For a nice change of pace in the family-outing department, let me suggest the Red Barns car show and swap meet happening at the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners on Saturday, August 2. Admission is only $10 per person, with children 11 and under entering for free. If you have a family heirloom sitting in the garage, load up the gang and bring it along. Show registration is only $20 which includes two passes to the show and full entry into the museum proper.

For years car shows were considered a “guys” venue, with the paint and horsepower only appealing to hot rodders and boys in men’s clothing. Nowadays, car shows  have evolved into a rolling art exhibit, sharing a glimpse into America’s culture from the standpoint of the highway. Finely restored and preserved motoring pieces grace the show field, testaments to the ability and ingenuity that has shaped the world we live in throughout the decades. Collectors and owners have invested thousands of hours and untold blood, sweat and tears to bring these motoring icons back to life. From Whippets and Nash’s to Corvettes and Kaisers, the Gilmore museum grounds will be teeming with memories for mom and dad and awe-inspiring rides for the young at heart. It might even be all you need to get fired up and drag grandpas old Ford out of the barn and start in on your own restoration.

The Red Barns Spectacular is celebrating its 34th year of presentation, a celebration in its own rite. Often called the “Grand Daddy” of antique and classic car shows in the West Michigan area, the meeting place offers several chances to immerse oneself in automobile history. The Gilmore Museum (6865 Hickory Rd, Hickory Corners, MI 49060) is a rich classroom for the Kalamazoo-area auto industry (hailed as the second Detroit). The museum exhibit hosts over 300 examples of auto history as well as an authentic working 1940s diner, service station display and car dealerships from a time when fins, chrome and jet flight tickled America’s fancy. It is open every day and welcomes visitors looking for a piece of Americana.

Directions to the museum can be found at their website, http://www.gilmorecarmuseum.org/. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and enjoy a fun-filled family day.