Row upon row upon row of lovingly restored, colorful and gleaming classic cars so shiny you can see yourself in them. Automotive memorabilia, from vintage gas pumps to road signs and traffic signals. A Motor City diner serving up the tasty treats we used to order from the car hop at a drive-in. That’s Rick Treworgy's Muscle Car City, Charlotte Harbor’s latest attraction that has baby boomers and their kids and grandkids buzzing.
Set to open March 1, 2009, and located near I-75 in Punta Gorda, Rick Treworgy's Muscle Car City features nearly 200 automobiles of every era dating back to the 1920s. As per its name, the museum’s major focus is on the “muscle cars” of the mid 60s to early 70s – the Pontiac GTOs, Chevy Corvettes, Oldsmobile Cutlass 442s, Chevelles, Camaros and high-horsepower Impalas that revved up the imaginations of teens and young adults all over America. The museum includes a cafe and gift shop for those who want to savor the memories, from T-shirts, posters and jewelry to neon signs and gas pumps. The diner will offer cheesesteak sandwiches, fresh salads, homemade ice cream, milkshakes and root beer floats, Key Lime pie and apple cobbler, along with hamburgers, hot dogs and French fries.
According to Becky Bovell, director of the Charlotte Harbor Visitor & Convention Bureau, “Muscle Car City Museum is a stunning showplace, a perfect indoor complement to the many outdoor activities in Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Islands for residents and visitors alike.”
Rick Treworgy fell in love with cars in the 1960s. Unlike most other guys, he has continued to trade and acquire them like some people collect fishing flies. Pontiac GTOs? He has 12 of them. Chevy Corvettes? He owns 64, one from every series from 1964 to1975, plus some newer ones. For those who share his passion, a speed shop is located next to the museum, offering parts and accessories for tricking out your own ride
This museum promises to be a fun exciting and educational experience for young and old,” says Rick. “Car shows and cruises will be a regular happening here, so bring out your toys.”
3811 Tamiami Trl
Punta Gorda, FL 33950-7900
Admission: $10 onetime pass, $30 annual pass. Children under 12 free with adult.