This visually impressive modern museum at Glasgow Harbor owes its striking curved forms to late British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid. A transport museum forms the collection's main part, featuring a fascinating series of cars made in Scotland, plus assorted railway locos, trams, bikes (including the world's first pedal-powered bicycle from 1847) and model Clyde-built ships. An atmospheric re-creation of a Glasgow shopping street from the early 20th century puts the vintage vehicles into a social context. There's also a cafe.
It's west of the city center. Get bus 100 from the north side of George Sq or walk (signposted) from the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – about half a mile.
The magnificent three-masted Glenlee, launched in 1896, is the tall ship that's berthed alongside the museum. On board are family-friendly displays about the ship's history, restoration and shipboard life during its heyday. Upkeep costs are high, so donate something or have a coffee below decks.
