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Petersen Automotive Museum: A Temple of Chrome and Culture

Explore over a century of automotive history, design, and culture at the Petersen Automotive Museum, home to iconic vehicles and interactive exhibits in the heart of Los Angeles.

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The Petersen Automotive Museum, located on Museum Row in Los Angeles' Miracle Mile, is a celebration of automotive history, industry, and design. Housed in a striking building with a distinctive stainless-steel ribbon facade, the Petersen boasts a vast collection of vehicles, from early horseless carriages to futuristic concept cars. Inside, visitors can explore interactive exhibits, delve into the artistry of automotive design, and discover the cultural impact of the automobile. Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast or simply appreciate innovative design, the Petersen offers a fascinating and engaging experience for all ages. With rotating exhibits and a commitment to showcasing the latest advancements in automotive technology, the Petersen remains a dynamic and relevant destination for anyone interested in the world of cars.

A brief summary to Petersen Automotive Museum

  • 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.
  • Consider booking a guided tour of The Vault for an exclusive look at some of the museum's rarest and most valuable vehicles.
  • Check the museum's website for upcoming events, lectures, and workshops to enhance your visit.
  • Take advantage of the interactive exhibits, such as the Forza Motorsports Experience and the Cars Mechanical Institute, for a fun and engaging learning experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the museum's extensive collection.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For those arriving via public transportation, the Petersen Automotive Museum is easily accessible by bus. Several Metro bus lines stop near the museum, including the 20, 217, 28, 720 and DASH. The closest bus stop is Fairfax / Wilshire, a short walk from the museum's entrance. A single ride on Metro costs $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient option for reaching the Petersen Automotive Museum. From a central location in Los Angeles, such as downtown, a taxi or ride-share to the museum will typically cost between $35 and $45, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Driving

    If driving, the Petersen Automotive Museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036. The museum has an attached parking garage accessible from Fairfax Avenue. The first 15 minutes are free, then the first 2 hours cost $18, with each additional hour costing $3, up to a daily maximum of $24. Alternative parking options are available in nearby garages, though prices may vary.

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Discover more about Petersen Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum, a beacon of chrome and innovation on Los Angeles' Museum Row, stands as a testament to the automobile's profound impact on society and culture. Founded in 1994 by Robert E. Petersen and his wife Margie, the museum has evolved from its humble beginnings within the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County to become an independent institution housed in a landmark building designed by Welton Becket. Originally a Seibu Department Store in 1962 and later an Ohrbach's, the building was transformed in 2015 with a dramatic redesign by Kohn Pedersen Fox, featuring a swirling stainless-steel ribbon facade that evokes the movement of air over a car's body. Inside, the Petersen's exhibits span over 100,000 square feet, showcasing more than 300 vehicles from around the world. The museum's collection includes classic cars, race cars, motorcycles, and Hollywood movie cars, each telling a unique story about automotive history and design. Visitors can explore the early days of the automobile with exhibits featuring horseless carriages and vintage vehicles, or delve into the world of high-performance racing with displays of legendary race cars and memorabilia. The Petersen also celebrates the artistry of automotive design, with exhibits showcasing the work of influential car designers and coachbuilders. One of the museum's most popular attractions is The Vault, a subterranean collection of over 250 rare and iconic vehicles. Guided tours of The Vault provide visitors with an up-close look at some of the world's most valuable and historically significant automobiles, including classic cars, supercars, and famous movie cars. The Petersen's Hollywood Gallery showcases vehicles from popular films and television shows, highlighting the cultural impact of automobiles in entertainment. Visitors can see vehicles from films like "Back to the Future," "Batman," and "The Fast and the Furious." In addition to its extensive collection of vehicles, the Petersen offers a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The Forza Motorsports Experience allows guests to virtually race high-performance cars on a simulated track, while the Cars Mechanical Institute, inspired by the animated film "Cars," teaches the inner workings of vehicles through hands-on displays. The museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and special events throughout the year, providing opportunities for visitors to learn more about automotive history, design, and technology. The Petersen's commitment to showcasing the latest advancements in automotive technology is evident in its exhibits on alternative power and industry innovations. These exhibits explore the future of transportation, with displays of electric, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles, as well as discussions of emerging technologies like autonomous driving and connected cars. The Petersen also examines the impact of the automobile on society and culture, with exhibits exploring topics like car culture, customization, and the role of the automobile in shaping urban landscapes. The Petersen Automotive Museum is more than just a collection of cars; it's a dynamic and engaging institution that celebrates the automobile's rich history, artistry, and cultural significance. Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast or simply curious about the world of automobiles, the Petersen offers a fascinating and unforgettable experience.

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