Step into a world unlike any other when you visit Bill’s Bike Barn, a truly unique attraction nestled in Bloomsburg, PA. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; once inside this converted building next to the sign for Bill’s Bike Barn, prepare to be amazed. Visitors are consistently struck by the sheer volume and eclectic nature of the collections, often reacting with gasps of surprise and wonder. More than just a display of vintage motorcycles, Bill’s Bike Barn is an immersive experience, a hidden gem of Americana waiting to be explored. For a modest entry fee of just $5, you’ll gain access to an astonishing world, far exceeding any expectations from its roadside appearance. To give you a taste of what awaits, here are the top 5 must-see exhibits at Bill’s Bike Barn.
A Journey Through Time at Bill’s Bike Barn
To truly appreciate the marvel that is Bill’s Bike Barn, it’s worth understanding its origins. For four decades, Bill Morris operated a custom cycle shop, a venture that organically grew into a treasure trove of motorcycle parts. As he acquired other shops and expanded into mail order parts, Bill amassed a significant inventory. This accumulation of parts initially necessitated the very building that now houses his extraordinary collection.
However, Bill’s passion extended far beyond motorcycles. He was a collector at heart, drawn to a diverse array of fascinating objects. Carousel horses, Disney memorabilia, military artifacts, keychains – the list goes on. To properly showcase and share his ever-growing collection, he needed a dedicated space.
Fast forward ten years from its initial parts storage purpose, and the building now encompasses over 50,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles. The primary structure is a repurposed green metal pole barn, seemingly ordinary from the outside. But upon entering, you’re transported to another era. Remarkably, inside this metal building stands a meticulously reconstructed barn from the 1800s. Piece by piece, a historic barn was dismantled and rebuilt within the modern structure, creating an incredible juxtaposition of old and new.
Welcome to “Billville,” a whimsical village within Bill’s Bike Barn. Wander through mock storefronts including a mansion facade, a smoke shop, a music store, and even a recreation of a 1939 World’s Fair Bar. To fully absorb the experience, plan to spend ample time exploring this captivating space.
Top 5 Must-See Exhibits at Bill’s Bike Barn
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Bill’s Bike Barn boasts an incredibly diverse range of exhibits, ensuring there’s something to captivate every visitor. While personal preferences vary, here are five standout exhibits that consistently impress, based on numerous visits. We encourage you to discover your own favorites during your visit!
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Vintage Motorcycle Majesty: Even for those who may not consider themselves motorcycle enthusiasts, the vintage motorcycle collection at Bill’s Bike Barn is undeniably captivating. Featuring over 100 motorcycles, the exhibit showcases rare and highly sought-after models. Highlights include a 1909 Peugeot, a 1917 Harley Davidson complete with a sidecar, and a 1930 Harley Davidson. For a truly unique sight, don’t miss the Moto Guzzi Dump Truck – a motorcycle ingeniously integrated into a truck body. This collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of motorcycle design and engineering.
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Military History Immersion: The military display at Bill’s Bike Barn provides a powerful and immersive experience. Complete with a recreated foxhole, a pristine ‘45 NOS Military bike, and a formidable 30 caliber machine gun, the exhibit evokes a sense of historical context. Adding to the atmosphere is a palm tree draped with Spanish moss, seemingly incongruous yet adding to the unique character of the display. Overhead, a 1940 Military parachute dramatically drapes over the entire exhibit, enhancing the sense of stepping back in time.
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Circus Spectacle: Prepare to be dazzled by the circus exhibit, where giant vintage circus posters and signs adorn the walls from floor to ceiling. Surrounding these vibrant visuals is a menagerie of carousel animals, including a diverse collection of horses and other creatures. Adding a touch of whimsy and nostalgia, you’ll also encounter a wide array of vintage clown dolls and other circus-related memorabilia. This vibrant and colorful exhibit captures the excitement and spectacle of the golden age of the circus.
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Firehouse Relics: Step into the firehouse exhibit and be greeted by a full-size vintage fire engine, a testament to firefighting history. Alongside the engine is a compelling display of fireman’s equipment, including antique coats and helmets, offering a glimpse into the tools and gear of firefighters past. Adding a unique Bill’s Bike Barn touch, you’ll also find a couple of firehouse-themed motorcycles within this area. The fire engine itself has an interesting backstory, added to the collection after being gifted by visitors who knew of its previous display in a Harrisburg museum.
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The Man Himself: Bill Morris: One of the most unique aspects of Bill’s Bike Barn is the opportunity to potentially meet the collector himself, Bill Morris. If he’s on-site, make a point to seek him out and engage in conversation. Bill’s personal stories behind each item, gathered from countless trips across the US and overseas, are as fascinating as the objects themselves. For an alternative personal tour, consider renting the audio tour. Bill’s voice guides you through the labyrinthine collection, providing insights and anecdotes that bring the exhibits to life.
When planning your visit to Bill’s Bike Barn, allocate at least two hours to fully explore the indoor exhibits. And remember, the exploration begins even before you enter the building – keep an eye out for the outdoor displays, including the iconic dinosaurs, as you approach the entrance. Bill’s Bike Barn is truly a remarkable and unexpected destination, a hidden gem of Americana that promises a memorable experience. If you are staying at the Inn at Turkey Hill, we would be delighted to provide directions to this extraordinary attraction.
