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Petersen Automotive Museum: A Celebration of Car Culture

Explore automotive history, artistry, and culture at the Petersen Automotive Museum on Los Angeles' Museum Row.

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The Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is one of the world's largest automotive museums, showcasing over 250 vehicles from vintage classics to modern supercars. Located on Museum Row in the Miracle Mile, the museum explores the history, industry, and artistry of the automobile in an engaging and visually stunning way.

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

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines, especially during peak season.
  • Visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
  • Don't miss the Vault tour for a behind-the-scenes look at rare and unique vehicles.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events and temporary exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Union Station, take the B or D Line subway to Wilshire/Vermont Station. Transfer to the 720 bus and ride to the Wilshire/Crescent Heights stop. The museum is a short walk from there. A single fare for the bus and subway is $2.

  • Driving

    The Petersen Automotive Museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Blvd. From central Los Angeles, take Wilshire Boulevard west. Parking is available in the museum's attached garage, accessible from Fairfax Avenue. The first 30 minutes are free, then it's $2 for every 30 minutes, with a daily maximum of $24.

  • Ride Share

    Request a ride to 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles. From central Los Angeles, a ride-share will cost approximately $35-$45, depending on traffic. Drop-off is easily accessible on Wilshire Boulevard.

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Discover more about Petersen Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum, located on Wilshire Boulevard's Museum Row in Los Angeles, is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and anyone interested in automotive history and design. Founded in 1994 by Robert E. Petersen and his wife Margie, the museum has grown into one of the world's largest automotive museums, boasting a collection of over 250 vehicles. The museum is housed in a historic department store building that was originally a branch of Seibu Department Stores in 1962 and later an Ohrbach's department store. In 2015, the building underwent a $125 million renovation, transforming its facade into a striking display of stainless-steel ribbons that evoke the movement and speed of automobiles. Inside, the Petersen offers a comprehensive journey through automotive history, with exhibits showcasing everything from early prototypes to Hollywood movie cars. The ground floor features a virtual history of the automobile in Los Angeles, complete with vintage vehicles and buildings. The second floor houses both permanent and special exhibits, while the third floor features the May Family Children's Discovery Center, an interactive space for kids to learn about car mechanics and design. One of the museum's most popular attractions is the Vault, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at over 250 additional vehicles not on display in the main galleries. This guided tour provides access to classic cars, celebrity-owned vehicles, and rare prototypes. The Petersen also hosts special events and programs throughout the year, including car shows, workshops, and family-friendly activities.

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