Two different friends recently headed off to Milwaukee for work functions, and I demanded that they make time to visit the Harley Davidson Museum. First, let me just say that Milwaukee is a delightful road trip destination. Not only does it require travel through Wisconsin, the mother lode of visionary art and all-around weird tourist attractions (House on the Rock - need I say more?), but it's a robust urban environment with a wealth of cultural attractions. One of these, the Harley Davidson Museum, is both a community center and an homage to the inspired design and fascinating history of the "chopper."
The museum traces Harley Davidson's transformation from a small shop that tinkered with "motorized bicycles" to an American cultural icon and way of life. It's a fascinating corporate history (that's not afraid to give us a peek at some darker days), delivered with the same custom design and gorgeous aesthetic that have lured customers for decades. The best part of the museum, however, isn't inside. Visit on a summer evening and you're likely to find scores of Harley owners parked with their bikes in the outdoor plaza created just for them. Grab a brat and a beer (it's Milwaukee after all) and mingle with the proud owners. For one night, at least, you will belong to the Harley community; and damn, it feels good to be cool!
No comments:
Post a Comment