Frontier Auto Museum & Cafe

Imagine a place where time stood still in the mid-20th century. The Frontier Auto Museum is more than just a car show; it’s a captivating portal to the past, located in the town of Gillette. Spanning over 13,000 square feet, this private museum created by the Wandler family transformed an old 1949 Ford dealership into a real vintage town.

Inside this treasure trove in the USA, visitors find not only the gleaming chrome of classic cars but also a massive collection of "nostalgia": vintage gas pumps, bright neon signs, and thousands of everyday artifacts from the last century. Thanks to incredible attention to detail, the museum has earned the highest ratings among travelers, becoming one of Wyoming’s top cultural spots.

Every zone here is a story in itself. You can stroll through recreated streets from the 1900s–1950s, peek into an old barbershop or pharmacy, and feel like a character in a classic American movie. This place is perfect for both avid car enthusiasts and families looking for inspiration in retro culture aesthetics.

For those planning a visit to this unique space, the basic contact information is provided below. You can check details about upcoming events or book a time for a group tour.

The main reason to visit the Frontier Auto Museum is the chance to see some of the rarest classic car models. The collection features legends such as Chandler, Crosley, Packard, Studebaker, and Hudson. All vehicles are restored to pristine condition and can be admired indefinitely. Be sure to check out the "vintage garage," where cars sit on original lifts surrounded by authentic spare parts.

Beyond the cars, the museum offers unique interactive areas. There’s a miniature drive-in theater showing old clips and films, as well as entire themed rooms: a mining hall with a model railroad and stylized shops—from a 1930s barbershop to an old laundry and a general store.

A special treat is visiting the Commodore Cafe. This is an authentic soda fountain pharmacy where you can order ice cream or a soda from a real fountain, listen to a jukebox, and even play pinball. For children and those not in a rush, there are cozy corners with board games and books on regional history, making the visit truly heartwarming and homey.

Finding the Frontier Auto Museum is quite easy, as it is conveniently located in the central part of the city at 205 S Ross Ave. This is a historic district where the museum building itself fits perfectly into the architectural look of the old town.

If you are traveling by car, look for the intersection of city streets downtown; the former Ford dealership building is hard to miss. For those who prefer not to drive, taxis or local rideshare services can take you from anywhere in central Gillette in just a few minutes. Public transport is somewhat limited in this part of town, so a personal vehicle or taxi remains the most comfortable option.

The story of this place didn't start with a business plan but with genuine family passion. The Wandler family moved to Gillette back in 1962. The patriarch, Leon Wandler, laid the foundation for the future collection through his love for rare Hudson cars, which still hold a central place in the exhibition today.

His son, Jeff Wandler, shared his father’s fascination with muscle cars and drag racing from a young age. Over time, he began collecting not just cars, but "pieces of history"—old gas pumps and neon signs back when they were still considered junk. Over two decades, the collection grew to such a scale that it became impossible to store in private garages.

Inspired by a friend’s example, Jeff purchased the historic Ford dealership building constructed in 1949. The museum opened its doors in January 2016. Today, it’s more than just an exhibition; it’s a three-generation legacy. Along with Jeff, his daughter Briana and son-in-law BJ help run the museum, carefully preserving American heritage for future generations.

To leisurely explore all 13,000 square feet of the exhibits, visitors typically need 2 to 3 hours. This is enough time to study the details of the restored cars, browse the stylized shops, and soak in the spirit of a bygone era.

If you plan to stop by the Commodore Cafe to try their signature ice cream or enjoy a cup of coffee to the sounds of classic music, set aside an additional 30–40 minutes. The museum is so packed with small artifacts that you really won't want to rush.

The doors of the Frontier Auto Museum are open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday. The schedule is consistent: from 09:00 to 17:00. This provides plenty of time to explore the collection in either the morning or afternoon.

Please note that the museum is usually closed on Sundays and Mondays. It is recommended to check the official website before your trip, as the schedule may change on holidays.

After immersing yourself in the world of retro cars, it’s worth taking time for other local attractions. The area around the museum offers great options for dining, relaxation, and entertainment to make your day in Gillette as full as possible.