The Cobra Experience is a non-profit museum dedicated to the promotion, restoration, training and restoration of Shelby American automobiles. The 7.2 surround sound HD film, not just about the cars themselves, but about the American story of Ford and Shelby, is exclusive to our museum. The ultimate goal is to teach you throughout the 1960s about the remarkable achievements of Ford and Shelby American. They began with nothing and won every big race in 1964, including Le Mans in the GT class, and FOUR times in a row overall from 1966-1969, for a total of FIVE! It’s such a huge part of the history of racing and this legacy has to be said!

The Cobra Experience is a non-profit museum dedicated to the promotion, restoration, training and restoration of Shelby American automobiles. In the 1960s, the Shelby Cobra stole the auto racing enthusiast ‘s heart and imagination. Amongst others, Carroll Shelby, the facilitator of the popular Shelby Cobra, GT40, Daytona Coupe, and GT350, campaigned for cars at Shelby American in Southern California from 1962 to 1968. These cars remain giants because of their contributions to the growth of this country’s muscle car industry.

The linchpin of the Cobra Experience is the promotion, conservation, education and preservation of the cars produced by Shelby America. Drew Serb, founder and curator, was captivated by the Cobra in the early ‘ 70s and began his journey of restoration and devotion to this unique vehicle. He gained experience with Cobra repairs over the years and accrued an enviable collection of spare parts, artifacts, and memorabilia. He wanted to share with the public these increasingly rare vehicles, and he was able to turn his passion for cars into the Cobra experience. With his wife, Janet, and daughters, Emily and Kate, he is lucky to run this museum. The Serbian family has always been in the East Bay area, and is very proud that they can share their passion with the city. What they hope to achieve is further education for the masses, and particularly for the next generation.

The Cobra Experience in Martinez, CA, is a 25,000 SF museum and includes original Cobra’s, Shelby Mustangs, Daytona Coupe, GT40, King Cobra, Sunbeam Tigers and a Lotus. 24 cars are currently on display, although this number fluctuates from month to month. As it was in the 60’s at Shelby American, there are engine and wheel exhibits, posters, photographs and a shop scene. A 40-seat surround sound theater featuring an HD film about cars and the American story of Ford and Shelby is exclusive to the museum.

The facility can be rented for events and can hold up to 300 guests. The theater seats up to 40, and there is a small group board room / library, and a lounge seating up to 80 that adjoins the large covered patio area and kitchen.

Image courtesy of Jeffreymendel Jeffrey Nash – Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=50308966

After visiting the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, California, make sure to stop by these other gems:

  • Rankin Aquatic Center
  • Mt Wanda
  • Hidden Lakes Park
  • Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline
  • Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park
  • Barrel Aged Cocktail Bar at Barrelista
  • Roxx On Main
  • Five Suns Brewing

All of these secret spots are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete at 1461 Locust Street!