Harley-Davidson Museum Tours and Activities

Harley-Davidson Museum featuring interior views
Harley-Davidson Museum showing interior views
Harley-Davidson Museum featuring interior views
Harley-Davidson Museum which includes interior views
Photo provided by NC Tourism - Bill Russ


Delve into the history of one of the world’s most famous motorcycle brands via interactive exhibits, photo galleries, workshops and behind-the-scenes tours.

At Milwaukee’s Harley-Davidson Museum, the history of one of the most well-known motorcycle brands in the world comes to life. Find over 450 motorcycles, including famous models and rare custom-made bikes. Tour comprehensive galleries and visit fascinating exhibits tracing the evolution of Harley-Davidson from its foundation in 1903 to the present day. The museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the motorcycling world.

Major highlights of the museum are The Harley Davidson Journey and The Motorcycle Gallery exhibits, spread over the museum’s upper and lower levels. On the upper floor, you’ll find bikes, models and photo galleries retracing the first five decades of Harley-Davidson production. Look for the Serial Number One, the oldest motorcycle in the brand’s collection. The lower floor galleries showcase events from the 1940s to the present. 

Witness the evolution of engine design in the Engine Room, where you can see a reconstruction of the 1940s Knucklehead. Head to the Experience Gallery to sit in the saddle of a bike and enjoy a virtual ride through famous roads in the U.S. Spot custom-made bikes in the Custom Culture exhibit, including the 13-feet (4-meter) long King Kong and a bike used in the film Easy Rider. Don’t miss the opportunity to design your own motorcycle in the interactive Build-a-Bike room.   

Visit the museum shop to find leather jackets, T-shirts, books, limited edition posters and badges. Become part of the brand’s legacy by purchasing a personalized rivet to be displayed on the museum’s walls. Round out your visit at the Motor Bar and Restaurant, which serves up classic American fare such as burgers and barbecue ribs.

The Harley-Davidson Museum is a 5-minute drive from Cathedral Square, in downtown Milwaukee. Plenty of free on-site parking is available. Public buses also stop close to the museum’s entrance. The museum is open daily and entry fees apply, with discounts for children. Check the museum’s official website for a schedule and prices of the various guided tours offered.

Plan a trip to see Harley-Davidson Museum

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Super 8 by Wyndham Sturtevant/Racine
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Milwaukee Airport by IHG
Wildwood Lodge

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Best Lodging Options Near Harley-Davidson Museum

Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Downtown

Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Downtown

3 out of 5
700 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI
Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Downtown
The Iron Horse Hotel

The Iron Horse Hotel

4 out of 5
500 W Florida Street, Milwaukee, WI
The Iron Horse Hotel
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

4.5 out of 5
1611 West Canal Street, Milwaukee, WI
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
The Pfister Hotel

The Pfister Hotel

4.5 out of 5
424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI
The Pfister Hotel
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

4 out of 5
139 E Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee

Hyatt Regency Milwaukee

4 out of 5
333 W Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee Downtown

2.5 out of 5
176 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee Downtown
Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown

Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown

3 out of 5
503 N Plankinton Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown
Ambassador Hotel Milwaukee, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Ambassador Hotel Milwaukee, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

4 out of 5
2308 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Ambassador Hotel Milwaukee, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Harley-Davidson Museum

At the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, you can enjoy a variety of activities including bike shows, live music, and local festivals. Consider taking a ride to nearby attractions or unwinding at a nearby golf course. The area offers a vibrant experience that complements the museum's rich history, making it a fantastic destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the Harley-Davidson Museum, visit the Milwaukee Public Market and The Shops of Grand Avenue, both located 805m away, offering a vibrant mix of city and family vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out the West Allis Farmers Market, 6.4km away.

Recreation

Catch an exhilarating game at Fiserv Forum, just 1.4km from the museum. Experience live music at The Rave-Eagles Club, 1.6km away, for entertainment. For a serene escape, stroll through Lakefront Park, 3.2km away, where you can unwind amidst nature's beauty.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Milwaukee Mile, a premier motor racing venue located 8.0km away, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For family fun, the David F. Schulz Aquatic Center offers a waterpark experience, also 8.0km away, while the Sky Safari cable car gondola, 9.7km away, provides stunning outdoor views.

Nightlife

The nightlife near the Harley-Davidson Museum buzzes with excitement. Catch a show at the Riverside Theater, only 0.9.7km away, or enjoy a film at the Warner Grand Theater, a mere 805m away. For a cultural experience, the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, 1.1km from the museum, is a must-visit.

Find the best attractions near Harley-Davidson Museum

While visiting the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, make sure to explore nearby attractions such as urban parks, historic colleges, and art museums. These points of interest offer a blend of culture, family-friendly experiences, and outdoor activities. Don't miss the chance to delve into the rich history at the Davidson Museum and enjoy the vibrant local scene surrounding the iconic Harley-Davidson Museum.

  • Marquette University: This historic institution, located 1.4km from the Harley-Davidson Museum, offers a vibrant campus atmosphere. Explore its beautiful architecture and lush green spaces while soaking up the cultural vibes that resonate throughout the university.
  • Baird Center: Situated 966m away, the Baird Center serves as a premier event and conference venue. Experience the business vibes within this modern facility, hosting a variety of events that cater to both professionals and the community.
  • Milwaukee Art Museum: Just 1.6km from the Harley-Davidson Museum, this iconic art museum boasts an impressive collection of artwork and stunning architecture. Dive into the rich cultural experience that the museum has to offer, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Harley-Davidson Museum

Visitor numbers around Harley-Davidson Museum is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Harley-Davidson Museum can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Harley-Davidson Museum falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Harley-Davidson Museum falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January22.1°F (-5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February23.5°F (-4.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
March34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December29.7°F (-1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harley-Davidson Museum

To save money on your visit to the Harley-Davidson Museum, consider travelling during the off-peak months of November to January, when accommodation prices are lower. Aim for a stay on a Monday, the most affordable day, and avoid Saturdays when rates spike. Explore free attractions nearby, such as Marquette University and Potawatomi Bingo Casino. Use Expedia to find cheap hotel deals by filtering prices and combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Look for special offers to make the most of your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Harley-Davidson Museum are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Harley-Davidson Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Harley-Davidson Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on costs by combining your hotel stay near the Harley-Davidson Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.