Considering the automotive industry’s longstanding relationship with Flint, the city makes an ideal stop for gearheads of all ages.
This weekend, for instance, they can celebrate the 50th anniversaries of the Camaro, Firebird and Cougar during the 45th Sloan Museum Auto Fair, held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 24, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 25.
Also on Saturday, 80s in the Hole will bring together an 80s-themed car show, music from Jedi Mind Trip and more at the Chevy Commons a.k.a. Chevy in the Hole.
Looking forward to next month, car buffs are encouraged to check out Be a Tourist in Your Home Town, hosted by the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce and MTA. On Saturday, July 15, visitors can purchase a $1 passport, which grants them admission and transportation to more than 25 attractions – automotive and otherwise – in Flint.
Among the sites that will resonate most with auto enthusiasts are:
Applewood, 1400 E. Kearsley St., Flint
The former estate of Charles Stewart Mott – the former dean of General Motors directors – is open to the public, with strolling tours of the home’s first floor and guided tour of the gardens. The gardens and exhibits are also open for self-exploration throughout the day.
Durant-Dort Factory One, 303 W. Water St., Flint
Originally established in 1886 as the Flint Road Cart Co., this historic Flint General Motors’ plant is considered to be the company’s birthplace and epicenter of the global auto industry. Following a four-year renovation, the facility now offers event space and is home to Kettering University’s archives – which includes thousands of historic documents, photos and artifacts related to Flint's GM history. The facility is available by appointment only, and will provide tours throughout “Be a Tourist.”
Kettering University – GM Mobility Research Center Since October 2015, Kettering University has provided space for students, staff and corporate partners to test and develop autonomous vehicle technology. Future development includes a course for self-driving cars as well as a proving ground for new self-driving vehicle automation. During “Be A Tourist,” visitors can check out Formula SAE Race Cars in action at the 3.25-acre test pad – built to race track performance specifications.
Sloan Museum, 1221 E. Kearsley St., Flint
With a focus on regional history, historic automobiles and hands-on science, Sloan Museum offers a variety of exhibitions. Flint and the American Dream,” for instance, takes visitors on a fascinating journey through Flint in the 20th century – from the birth of the auto industry to the present. Here, visitors encounter the ups and downs of General Motors, the birth of the UAW, Flint’s role as the “Arsenal of Democracy” and what life was like during the 50s, 60s and 70s.
For more information, or to pre-register for Be a Tourist, click here.
