WARREN, Ohio – Mary Ann Porinchak, executive director of the National Packard Museum, is inviting the community to take a nostalgic ride through the museum’s newest exhibit, “My First Bike,” a motorcycle showcase designed to reconnect visitors with the excitement and freedom of their very first ride.
Now in its 26th year of special exhibits, the museum’s latest feature brings together more than 30 motorcycles from collectors across Trumbull County, northeastern Ohio and even Pittsburgh, creating what Porinchak describes as “a walk back in time.”
The exhibit includes a wide range of bikes – from early Harley and Excelsior models to rare and unique machines, including a 2008 Evel Knievel bike created as a fundraiser for the Buffalo Bills and signed by players.
Porinchak says the goal is to spark memories and emotion as visitors move through the display, many of whom may be seeing some of these motorcycles in person for the first time after only encountering them in magazines or books.
“My First Bike” will open Jan. 9 and run through May 30, giving visitors about five months to experience the exhibit. The museum is open from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, with general admission available at the door and free entry for museum members.
In addition to the motorcycle exhibit, visitors can also explore the Packard Legacy displays, highlighting the Packard family and their impact on transportation and automotive history.