When you think of Milwaukee, beer and bikes typically come to mind. For years, 110 to be exact, the Miller Brewing Co. and Harley-Davidson Motor Company have shared headquarters on the same street and coincidentally, an anniversary date, too. 2013 marks not only the 110th anniversary for H-D, but also the 110th for our very own Miller High Life, the Champagne of Beers.
Milwaukee is once again preparing for the roar of cycles as excitement builds for Labor Day weekend. Bikers will flood into town from literally everywhere. Bikes come from across town, across the country, and some are even shipped from overseas for this epic journey to “home,” where it all began.
I had the pleasure of participating in the 105th Miller Valley anniversary festivities. What I remember most is how kind and grateful these folks were who toured the Valley back in ’08. I remember how much they loved the Girl in the Moon and wanted to get their hands on as much of her memorabilia as possible. I remember their loyalty to not only their bike brand, but also their beer brands. And my most vivid memory is of their willingness to meet new people, bond with others and enjoy their passion for bikes in an environment customized for them.
Built in the 1800s, our historic stables were home to beer wagons and horse teams. (The horse stalls were actually on the second floor and accessed via ramps. The wagons were kept on the main level.) Now those stables are home to a vintage Miller High Life Bar, old brewing equipment, a fantastic antique bottle opener collection and murals of pre-prohibition Miller Valley scenery. In August, bikers will have the opportunity to drive their bikes right inside this space for a custom photo. Afterwards they can shop at one of our retail spots inside and enjoy an ice-cold brew or two with old friends or new.
No trip to Milwaukee is complete without the Miller Brewery Tour. We are expecting over 5,000 visitors the week leading up to Labor Day, and we will be ready and waiting with cool giveaways, great discounts, live bands in the beer garden and even a chance for one lucky tour guest to win a Harley-Davidson motorcycle (must be 21 or older—some exclusions apply, see http://www.millercoors.com/MillerCoors/media/MillerCoors/documents/Cycle-Giveaway.pdf for details).
Even if you don’t own a bike, this event is something to experience first-hand. Come to Milwaukee, enjoy the ride and make some Miller Time with us in Miller Valley as we celebrate the roads we’ve traveled over the past 110 years.
