Automuseum Melle

About the museum

The Automuseum was founded in 1984 in Ibbenbüren on private initiative; co-founder Heiner Rössler still shapes the concept "Geschichte auf Rädern" (history on wheels) today. The vehicles are mostly loans from collectors, so the exhibition is constantly changing – over the years, several thousand different historic vehicles have already been on display.

Because space in Ibbenbüren was no longer sufficient, the museum moved in 1997 to Melle, into the former Melchersmann furniture factory on Pestelstraße. The listed industrial building had stood empty for a long time after the end of Melle's furniture industry in the 1970s; its three floors with high ceilings and load-bearing floors offer plenty of space for the collection.

Today the museum shows more than 250 exhibits preserved in running condition – from steam cars of around 1900 through small and microcars of the postwar period to racing cars and prototypes, plus motorcycles, bicycles, models, and a collection of baby carriages. The museum is run by a non-profit limited company in which the town of Melle also holds a stake, and very substantially by volunteers.

Highlights

• Over 250 roadworthy vehicles on three floors
• Listed former furniture factory
• Early steam and electric cars around 1900
• Microcars of the 1950s such as the Isetta and Goggomobil
• Baby carriage collection and model vehicles
• After-work tour every second Wednesday

Permanent exhibitions

• Dauerausstellung „Geschichte auf Rädern“ – More than 250 roadworthy cars, motorcycles, bicycles, military and racing vehicles as well as models and baby carriages throughout the factory building.

Founded

1984

Operated by

Geschichte auf Rädern Automuseum Melle gGmbH

Director

Andreas Dreier (Geschäftsführer), Rafael Dzielecki (Betriebsleiter)

Admission & discounts

Tickets at the ticket desk (cash or EC card). Gift vouchers available; KUKUK partner.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Elevator to all levels, wheelchair-accessible restrooms on the ground floor, sufficiently wide paths, accessible parking spaces in the inner courtyard. The entrance door does not open automatically – the reception team helps. A loan wheelchair is available. Dogs are allowed on a leash.

Kids & families

• Baby changing facilities

Baby changing room on the ground floor; family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children.

Getting there & parking

EV charging stations at Melle station.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Museum shop
• Lockers

Museum café with cake, coffee, drinks, and ice cream; museum shop with souvenirs on site; lockers on the ground floor.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events
• Weddings / ceremonies

Exclusive rental for company parties, product presentations, weddings, receptions, and private celebrations; also club meetings, rally stops, and photo and film productions.

Plan your visit