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{{Infobox Museum
{{Infobox Museum
| name = Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum
| name = Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum
| image =
| image_caption = Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum
| type = Automotive museum
| type = Automotive museum
| address = 6825 Norwitch Drive
| address = 6825-31 Norwitch Drive
| neighborhood = Southwest Philadelphia
| neighborhood = Southwest Philadelphia
| coordinates = 39.8882,-75.2551
| phone = (215) 365-7233
| phone = (215) 365-7233
| website = https://simeonemuseum.org
| website = https://www.simeonemuseum.org
| established = 2008
| established = 2008
| founder = Dr. Frederick Simeone
| founder = Frederick Simeone
| collection_size = 75+ historic racing cars
| director = Frederick Simeone
| admission = $15 adults, $10 students
| collections = Historic racing sports cars
| hours = Tue-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm
| visitors = 30,000+ annually
| public_transit = Limited; car recommended
| hours = Tue-Fri 10 AM - 6 PM; Sat-Sun 10 AM - 4 PM
}}
}}


The '''Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum''' is an automotive museum in [[Southwest Philadelphia]] housing one of the world's greatest collections of racing sports cars. The collection, assembled by Dr. Frederick Simeone over 50 years, includes rare and significant vehicles from the golden age of motorsport, many of which still run in "Demo Days" events.<ref name="simeone">{{cite web |url=https://simeonemuseum.org |title=Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum |publisher=Simeone Museum |access-date=December 23, 2025}}</ref>
'''The Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum''' houses one of the world's greatest collections of racing sports cars, featuring over 75 historically significant automobiles that competed in the most famous races of the 20th century—Le Mans, Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and more. Founded by Philadelphia neurosurgeon '''Dr. Frederick Simeone''', the museum is located in Southwest Philadelphia and is considered by automotive experts to be one of the finest collections of its type anywhere in the world.<ref name="simeone">{{cite web |url=https://www.simeonemuseum.org/about/ |title=About the Museum |publisher=Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>


== The Collection ==
What sets the Simeone collection apart is that these are not static museum pieces—many of the cars are kept in running condition and are demonstrated on a special track during regular '''Demo Days''', allowing visitors to see (and hear) historic racing machines in action. The collection spans from the 1908 American Underslung to 1970s Porsches, with particular strengths in pre-war European sports cars and 1950s-60s racing legends.<ref name="visit">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/simeone-foundation-automotive-museum/ |title=Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum |publisher=Visit Philadelphia |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>


=== Focus ===
== History ==


The museum specializes in racing sports cars from the 1920s through the 1970s—the era when automakers competed directly at Le Mans, Sebring, and other endurance races. These are not concours trailer queens; many are race-worn with original patina.
=== Dr. Frederick Simeone ===


=== Highlights ===
'''Dr. Frederick Simeone''' is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon who has collected significant racing sports cars for over five decades. Unlike collectors who focus on restoration to concours condition, Simeone has preserved cars in their authentic racing configuration, often retaining original patina and competition history.


* '''1963 Ferrari 250 GTO''' — One of the most valuable cars in the world
=== The Collection ===
* '''1937 Bugatti Type 57G "Tank"''' — Le Mans winner
* '''Alfa Romeo 8C 2900*** — Pre-war masterpiece
* '''Ford GT40*** — Le Mans dominator
* '''Jaguar D-Type''' — Triple Le Mans winner
* '''Porsche 917*** — Legendary endurance racer
* '''Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing'''


=== Organization ===
Simeone began collecting in the 1950s, focusing on:
* Cars with significant racing provenance
* Preservation over restoration
* Documentation and history
* Mechanical authenticity


Cars are displayed thematically:
=== Opening the Museum ===


* "The Spirit of Competition" — Racing evolution
In '''2008''', Simeone opened his collection to the public in a purpose-built facility in Southwest Philadelphia. The museum presents the cars in the context of racing history rather than as isolated objects.
* Manufacturer sections (Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, etc.)
* Le Mans winners
* American racing


== Demo Days ==
== Collection Highlights ==


What makes Simeone unique: the cars run.
=== Pre-War Classics ===


* Monthly Demo Day events
{| class="wikitable"
* Selected cars started and driven
! Car !! Year !! Significance
* Experience the sights, sounds, and smells
|-
* Rare opportunity to see historic racers in motion
| Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 || 1931-34 || Le Mans winners
* Check calendar for specific cars
|-
| Bugatti Type 35 || 1924-30 || Most successful racing car ever
|-
| Mercedes-Benz SSK || 1929 || Supercharged racing legend
|-
| Bentley Speed Six || 1929 || Le Mans winner
|}


== Dr. Frederick Simeone ==
=== Post-War Legends ===
 
Dr. Frederick Simeone is a neurosurgeon who spent 50 years assembling this collection. Unlike many collectors, he prioritized originality and racing provenance over cosmetic restoration. His book ''The Spirit of Competition'' documents the collection's philosophy.
 
