Wheels Through Time Transportation

Reviews 6

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Erin Arnold

Dale must not like children! He went out of his way to reprimand both my kids and my husband and I before we even stepped foot inside his museum. The family and I finally made our trip to North Carolina this past week and made sure to stop at the museum. My husband is an avid enthusiast of anything with a motor in it, so we thought this would make a great stop. My two sons and husband watch many car-related shows and try to go meet the people in person. After paying our entrance fee, we were standing in the gift shop area waiting to speak to Dale. In the meanwhile, my 2 year old was walking around with me (never more then 5 or 7 feet ahead) and my five year old was standing with my husband. After a couple minutes Dale was through with the previous guest. My husband started a conversation with Dale by thanking him for making the museum and hobby so accessible, and before even a "thank you," he threw his hands up and warned us about the kids. Then he asked me if we had already been inside, as if he was going to ask us to leave. My five year old was very disappointed in not being able to shake hands or take a picture with Dale as he watches the show and speaks about motorcycles often. It happened that while we were there, a film crew was there to shoot for the tv show. Once in the museum, we were in the back several minutes later and were standing in a group watching the filming by the shop area. Once again, I was holding the 2 year old in my arms and my five year old was holding my hand. Our family was quiet. Dale walked over to us and suggested we go upstairs in case the baby had a outburst, as to not ruin the filming. Had I known this would be our experience, I would not have gone to the museum. We understand the need to maintain order for the safety of the exhibits and silence for the quality of filming, but this was no way to treat a guest. He could have reminded us they were filming, but instead he asked us to go to the opposite side of the building. We frequent car shows, events and museums and have well-behaved children. Are they perfect? No. Do they deserve a premature warning, NO. The time was well spent but the experience was ruined by the cold and unwelcoming reception we received as guests from Dale. The front desk staff was friendly and also waived the admission price for the kids.

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Terry Link

I had the honor of visiting this very fine museums collections of American Motorcycling, in addition to other first rate memorabilia related to motoring since the late 1800s. My visit was on May 22nd just prior to Memorial Day. The museum staff was very knowledgeable, courteous, and engaged for the visitors. Dale Walksler, founder and curator, has unprecedented knowledge of motorcycles from their beginnings. He presents the museum in a very professional setting while allowing the visitors to peruse their "favorites" at their own leisure. I saw Dale even take extra time personally with motorcyclists who had traveled a long distance, just to see the artifacts within, and even start up a few of the gems. I introduced myself to Dale and opined that I had pinned Davenport, IA to his Map of Visitors to the Museum. Dale acquires motorcycle parts at the annual motorcycle swap meet at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds in Davenport. He was most cordial to ensure that I and my wife had enjoyed our visit. We very much enjoyed it after traveling from Ooltewah, TN to see and enjoy Dales beautiful surroundings, especially his "Wheels Through Time Museum" in Maggie Valley, NC. It is a must see if you get anywhere near Harrahs Cherokee Casino about 18 miles away on the other side of the mountain on Highway 19. It is part of the Great Smokey Mountains appeal and the scenery is spectacular. You wont be disappointed once you smell the metal history and prizes within.

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Theresa Stephens

I love this place and I dont even ride motorcycles. This museum is a top notch tribute to those who love these two-wheel beasts and how the machines evolved. The cycles are not trapped behind glass and these babies are right out there for you to touch (Carefully). Dont expect a sterile atmosphere because as soon as you pass through the doors your nostrils are assaulted with the odor of gas and oil. Despite the carefully staged chaos everything is clean and surprisingly artfully displayed. Some of the cycles look as if the owner had just parked them and will soon return. The silver-plated oil-catch pans made me smile. There are vintage cars, too for those who like four-wheeled transport. The owner of the museum is ready to meet and greet-when hes not starting up one of the vintage cycles for the visitors. Take your time when visiting this museum as there is so much to see. Go back and look again-there are many treasures waiting to be discovered for those who take time to admire these beauties.

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robin hoel

Breath-taking so much to see and Dale keeps adding new things. This was my 1st visit and my husbands 2nd. Both of us enjoyed every thing about this museum the decor, the staff and especially Dale. I want to thank Dale for taking the time to welcome us. During our conversation I told Dale how we stayed at the Jonathan Creek Inn for 2 extra days to just visit his Museum (museum closed Tues. &Wed.) Explained the restaurant "Joeys"(across from the Inn) was closed on Thursdays and that I had not eaten. So Dale recommended "Pops Eggs and Grits" Thank you, it was awesome and the folks delightful . We did get to see and talk to Pops and his wife. Best breakfast in town. I truly had a awesome day and thank you for sharing the museum to us and others to enjoy.

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Mike Maki

What a treasure for all motorcycle enthusiasts to have right here in the Smoky Mountains. Meeting Dale and Matt makes you get all excited about motorcycles...again. We are truly spoiled rotten to live in motorcycle heaven here in Western North Carolina and to have Wheels Through Time in our backyard is a major bonus. Dale has serial numbers 001, 002 and 003 on many of his treasures, not to mention a hand-full of "one-offs" in the entire world found only here in Maggie Valley. If your travels bring you within 100 miles of Maggie Valley DO NOT MISS the opportunity to experience over 100 years of motorcycle iron history in one building. Dale truly is a consummate showman that lives, breathes and exudes the excitement of the motorcycle lifestyle.

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Max Bertling

Got there with only 50 minutes to look around as it was closing at 5. My fault... Had the most amazing hour I can remember. Dale hollered up to the mezzanine "Where are the Ontario boys?" We hollered back and the next 45 minutes was packed of stories, facts, more stories and best of all him starting up a whole bunch of bikes and cars. Amazing. If you are thinking of visiting this beautiful museum in an amazing location put it on the top of the have to list. Am already planning next years return trip and am going to make sure I set aside a day to really check out everything this place has to offer. Thanks Dale and staff. Max OFD Crew

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