Tucson residents have just learned that the Tucson Auto Museum, a 15‑year‑old showcase of classic automobiles, will close its doors by the end of 2025. The museum, which has drawn car enthusiasts from across Arizona and even from overseas, will remain open to the public through the year’s final weeks, offering a last opportunity for locals to walk its showroom before the collection is auctioned.
According to KGUN, museum director Otton Suarez said the museum’s location, though relatively new, has welcomed visitors from “different parts of the state and actually different parts of the world.” He highlighted the personal passion that sparked the collection, recalling his childhood love of cars and the privilege of owning many vehicles before acquiring the historic pieces now on display.
The showroom features a range of storied classics, including polished Cadillacs, iconic Mustangs and a gleaming Mercedes. Suarez emphasized that the museum has become a community hub where “individuals that came for a meeting, families, and kids listening to grandparents” share stories tied to the cars, creating lasting memories across generations.
In a bittersweet statement, Suarez noted, “They’ll be moving on, and it’s bittersweet that they’re leaving, but glad that they are… Some of them will stay here in Tucson.” To keep the vehicles in the area, Suarez has partnered with local auctioneer John Kruse. Kruse described the upcoming sale as “an outstanding opportunity for Tucson and the area to come and enjoy the museum one last time, but also have an opportunity to acquire maybe one of these great pieces of memorabilia or automobiles.”
The auction is scheduled for Jan. 28, and interested bidders can find details on Kruse Auction’s website. Until then, the museum will stay open, allowing the community to view the collection one final time.
What’s next: The museum will remain open through the end of 2025. Residents can visit the showroom before the closure and prepare to participate in the Jan. 28 auction if they wish to keep any of the classic cars in Tucson.
Sources: kgun9.com