== Visiting ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Car !! Year !! Significance
|-
|-
! Detail !! Information
| Ferrari 250 GTO || 1962 || Most valuable car in the world
|-
| '''Hours''' || Tue-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm
|-
|-
| '''Admission''' || $15 adults, $10 students
| Jaguar D-Type || 1955-57 || Le Mans winner
|-
|-
| '''Address''' || 6825 Norwitch Drive
| Ford GT40 || 1966-69 || Ended Ferrari's Le Mans dominance
|-
|-
| '''Time needed''' || 2 hours
| Porsche 917 || 1970 || Le Mans legend
|-
|-
| '''Demo Days''' || Monthly; check calendar
| Shelby Cobra || 1963-65 || American racing icon
|}
|}
=== The Collection's Scope ===
Over 75 cars representing:
* Major racing marques: Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Maserati, Porsche, Jaguar
* Important racing eras: Brass era through 1970s
* Significant races: Le Mans, Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, Sebring
== Demo Days ==
=== Living History ===
Many cars in the collection are maintained in running condition. During '''Demo Days''', select cars are demonstrated on the museum's track:
* Cars started and driven
* Original engines fired up
* Racing history comes alive
* Sight, sound, and smell of historic racing
=== Schedule ===
Demo Days occur regularly (typically monthly):
* Check website for upcoming dates
* Different cars featured each event
* Included with regular admission
* Popular events—arrive early
== Visiting the Museum ==
=== Hours ===
* '''Tuesday-Friday:''' 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
* '''Saturday:''' 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
* '''Sunday:''' 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
* '''Closed:''' Monday
=== Admission ===
* '''Adults:''' Approximately $15 (check website for current pricing)
* '''Seniors:''' Discounted rates
* '''Children (8-15):''' Approximately $8
* '''Children under 8:''' Free


=== Tips ===
=== Tips ===


* Demo Days are special—check the schedule
* Allow 2 hours for a full visit
* Car enthusiasts will want extensive time
* Demo Days are the best time to visit (but busiest)
* The 250 GTO alone is worth the visit
* The museum is accessible for casual visitors and serious enthusiasts alike
* Location requires driving—not transit accessible
* Great for car enthusiasts of all ages
* Gift shop has automotive books and memorabilia


== Getting There ==
=== Getting There ===


* '''Car''' — Near I-95 in Southwest Philadelphia
* '''By Car:''' Best accessed by car—located near the Philadelphia International Airport
* '''Address''' — 6825 Norwitch Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19153
* '''Address:''' 6825-31 Norwitch Drive (off Bartram Avenue)
* '''Transit''' — Limited; car strongly recommended
* '''Parking:''' Free on-site parking
* '''Parking''' — Free on-site


== Frequently Asked Questions ==
=== Location ===


{{FAQ
Located in Southwest Philadelphia near the airport, about 15-20 minutes from Center City by car.
|q1=Is the Simeone Museum worth visiting?
|a1=For car enthusiasts, especially those interested in racing history, it's a world-class destination. The collection rivals any in the world, including a Ferrari 250 GTO. Non-enthusiasts may find it more specialized. Demo Days add a unique dimension.


|q2=What is Demo Day at the Simeone Museum?
== The Museum Building ==
|a2=Demo Days are monthly events where selected cars from the collection are started and driven. Visitors can experience legendary racing cars in motion—the sounds, smells, and excitement. It's a rare opportunity since these cars are too valuable to race but designed to run.


|q3=How much is a Ferrari 250 GTO worth?
The purpose-built facility includes:
|a3=Ferrari 250 GTOs have sold for $48-70+ million at auction, making them among the most valuable cars in the world. Only 36 were built. The Simeone Museum's GTO is one of the few you can see in person.
* Open gallery space displaying cars
 
* Demonstration track
|q4=Who is Dr. Simeone?
* Workshop visible to visitors
|a4=Dr. Frederick Simeone is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon who spent 50 years assembling this collection. He prioritized originality and racing history over perfect restoration, resulting in authentic cars with racing patina. His philosophy is documented in his book ''The Spirit of Competition.''
* Library and archives
}}
* Gift shop


== See Also ==
== See Also ==


* [[Automotive History in Philadelphia]]
* [[Southwest Philadelphia]]
* [[Southwest Philadelphia]]
* [[Philadelphia Auto Show]]
* [[Museums in Philadelphia]]


== References ==
== References ==
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== External Links ==
== External Links ==


* [https://simeonemuseum.org Official Website]
* [https://www.simeonemuseum.org Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum Official Website]
* [https://simeonemuseum.org/demo-days Demo Days Calendar]
* [https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/simeone-foundation-automotive-museum/ Visit Philadelphia Guide]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Simeone Automotive Museum - World-Class Racing Car Collection in Philadelphia
|title=Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum - World-Class Racing Sports Cars
|description=The Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum houses one of the world's greatest collections of racing sports cars, including a Ferrari 250 GTO. Demo Days let you see them run.
|description=Visit the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, housing one of the world's finest collections of racing sports cars. See Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Porsche, and more. Demo Days bring historic cars to life.
|keywords=Simeone Museum, racing cars, Ferrari 250 GTO, automotive museum, car museum Philadelphia, vintage racing, Le Mans cars
|keywords=Simeone Museum, car museum Philadelphia, racing cars, Ferrari 250 GTO, Le Mans, sports cars, automotive museum, classic cars Philadelphia, Demo Days
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Museums]]
[[Category:Museums]]
[[Category:Automotive Museums]]
[[Category:Southwest Philadelphia]]
[[Category:Southwest Philadelphia]]
[[Category:Automotive History]]
[[Category:Sports]]

