Just like sports, there is a Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. It's a type of mecca for many bikers, and motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world travel to Pickerington, Ohio, to visit the museum. Pickerington is a suburb of Columbus. The museum is a part of the American Motorcyclist Association, a group that recognizes outstanding individuals who have contributed to motorcycling, motorcycle construction, racing, and promotion. In addition to displaying information about those inducted into the hall of fame, the museum also features motorcycles, riding gear, and other motorcycle memorabilia.
Another part of the museum is the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation. This nonprofit foundation provides the funds that keep the museum running. The foundation focuses on preserving the heritage of motorcycle riding through the museum. They also strive to create an archive of motorcycle-related publications, photographs and records so that the history of riding will never die out.
In addition to the hall of fame, the museum features a number of rotating exhibits. Currently, these include an exhibit on dirt-track racing in America and an exhibit on Honda motorcycles made in Ohio. Past exhibits have included a look at celebrities who ride motorcycles, the life of Arlen Ness, and a display dedicated to Malcolm Smith, a hall of fame biker. Another interesting exhibit focused on American motorcycle clubs and displayed pins, biker patches, uniforms, and photos from clubs across the U.S.
The museum and hall of fame are open year-round (closed on some holidays), seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are a number of nearby lodging options and other attractions in Columbus, so you can make a full vacation out of your visit.
