Nestled in the heart of Arvika, Sweden, the remarkable Vehicle Museum invites visitors to embark on a journey through the region’s captivating automotive past. With over a century of history proudly on display, the museum’s diverse collection captivates car enthusiasts and casual observers alike. From rare vintage gems to locally-manufactured icons, each exhibit tells a story that pays homage to Arvika’s proud legacy as a hub of innovation and craftsmanship. Step inside, and prepare to be transported to a time when the thrill of the open road was palpable in every turn of the wheel.
Good To Know
- The Arvika Vehicle Museum features over 100 vehicles, including rare and unusual models with local historical significance.
- The museum showcases diverse collections of motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles, and horse-drawn carriages, reflecting the region’s automotive history.
- The museum partners with prestigious institutions to display loaned exhibits, such as a 1915 Detroit Electric car.
- The museum highlights Arvika’s rich bicycle manufacturing history through the Arvika Velocipedfabrik, showcasing innovative designs.
- The museum pays tribute to Arvika’s motorsport legacy, displaying trophies and racing cars of local legends.
Museum Overview
The Arvika Vehicle Museum boasts an impressive collection of over 100 vehicles spanning various eras. Notable highlights include a 1931 Mercedes 370 S Cabriolet, a 1903 Humber, and a 1953 Volvo PV Valbo Cabriolet.
The museum focuses on showcasing unusual brands in their original condition, many with local historical significance. Visitors can expect an annually rotating selection of vehicles, offering a unique experience with each visit.
From cars and motorcycles to bicycles and horse-drawn carriages, the museum’s diverse collection provides a captivating glimpse into the rich automotive history of the region.
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Unique Vehicle Collections
Beyond the impressive lineup of automobiles, the Arvika Vehicle Museum boasts a diverse collection of other unique vehicles.
Visitors can admire a fascinating array of motorcycles, mopeds, and even horse-drawn carriages. A highlight is the museum’s collection of bicycles from the local Arvika Velocipedfabrik, showcasing the town’s rich bicycle manufacturing history.
The museum also features a captivating kick sled, a traditional Scandinavian mode of transportation, on loan from the Technical Museum in Stockholm.
These eclectic exhibits provide a comprehensive look at the evolution of transportation, offering a glimpse into Arvika’s vibrant past.
Motorcycle and Bicycle Exhibits
Motorcycles and mopeds captivate visitors at the Arvika Vehicle Museum, showcasing the evolution of two-wheeled transport.
The museum’s collection includes an array of historical two-wheelers, from vintage motorcycles to classic mopeds.
Highlights include:
- A rare 1950s Puch moped, a symbol of post-war mobility
- A sleek 1970s Husqvarna motorcycle, renowned for its off-road prowess
- Iconic Vespa scooters from the 1960s, representing Italy’s design legacy
- Arvika-made bicycles, showcasing the town’s rich manufacturing history
- A kicksled from the local Arvika Vagnfabrik, a nod to Nordic winter traditions.
These diverse exhibits offer a captivating journey through the two-wheeled transportation of the past.
Loaned Exhibits From Institutions
Alongside the museum’s robust collection of local vehicles, Arvika Vehicle Museum features several loaned exhibits from prestigious institutions.
Visitors can admire a 1915 Detroit Electric car on loan from the Technical Museum in Stockholm, a historic gem showcasing the early days of electric mobility.
Plus, the museum displays a Thulin car, another rare find acquired through a partnership with the Technical Museum.
These loaned pieces complement the museum’s focus on unusual brands, providing a well-rounded experience for automobile enthusiasts.
The rotating exhibits ensure each visit to Arvika Vehicle Museum offers something new to discover.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyArvika’s Bicycle Manufacturing History
The town of Arvika boasts a rich history in bicycle manufacturing, with the museum’s collection highlighting the significant contributions of the local Arvika Velocipedfabrik.
Five bicycles from this renowned factory are on display, offering visitors a glimpse into the town’s pioneering role in the industry.
These artifacts showcase:
- Innovative designs that push the boundaries of bicycle technology
- Craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined the brand’s reputation
- Iconic models that became symbols of Arvika’s industrial prowess
- Historical significance in the development of the region’s transportation
- The enduring legacy of the Arvika Velocipedfabrik in the community.
Local Motorsport Legends
Arvika Vehicle Museum pays tribute to the town’s motorsport legacy, with displays dedicated to local legends like Per Eklund.
Visitors can admire trophies and racing cars, including the iconic 1986 MG Metro 6R4 and Saab 9-3 Viggen, which these talented drivers piloted to victory.
These exhibits offer a glimpse into Arvika’s rich motorsport history, showcasing the skill and determination of its homegrown champions.
The museum celebrates the region’s enduring passion for speed and competition, honoring the individuals who’ve made Arvika a hub for automotive enthusiasts.
Enjoy this thrilling legacy and feel the excitement of Arvika’s motorsport heritage come alive at the Vehicle Museum.
Guided Tour Experience
Small group tours at the Arvika Vehicle Museum offer visitors a unique and immersive experience.
Led by knowledgeable Swedish guides, these intimate tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the museum’s impressive collection.
Visitors can expect:
- Personalized attention in groups limited to 10 participants
- Insights into the local history and significance of the vehicles
- Opportunities to get up close and learn about the intricate engineering
- Flexibility to ask questions and explore areas of personal interest
- A hassle-free experience with a generous 24-hour cancellation policy for full refunds
The guided tours allow visitors to fully appreciate the museum’s treasure trove of vintage automobiles, motorcycles, and other transportation artifacts, creating lasting memories of their Arvika adventure.
Museum Retail and Publications
Along With the impressive vehicle collection, the Arvika Vehicle Museum offers a well-stocked model car shop and exclusive publications for visitors to explore.
The model car shop features a variety of models at competitive prices, allowing enthusiasts to take a piece of the museum home. Plus, the museum sells exclusive publications, including a book that delves into the history of vehicles, roads, and motorsport in Värmland, priced at SEK 200.
These publications provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s rich automotive heritage. Whether browsing the model car selection or perusing the informative publications, the museum’s retail offerings enhance the overall visitor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The museum doesn’t currently offer discounted admission for seniors or students, but they do have a free cancellation policy allowing visitors to get a full refund up to 24 hours before their visit.
What Are the Museum’s Hours of Operation?
The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, closed on Mondays. Visitors can explore over 100 vintage vehicles and rotating exhibits during these hours, seeing the museum’s rich automotive history.
Is the Museum Wheelchair Accessible?
The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, lifts, and wide aisles that allow easy navigation throughout the exhibits. Visitors with mobility challenges can enjoy the extensive vehicle collection comfortably.
Can I Take Photos or Videos Inside the Museum?
Guests are generally permitted to take photos and videos inside the museum, though flash photography may be restricted to protect the vehicles. Visitors should check with staff for any specific guidelines upon arrival.
Is There a Cafe or Restaurant On-Site?
The museum doesn’t have a cafe or restaurant on-site, but there are several dining options nearby in the town of Arvika that visitors can explore after their museum visit.
The Sum Up
The Arvika Vehicle Museum offers a captivating journey through the region’s automotive legacy. Visitors can enjoy a diverse collection of rare vehicles, from vintage motorcycles to historic horse-drawn carriages. Guided tours and exclusive publications provide an insider’s perspective on Arvika’s rich motorsport heritage, while the museum’s retail offerings allow visitors to take home a piece of this remarkable automotive treasure trove.
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