Just off California State Route 74, nestled in the quiet warmth of Sun City, you’ll find a place where the engines never truly stop humming and the past feels just a clutch shift away. The Motte Historical Museum isn’t your typical roadside pit stop — it’s a beautifully restored barn turned classic car haven and local history archive. Whether you’re a gearhead, a nostalgia buff, or just someone who loves a good story, this museum has something for everyone.
Built by the Motte family — long-standing members of the Menifee Valley community — this museum is as much a tribute to family legacy as it is a celebration of Southern California’s car culture. Walk through the doors, and you’re stepping into a lovingly preserved world where vintage cars, Route 66 memorabilia, and hometown history all converge.
What We Love
Antique Cars That Tell a Story
The shining stars here are the jaw-dropping classic cars — from polished Packards to pre-war Fords — each one lovingly preserved with its own placard of backstory. You’ll feel like you’ve walked onto a 1950s showroom floor, and the warm wood walls and vintage signage only add to the immersive effect.
Local Legends and Family Roots
The Motte family’s history is interwoven with the museum itself. Old photographs, newspaper clippings, and family relics give a behind-the-scenes peek into the lives of early settlers and the farming roots of the area. It’s a museum that feels personal — and that makes it feel real.
Pop Culture Treasures
Alongside the antique autos and historical displays, you’ll find retro movie posters, jukeboxes, and vintage gasoline pumps. It’s a delightfully quirky mix of Americana that will make you want to throw on a leather jacket and dance to Elvis.
Event Space With Character
The Motte Museum doubles as an event venue, and you’ll quickly understand why. Between the rustic charm of the architecture and the museum’s warm lighting, it’s a dream spot for weddings, reunions, and car shows. Even if you’re not attending an event, it’s fun to imagine the space lit up and bustling.
Super Friendly Hosts
Whether it’s a member of the Motte family or a volunteer, the folks here love sharing their knowledge and memories. Don’t be surprised if you’re greeted with a smile and a story — this is one of those places where the people are just as memorable as the artifacts.
Atmosphere & Setting
The vibe here is peaceful and full of pride — part rustic barn, part gleaming showroom. Weathered wooden beams meet polished concrete floors, while jazz and doo-wop tunes softly hum from hidden speakers. Sunlight filters through high windows, dancing across chrome bumpers and license plates from decades past. There’s a sense of discovery at every corner, whether you’re admiring a vintage Harley or paging through a family scrapbook in the museum nook. It’s cozy, genuine, and surprisingly cinematic.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Admission is donation-based, making it one of the most affordable — and rewarding — historical stops in the region. Most visitors spend about 45 minutes to an hour, but car lovers might linger even longer. It’s an especially great stop for families, nostalgic day-trippers, history teachers, and anyone doing a scenic drive through Riverside County. If you’ve got an appreciation for craftsmanship, legacy, or a good ol’ V8 engine, you’ll walk away with a grin.
Other Considerations
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Parking: Easy and free, with plenty of space for even the most oversized vehicles.
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Hours: Typically open limited days (often Thursday–Saturday); check their website or social media for current hours before visiting.
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Accessibility: The museum is mostly flat and walkable, with accessible entrances and restrooms.
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Weather Tips: It’s mostly indoors, so it’s a great escape from the SoCal heat — but the barn-style space can get warm in mid-afternoon.
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Food: No café on site, but several local diners and fast-casual joints are just a short drive away in Sun City or Menifee.
Whether you’re exploring Inland Empire history or just looking for a unique detour with old-school charm, the Motte Historical Museum is a sweet stop worth making. It’s where local love, vintage wheels, and heartfelt storytelling all ride in the same lane.
Motte Historical Museum
📍 28380 CA-74, Sun City, CA 92585