fill the rooms. Walking around feels like stepping into a series of different decades at once.

Events and rentals are also part of the Kollection—weddings, photo shoots, and community gatherings happen among the cars, which only adds to the sense that this is part gallery, part Chicago landmark-in-the-making.

Tips for Visiting

• Location: 3111 N Knox Ave in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood.
• Hours: Open to the public on select days; check the website for current times.
• Admission: Around $20 for adults, discounts for kids and seniors.
• Parking: Free lot available.
• Plan for time: Give yourself at least 2 hours. Car enthusiasts may need half a day.
• Accessibility: The museum is fully indoors, making it a great option year-round.

Pair It With…

Since you’re in Avondale, consider:

• Revolution Brewing Taproom: Just minutes away, perfect for a post-museum pint.
• Logan Square eats: Grab tacos at L’Patron or a burger at Small Cheval.
• Chicago’s hidden architecture: Wander Belmont Cragin or Logan Square to see historic greystones and old theaters.

Why It’s a True Hidden Gem

The Klairmont Kollection isn’t just for gearheads. It’s about design, history, and pure curiosity. Where else in Chicago can you see a neon-pink microcar, a WWII jeep, and a 1930s Rolls-Royce under one roof?

Visitors often walk out shaking their heads, saying the same thing: How did I not know this was here?