The Marin Museum of Bicycling in Fairfax, California, is a comprehensive museum dedicated to the history of bicycling, with a particular focus on the evolution of the mountain bike. It showcases bicycles from the 19th century to the present day, emphasizing mountain biking’s origins and development. Established in 2013 by a group of volunteers, the museum also houses the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. It is a volunteer-run, nonprofit organization that offers individual and group tours, and its membership includes free admission among other benefits.
A unique and engaging collection of bicycles, covering a history of nearly two centuries, is available for visitors to enjoy, aiming to provide an in-depth and engaging experience. The exhibit is enriched with detailed descriptions and photos, offering extensive insights. Guided tours by experienced and knowledgeable guides, including some who have been inducted into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, are frequently offered. It is advisable to contact in advance to confirm the availability of guides and the schedule of tours. Typically, a tour lasts around an hour, but it may extend longer for visitors with particular interests they’d like to delve into. The museum ensures that all visitors, whether cycling enthusiasts or not, will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the bicycle’s remarkable history and its significant impact.
The museum also features an extensive library filled with cycling-related literature, magazines, photographs, and other items for guests to explore. A comfortable seating area for reading, along with a screening room showing cycling-related videos and specialty content throughout the day, further enhances the visitor experience. For entertainment, vintage mountain bike video games are playable. There’s also an outdoor covered area where visitors can eat. The museum’s gift shop offers a selection of T-shirts, books, postcards, and other items, making for perfect mementos or gifts.
Bike Museum History
Situated in Fairfax, California, The Marin Museum of Bicycling emerges as a leading entity focused on preserving and showcasing bicycle history, doubling as an essential cultural venue. This institution thrives as a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit, powered by the dedication of its volunteer workforce. The museum’s exhibitions trace the bicycle’s evolution starting from the 19th century, highlighted by the distinguished Igler and Kaminski Collections. These displays provide a deep dive into the bicycle’s transformative journey from the 1860s, through its “Golden Age” in the 1890s, and progressing into the early decades of the 20th century. Furthermore, the venue is proud to be the residence of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, initially founded in Crested Butte, Colorado, in 1988, now boasting an expanded exhibit that chronicles significant developments in mountain biking.
- The assortment of exhibits extends to a comprehensive range of road, track, touring, and utility bicycles, along with a variety of accessories from 1915 to the 1980s, prominently featuring pieces from the Matteo Collection;
- The library, accessible to all visitors, houses the broad Owen Mulholland Collection, which includes a wealth of books, magazines, and ephemera, gathered throughout Mulholland’s esteemed career as a cycling journalist;
- The museum’s archives are a treasure trove of original documents and artifacts, spanning from the 1880s to contemporary times.
The museum owes its inception to a dedicated team of bicycle enthusiasts and professionals—Joe Breeze, Otis Guy, Marc Vendetti, Julia Violich, Keith Hastings, and Lena Maria Estrella—whose collective expertise in various fields like bicycling, design, construction, operational management, non-profit leadership, legal affairs, and commercial strategy laid the foundation for this unique institution. Occupying a space of 4,700 square feet in the heart of downtown Fairfax, the museum opened its doors on June 6, 2015. It serves as a vibrant venue for a host of bicycle-related events, including educational talks, film showings, and live broadcasts of cycling competitions. The venue comprises a compact screening room for up to 14 viewers and a larger hall with a capacity for 130 guests, suited for a wide range of activities such as presentations, movie nights, private functions, and meetings. Guests are invited to peruse the EVENTS page and sign up for updates to keep abreast of all the exciting happenings.
Plan a Visit
The Marin Museum of Bicycling welcomes visitors interested in the history and culture of bicycling. Below are key details for planning a visit:
Operating Hours:
- Open Thursday through Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm;
- Closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
Holiday & Special Closures:
- Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day;
- Closes early at 2 pm on New Year’s Eve.
Admission Fees:
| Category | Admission Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | $10 |
| Seniors (65+), Military, and Disabled | $8 |
| Youths (12-17) & Students | $5 |
| Children (6-11) | $3 |
| Children 5 & under, Museum Members, and Mountain Bike Hall of Fame Inductees | Free |
Contact Information
- Phone: 415-450-8000. A phone menu is available for directing calls to the appropriate department or individual;
- Email: Visitors are encouraged to use the Contact Us page on the museum’s official website for email inquiries;
- Private & Group Tours: Available by appointment. Contact the museum for scheduling and details;
- Website: https://mmbhof.org/.