The Harley-Davidson Vehicle and Powertrain Operations plant in Kansas City, Mo., offers free tours most weekdays. Children under 12 are welcome in the tour center but are not allowed on the factory tour, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The hour-long tour starts with an introductory video of how motorcycles are made. On the factory floor, you can see employees do welding, laser-cutting, frame-bending, polishing and assembly. You can also watch them make fenders and fuel tanks and see robotic welding.
Visitors must wear low-heeled, fully enclosed shoes. No photography or backpacks are allowed.
Behind-the-scenes Steel Toe Tours are available for $35.
The free tours are available between 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays, though production is not always in operation on Fridays. You need a ticket, so it’s smart to arrive early to make sure you’ll get in. Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more (call 877-883-1450 for reservations).
