On my way back from a family reunion near Montreal, I took the time to stop in Philadelphia at the Simeone Museum. From their literature: “Founded in 2008 by the legendary neurosurgeon and car collector Dr. Frederick Simeone … whose mission is to educate the public on the beneficial effects of the Spirit of Competition.” As explained to me by one of the docents, Dr. Simeone tended to collect sports cars that were raced in period. The collection is extensive with over 60 cars presented. Their website Simeonemuseum.org provides the entire list. Noteworthy to me were a 1952 Jaguar C-Type, a 1956 Jaguar D-Type, a 1954 Ferrari 375 Mille Miglia, a 1959 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, a one of six 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, and the 1970 Porsche 917 “Hippie Car”. About 25% of the collection is non-raced street cars from before WWII. Think marques such are Bentley, Stutz, Dusenburg, Bugatti, Alfa Romeo, Delahaye, and Auburn.
You can probably do a quick walkthrough in an hour but I would schedule several hours, as there is a lot to see and read. Many of the cars are presented in a diorama style with period accesories and photos on display. Of special interest, if you can arrange it, is to attend one of the museum’s Demo Days, where they start and drive a few of the collection’s cars on the tarmac behind the museum. Again, check their website for details.
The museum is a quick detour off of I-95 in Philadelphia. It is a great place to take a break from your driving slog up the east coast corridor. You will not be disappointed.
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