Driving across South Dakota on I-90, you might find yourself passing through the small town of Murdo. It’s a convenient midpoint for many travelers, and for those with an interest in automotive history, it’s home to a hidden gem: the Pioneer Auto Show. More than just a collection of vintage vehicles, this expansive museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, making it a worthwhile stop on any American road trip.
For years, as a classic car enthusiast, I’d seen the billboards beckoning travelers to the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, SD. My usual route to Arizona took me right through Murdo, but the thought of adding a stop to a long driving day always seemed daunting. Concerns about time, coupled with the website’s mention of variable winter hours, kept me from experiencing what this roadside attraction had to offer. However, a summer trip changed everything. The longer daylight hours and the irresistible call of those billboards finally convinced me to pull over and explore.
Alt text: A vibrant 1950s Buick sedan with gleaming chrome trim and classic whitewall tires, showcased at the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, South Dakota.
Stepping into the Pioneer Auto Show is like stepping back in time. While you’ll certainly find beautifully restored classics, like the Buick pictured here, the exhibit goes beyond pristine perfection. You’ll discover unique and quirky vehicles, including a memorable wooden car powered by twin V-8 engines – a testament to ingenuity and automotive creativity. Adding to the star power, one of the original 17 “General Lee” Dodge Chargers from the Dukes of Hazzard TV series is proudly displayed. The collection is vast and varied, showcasing not only iconic models but also a wide array of everyday vehicles from bygone eras. While some cars are displayed in a more crowded fashion, making close interior inspection challenging, most are well-identified with informative signage detailing their history and significance.
Alt text: A unique wooden-bodied car with two powerful V-8 engines, a standout exhibit at the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, South Dakota, highlighting automotive innovation.
Don’t expect a high-end concours event here; the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo has a more down-to-earth, museum-like atmosphere, blending automotive history with a touch of pioneer spirit. It’s a place that resonates with genuine car lovers and history buffs alike. TripAdvisor reviews often rate it as “Excellent” to “Very Good,” and I would concur with the “Very Good” assessment. If you have any appreciation for vintage cars or motorcycles, this stop is well worth your time.
Alt text: Rows of classic cars under a covered shed at the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, South Dakota, displaying a diverse collection of automotive history.
Motorcycle enthusiasts will be delighted to find an entire building dedicated to antique motorcycles. Among the highlights is a Harley-Davidson once owned by Elvis Presley. This striking blue motorcycle, customized in a style befitting the King of Rock and Roll, is a major draw. While photographing it proved difficult due to its plexiglass enclosure and reflections, seeing it in person is a treat for any motorcycle fan.
Alt text: Exterior of the motorcycle museum building at the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, South Dakota, promising a rich collection of vintage bikes inside.
Beyond the vehicles, the Pioneer Auto Show compound incorporates historic buildings relocated from around South Dakota, creating a charming “pioneer village” atmosphere. Scattered around the grounds, you’ll even find vintage Burma Shave advertising signs, those small sequential signs that once lined American highways, offering a nostalgic touch of roadside Americana. These signs, proclaiming “Past the Schoolhouse,” “Take it slow,” “Let the little,” “shavers grow,” “Burma Shave,” evoke a sense of simpler travel days.
Alt text: Vintage Burma Shave advertising signs displayed outside a schoolhouse at the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, South Dakota, offering a nostalgic glimpse into roadside advertising history.
The story of the Pioneer Auto Show began in 1954 with A. J. (Dick) Geisler and his family. Starting with a few classic cars to attract customers to his Murdo gas station, Geisler’s collection quickly grew as the cars proved to be a major draw. This humble beginning blossomed into the Murdo Pioneer Auto Show we see today, boasting over 275 vehicles, alongside 60 tractors, 60 motorcycles, and a wide array of other collectibles. It’s a testament to one man’s passion and the enduring appeal of automotive history.
Alt text: An overview of a section of the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, South Dakota, showcasing the extensive outdoor display of classic vehicles and buildings.
For those interested in acquiring a piece of automotive history, select vehicles at the Pioneer Auto Show are sometimes offered for sale through their website. Operating hours vary seasonally, particularly during winter (November to April), so checking their website (http://www.pioneerautoshow.com/) for the most up-to-date information is recommended before planning your visit. During the summer months, they are open daily, with slightly adjusted weekend hours. Admission is reasonably priced, making it an accessible attraction for families and solo travelers alike. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring this expansive museum – longer if you’re a dedicated car enthusiast. Even if cars aren’t everyone’s primary interest, the pioneer village and diverse memorabilia offer something for the whole family. And for a sweet treat, the Covered Wagon Cafe serves up real ice cream, the perfect way to conclude your visit. The Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, SD is more than just a roadside stop; it’s a journey through automotive and pioneer history that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
