Petersen Automotive Museum: A Temple of Chrome and Culture
Experience automotive history, artistry, and innovation at the Petersen Automotive Museum, home to over 300 iconic vehicles in the heart of Los Angeles' Museum Row.
The Petersen Automotive Museum, located on Museum Row in Los Angeles' Miracle Mile, is a dazzling tribute to the automobile. Housed in a striking building wrapped in stainless steel ribbons, the museum boasts an impressive collection of over 300 vehicles spanning automotive history, from early horseless carriages to futuristic concept cars. Visitors can explore themed exhibits showcasing racing cars, Hollywood movie vehicles, motorcycles, and alternative-fuel technologies. Interactive displays, family-friendly activities, and the exclusive Vault tour make the Petersen a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With its ever-changing exhibits and dedication to automotive culture, the Petersen offers a unique and engaging experience that celebrates the automobile's impact on society.
A brief summary to Petersen Automotive Museum
- 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, Carthay Circle, California, 90036, US
- +1323-930-2277
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience exploring the exhibits.
- Don't miss The Vault tour for an exclusive look at rare and iconic vehicles not on regular display (additional fee required).
- Check the museum's website for special events, lectures, and temporary exhibits to enhance your visit.
- Take advantage of the interactive displays and family-friendly activities, such as the Forza Motorsports Experience, for an engaging experience.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions on Museum Row, such as LACMA and the La Brea Tar Pits, to make the most of your day.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Petersen Automotive Museum is easily accessible via public transportation. Several bus lines stop near the museum, including the Metro Local lines 20, 217, 720 and 786. The closest bus stops are Fairfax / Wilshire (a 1-minute walk) and Wilshire / Fairfax (a 3-minute walk). A single ride on Metro Local lines costs $1.75. From Los Angeles Union Station, take the Metro B or D Line to Wilshire/Western Station, then transfer to the Metro 720 bus westbound to reach the museum. The combined cost is $4.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach the Petersen Automotive Museum. A ride from the Los Angeles Union Station to the museum typically costs between $40 and $50 and takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. A shorter ride from the nearby La Brea Tar Pits would cost approximately $10-$15.
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Driving
If driving, the Petersen Automotive Museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036. Parking is available in the museum's garage for a fee. The first 2 hours cost $18, and each additional hour is $3, with a daily maximum of $24. Cheaper parking options can be found in nearby garages, such as at 785 Courtyard Place (5750 Wilshire Blvd), about a 12-minute walk away, for around $13. Valet parking is not available.
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Walking
For those staying in the Miracle Mile area, walking to the Petersen Automotive Museum is a viable option. From LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art), it's approximately a 15-minute walk east along Wilshire Boulevard. From the La Brea Tar Pits, it's about a 10-minute walk east. Be aware that Los Angeles can get hot, so bring water.
Discover more about Petersen Automotive Museum
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