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Museums

RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museums

4.6 · 2,143 reviews
Nostalgic, academic, and expansive.
RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museums, 21565 Executive Pkwy, Elkhart, IN 46514, United States
Interesting facts
1

The collection includes the 1931 Mae West Housecar, a custom-built unit featuring a sun deck and primitive sleeping quarters.

2

Elkhart is known as the 'RV Capital of the World,' with a significant percentage of all RVs produced in this region.

3

The facility houses the RV/MH Hall of Fame, which inducts leaders and innovators who shaped the industry.

4

Some vintage models on display include early 'canned ham' style trailers from the 1940s and 1950s.

5

The museum archive contains thousands of documents related to industry manufacturing standards and historical marketing materials.

6

The onsite event center hosts regional and national gatherings for RV owner clubs and industry trade associations.

Overview

The RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museums honors the history of the recreational vehicle and manufactured housing industries in Elkhart, Indiana. The facility features a large collection of vintage RVs, including models dating back to the early 20th century. Exhibits chronicle the evolution of travel trailers, motorhomes, and park models. The site serves as a functioning event venue with large meeting spaces. Archives preserve industry records, design schematics, and personal histories of industry pioneers. Visitors can walk through select restored vintage units to view original interiors. The museum grounds also house an extensive library and collection of industry artifacts.

Photo spot

The 1931 Mae West Housecar, which serves as a centerpiece of the museum's vintage collection.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, easy-on, easy-off shoes if you plan to enter the vintage RVs, as many require you to climb stairs.

Check the events calendar on their website before arriving to ensure the exhibit floor is not blocked for a private event.

Allocate extra time to read the detailed historical placards located outside each featured vehicle.

What to avoid

Do not skip the back rows of the exhibit hall, as the most rare vintage prototypes are often displayed in the rear sections.

Good to know

Closed on major holidays; facility occasionally closes sections for private events.

Etiquette

Respect the 'no touching' signs on interior displays; remove outdoor footwear before entering antique units if requested by signage.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings, as the venue is less crowded and easier to navigate through the tighter aisles of vintage vehicles.
Address
RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museums, 21565 Executive Pkwy, Elkhart, IN 46514, United States
41.730, -85.880
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits1931 Mae West Housecar and extensive vintage 'canned ham' trailer collection
ArchivesIndustry design schematics and historic manufacturing records

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings, as the venue is less crowded and easier to navigate through the tighter aisles of vintage vehicles..

The 1931 Mae West Housecar, which serves as a centerpiece of the museum's vintage collection.

Close by you'll find Wellfield Botanic Gardens, Bristol Opera House, Island Park.