National Trust for Historic Preservation Honors Milwaukee with Prestigious Award
03/07/2006
| Milwaukee's rich cultural heritage and commitment to historic preservation has earned it the designation as one of a Dozen Distinctive Destinations for 2006 in an announcement made today by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Milwaukee was selected from 93 destinations in 39 states nominated by individuals, preservation organizations and local communities. "Milwaukee offers so many exciting attractions for the eager visitor. From a world-renowned zoo to the many museums, mansions, breweries, gardens and parks, there is something for every age and interest to experience," said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation based in Washington D.C. "This outstanding city has a rich past that is celebrated by the community and its visitors alike." Since 2000, the National Trust has designated 84 communities in 41 states and territories as Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Award criteria include enjoyable historic, natural, aesthetic, recreational and cultural experiences, commitment to historic preservation, dynamic downtown, interesting architecture, cultural diversity, an economic base of locally-owned businesses and walking access for residents and visitors. "This prestigious designation recognizes Milwaukee for its commitment to a rich past and a progressive tradition," said Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett. "We are proud of such architectural icons as the Milwaukee City Hall, now undergoing an extensive renovation, and tributes to our brewing heritage painstakingly preserved in the Pabst Mansion and the Pabst Theater. The totality of Milwaukee's urban richness will continue to be recognized as we open new attractions such as Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin, opening this summer and the Harley-Davidson Museum coming in the summer of 2008." According to the National Trust, this annual award recognizes American cities and towns that have preserved their sense of place and character and which provide exciting choices as a visitor destination. "This honor embodies how Milwaukee has evolved into a significant visitor destination," said Doug Neilson, president and CEO of VISIT Milwaukee. "Very few destinations carefully preserve and blend its rich past with its progressive amenities and attractions as well as Milwaukee. From our desirable Lake Michigan location, non-stop festivals season and revitalization of our historic neighborhoods, such as the Bronzeville district and the nation's only memorial to the history of African American slavery, America's Black Holocaust Museum, Milwaukee offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates our proud traditions and cultural diversity." Other 2006 Dozen Distinctive Destinations are: Arrow Rock, Missouri, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Bowling Green, Kentucky, Lewes, Delaware, Monterey, California, Palm Springs, California, Philipsburg, Montana, Prescott, Arizona, Saranac Lake, New York, Waimea, Kaua'i, Hawaii and West Chester, Pennsylvania. VISIT Milwaukee markets Greater Milwaukee to tourists, convention and meeting planners nationally and internationally and is dedicated to ensuring our guests are warmly welcomed and enjoy an enriching experience in this jewel of the Great Lakes. VISIT Milwaukee has more than 700 members, including hotels/motels, restaurants, attractions, services and area businesses. Tourism generated $2.4 billion in spending in Greater Milwaukee in 2004 and supported about 61,000 local jobs. The Spirit of Milwaukee and Potawatomi Bingo Casino are strategic partners with VISIT Milwaukee, providing funding support for conventions and tourism programs. For more information call 1-800-554-1448 or visit http://www.visitmilwaukee.org. ### FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: David Fantle, Director of Public Relations, VISIT Milwaukee 414/287-4253 |
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Harley Davidson Unveils Design for Museum
03/01/2006
Harley-Davidson has unveiled its designs for the Harley-Davidson Museum. Ground will be broken for this 20-acre facility, located on the corner of Sixth and Canal Streets near downtown Milwaukee, this summer. With an anticipated opening date of 2008, the 130,000 square foot Museum development will feature exhibit space as well as a restaurant, café, retail shop, meeting space, special event facilities and the Harley-Davidson corporate archives.
The building and landscaped grounds will provide a perfect off-site venue, offering a variety of room types and space to accommodate groups large and small. Exact sizes and group accommodation details will be available later this year.
"This will give Milwaukee a one-of-a-kind attraction that you won't find anywhere else in the world," said Doug Neilson, president and CEO of VISIT Milwaukee. "Once this project is completed it is expected to bring an estimated 350,000 visitors to the city each year from around the globe. Harley-Davidson has been a prominent part of this community for over a century and their Museum will become a renowned part of the world-class attractions Milwaukee has to offer its visitors."
The Museum will celebrate the rich history of Harley-Davidson, the passion of the riders, the stories of the employees, dealers, suppliers, company leaders and community members. The experience will extend to outdoor space where visitors can meet to share stories and enjoy the green space adjacent to the edge of the Menomonee River. The Museum design reflects the industrial heritage of both Harley-Davidson and Milwaukee, the city of its birth. For graphics on the new Museum and more information check out http://www.h-dmusuem.com.
VISIT Milwaukee markets Greater Milwaukee to tourists, convention and meeting planners nationally and internationally and is dedicated to ensuring our guests are warmly welcomed and enjoy an enriching experience in this jewel of the Great Lakes. VISIT Milwaukee has more than 700 members, including hotels/motels, restaurants, attractions, services and area businesses. Tourism generated $2.4 billion in spending in Greater Milwaukee in 2004 and supported about 61,000 local jobs. The Spirit of Milwaukee and Potawatomi Bingo Casino are strategic partners with VISIT Milwaukee, providing funding support for conventions and tourism programs. For more information call 1-800-554-1448 or visit http://www.visitmilwaukee.org.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
David Fantle, Director of Public Relations, VISIT Milwaukee
414/287-4253