Latest revision as of 21:05, 30 December 2025

Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum



TypeAutomotive museum
Address6825-31 Norwitch Drive
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodSouthwest Philadelphia
Phone(215) 365-7233
WebsiteOfficial site
Established2008
FounderFrederick Simeone
DirectorFrederick Simeone
HoursTue-Fri 10 AM - 6 PM; Sat-Sun 10 AM - 4 PM
Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum(215) 365-72336825-31 Norwitch DrivePhiladelphiaPAUS

The Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum houses one of the world's greatest collections of racing sports cars, featuring over 75 historically significant automobiles that competed in the most famous races of the 20th century—Le Mans, Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and more. Founded by Philadelphia neurosurgeon Dr. Frederick Simeone, the museum is located in Southwest Philadelphia and is considered by automotive experts to be one of the finest collections of its type anywhere in the world.[1]

What sets the Simeone collection apart is that these are not static museum pieces—many of the cars are kept in running condition and are demonstrated on a special track during regular Demo Days, allowing visitors to see (and hear) historic racing machines in action. The collection spans from the 1908 American Underslung to 1970s Porsches, with particular strengths in pre-war European sports cars and 1950s-60s racing legends.[2]

History

[edit | edit source]

Dr. Frederick Simeone

[edit | edit source]

Dr. Frederick Simeone is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon who has collected significant racing sports cars for over five decades. Unlike collectors who focus on restoration to concours condition, Simeone has preserved cars in their authentic racing configuration, often retaining original patina and competition history.

The Collection

[edit | edit source]

Simeone began collecting in the 1950s, focusing on:

  • Cars with significant racing provenance
  • Preservation over restoration
  • Documentation and history
  • Mechanical authenticity

Opening the Museum

[edit | edit source]

In 2008, Simeone opened his collection to the public in a purpose-built facility in Southwest Philadelphia. The museum presents the cars in the context of racing history rather than as isolated objects.

Collection Highlights

[edit | edit source]

Pre-War Classics

[edit | edit source]
Car Year Significance
Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 1931-34 Le Mans winners
Bugatti Type 35 1924-30 Most successful racing car ever
Mercedes-Benz SSK 1929 Supercharged racing legend
Bentley Speed Six 1929 Le Mans winner

Post-War Legends

[edit | edit source]
Car Year Significance
Ferrari 250 GTO 1962 Most valuable car in the world
Jaguar D-Type 1955-57 Le Mans winner
Ford GT40 1966-69 Ended Ferrari's Le Mans dominance
Porsche 917 1970 Le Mans legend
Shelby Cobra 1963-65 American racing icon

The Collection's Scope

[edit | edit source]

Over 75 cars representing:

  • Major racing marques: Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Maserati, Porsche, Jaguar
  • Important racing eras: Brass era through 1970s
  • Significant races: Le Mans, Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, Sebring

Demo Days

[edit | edit source]

Living History

[edit | edit source]

Many cars in the collection are maintained in running condition. During Demo Days, select cars are demonstrated on the museum's track:

  • Cars started and driven
  • Original engines fired up
  • Racing history comes alive
  • Sight, sound, and smell of historic racing

Schedule

[edit | edit source]

Demo Days occur regularly (typically monthly):

  • Check website for upcoming dates
  • Different cars featured each event
  • Included with regular admission
  • Popular events—arrive early

Visiting the Museum

[edit | edit source]

Hours

[edit | edit source]
  • Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Closed: Monday

Admission

[edit | edit source]
  • Adults: Approximately $15 (check website for current pricing)
  • Seniors: Discounted rates
  • Children (8-15): Approximately $8
  • Children under 8: Free

Tips

[edit | edit source]
  • Allow 2 hours for a full visit
  • Demo Days are the best time to visit (but busiest)
  • The museum is accessible for casual visitors and serious enthusiasts alike
  • Great for car enthusiasts of all ages
  • Gift shop has automotive books and memorabilia

Getting There

[edit | edit source]
  • By Car: Best accessed by car—located near the Philadelphia International Airport
  • Address: 6825-31 Norwitch Drive (off Bartram Avenue)
  • Parking: Free on-site parking

Location

[edit | edit source]

Located in Southwest Philadelphia near the airport, about 15-20 minutes from Center City by car.

The Museum Building

[edit | edit source]

The purpose-built facility includes:

  • Open gallery space displaying cars
  • Demonstration track
  • Workshop visible to visitors
  • Library and archives
  • Gift shop

See Also

[edit | edit source]

References

[edit | edit source]
  1. ↑ "About the Museum". Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum. Retrieved December 30, 2025
  2. ↑ "Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025
[edit | edit source]
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