Harley-Davidson Museum
A world-class museum in Milwaukee chronicles more than a century’s worth of Harley-Davidson history.
Since the facility first opened its doors on July 12, 2008, hundreds of thousands of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts, riders and non-riders alike, from the world over have made the pilgrimage to the Motorcycle Mecca.
We’re talking of course about the Harley-Davidson Museum located at 6th and Canal in the heart of the Menomonee Valley in Milwaukee, USA. The museum site was formerly used by the Milwaukee Department of Public Works, and the conversion of the 20-acre campus has dramatically transformed and revitalized the surrounding area.
The Harley-Davidson Museum is literally a “walk-through history” that is portrayed through its themed galleries, a must-see motorcycle collection, and many rare documents and original artifacts you will only find here.
Of course, the H-D Museum would not have attained its world-class reputation without a dedicated team working together as one. From the moment guests step on the H-D Museum campus, Harley-Davidson employees are there to greet them and help make sure the visit is a memorable one.
Behind the scenes, curators and archivists work diligently to share the 118 years of history and relay how the H-D grew from humble beginnings to become a global icon.
“The Museum not only tells the story of Harley-Davidson, it’s where our history, heritage and passion come to life. The freedom, pride and camaraderie of Harley-Davidson riders are always on display here,” said Bill Davidson, vice president of the Harley-Davidson Museum and great-grandson of company founder William A. Davidson.
Some of the highlights in the collection include:
• The oldest Harley-Davidson in existence – Serial No. 1
• A replica board track complete with race bikes banking on a corner
• A movie sampling of Hollywood’s best motorcycle moments
• The inspiring stories of personal freedom that only a Harley-Davidson can bring to people
• A replica of the original 10x15 foot shed where the Harley-Davidson story was born
• The largest collection of unrestored Harley-Davidsons in the world – many fresh from the factory floor
And everyone wears and ear-to-ear grin when they get a chance to throw a leg over a Harley-Davidson motorcycle in the Experience Gallery. Do it for the ‘gram!
If you’re a fan of the all-new Pan America™ (and really, who isn’t?), be sure to stop over to take in “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” on display now. This exhibit tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” is sure to thrill those who prefer the road less traveled.
The Museum campus is a hub of activity year-round. And the calendar is always full of legendary events that can only be found at the H-D Museum. If you’re in town for Mama Tried and the Flat Out Friday shenanigans, be sure to stop by Motor Bar & Restaurant® on Thursday Dec. 2 for the official pre-party, kicking off at 5 p.m.
And look out for new exhibits, new party spaces and more in 2022. Check out HDMuseum.com or follow the H-D Museum on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to stay hip.