Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum — Attraction in Birmingham

Beautiful cars and bikes, rude and judgemental staff.

First off, I'd like to say that a place like this should help spark an interest in motorsports for people, so why keep staff that ruin that experience? Being a younger enthusiast (17), I understand the staff keeping an eye out, but they were incredibly harsh to me and my friends, accusing us multiple times of things that we didn't do. First time we had issues was when we were in one of the upper floors, me and my friends were standing in an area with a tv display, one of my friends pointed into the room next to the tv which I guess they assumed was my friend using the remote (which none of us even realized was behind the tv), because 30 or so seconds later a staff member tells us he got us on camera tampering with the tv. Despite us showing him that the tv was still on, displaying what it's supposed to be, and none of us even knowing where the remote was until he pointed it out, we got tracked down later and they showed us the camera footage, which was incredibly grainy and hard to make out any detail, and when we asked if we could see any other camera angles to atleast see if my friend did or not they flat out refused. After that, we just decided to head out because it was late and we already saw everything, but before that we hopped by the gift shop so that I could grab a diecast model, and while I was going to ring it up, another staff member accused another of my friends of "slipping something into his pocket" out loud. After he emptied both of his pockets completely and had them fully inside out, he still offered to let your staff search him, and when asked why he even accused him of that, he said "we already caught you guys in a lie once."

A couple of final notes:

• If you guys claim to have every square inch of this place under surveillance, why not show us another angle? I get that you guys don't have to, but it would only hurt us if it did prove that my friend caused any problems.

•If you guys are so worried about losing your jobs for someone tampering with a tv like you told us, then why aren't you worried when you treat people who paid to see this museum like garbage? I feel like that gives you more grounds to be fired on.

•Why leave the remotes for the tvs out in easy reach of everyone in this museum if you guys are so insanely worried about tampering? I feel like that's just stupid, I get it's common sense not to mess with stuff, but it removes so many opportunities to have issues by just putting the remotes in an area that only staff can access. I'm sure it can't make your guy's jobs any harder since you guys went out of your way to follow some teenagers around a museum for a couple of hours. If you paid attention, you'd see that we were being very respectful around the cars and bikes in the museum.

I really wish I could say I loved coming here, and that I'd like to come back, but I sadly can't say that, with how you guys treated us, it'd leave a bitter taste in my mouth paying for this again just to experience it again without the issues with staff. I'm not saying this to tell you guys that "you lost a customer" like many others do with businesses, despite it feeling like a complete waste of time, and my two friend's (who you both accused of causing problems) money, which they could've gotten so much more enjoyment out of than this. I just wish other people could have a better experience...

It's safe to assume every state in the U.S. has a hidden gem or two that stands out from everything else each has to offer; for Alabama, this is that place. To simply have the largest motorcycle collection in the world is one accomplishment on its own. However, this is a "living" museum, meaning, with a few exceptions made for sentimentality or simple impossibility, every vehicle in the collection will run, given the fluids are put back in. The vehicles are a mix of fully-restored examples and untouched originals; the museum decides whether or not to restore vehicles based on several factors. It's also not just any old building, either; the several tens of thousands of square feet are walled in with five-story glass, and the whole exhibition resembles a life-sized Hot-Wheels-esque toy chest - You'll see individual "slots" for countless models lining the walls and towering alongside the central elevator, a winding ramp in the center, and 1:1 "model kits" of a few cars. It is hard to describe just how significant the variety of vehicles, memorabilia, and other details is here. Not to mention the highly-kept grounds and the 2.38mi road course pressed right up against the west side. On many days of the year, you're likely to see cars or bikes on track, such as Porsche and Mercedes experience clients. George Barber and his team have created something truly magical.

Get here early on a weekend and buy the tour to accompany your admission ($30 total per person, half for admission only). You'll be in for about 2-3 hours of learning the importance of each vehicle that gets discussed, showcasing the significance of the entire operation. If you want to ask about any bike in particular, there's a good chance your guide can find it or at least have something interesting to tell about it. You'll also get to visit the restoration level on the bottom floor, which isn't otherwise open to museum guests on regular days of operation. If you're from far away and unlikely to visit again, I would find it criminal not to spend the extra cash and time. When you're ready for lunch, Rusty's BBQ is the go-to spot for a quick bite in Leeds, or you can take the drive into Birmingham proper and enjoy all the variety on offer there. The museum is also open during the special events held at the property, such as the annual Barber Vintage Festival, Indycar race weekend, and several other race and event weekends - you will need to buy admission for the event as well as the museum.

Also, keep an eye out for little easter eggs that have been scattered across the property, both...

Nestled within the scenic grounds of Alabama lies a true haven for motorcycle enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike: the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape, with lush greenery and captivating art installations scattered throughout the grounds. It's a setting that perfectly sets the stage for the awe-inspiring experience that awaits inside.

As you step through the museum's doors, you're immediately transported into a world of two-wheeled wonders and automotive marvels. The massive collection of rare and exotic motorcycles from around the globe is nothing short of spectacular. From vintage classics to cutting-edge superbikes, every corner of the museum is filled with treasures that tell the rich and storied history of motorcycling.

But the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is more than just a showcase for motorcycles—it's a celebration of all things automotive. Alongside the extensive motorcycle collection, visitors will also find a remarkable array of Lotus cars and other rare automobiles that span decades of automotive history. It's a testament to the passion and dedication of the museum's founders, whose vision has created a truly world-class destination for enthusiasts of all stripes.

One of the most impressive aspects of the museum is its commitment to preserving and showcasing these incredible machines in pristine condition. Each motorcycle and automobile is lovingly restored and meticulously maintained, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at their beauty and innovation for years to come.

In addition to its impressive collection, the museum also boasts a variety of race tracks and facilities that cater to motorsports enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned racer or just looking to test your skills on the track, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Overall, a visit to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is an unforgettable experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression. With its stunning setting, unparalleled collection, and dedication to preserving automotive history, it's a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for motorcycles, cars, or...