Welcome to the Petersen Automotive Museum, where car enthusiasts can indulge in their passion for all things automotive. Located in Los Angeles, California, the museum boasts a collection of over 300 vehicles, each with their own unique story and place in history. From vintage classics to modern supercars, visitors can explore the fascinating world of cars and get an up-close look at some of the most iconic vehicles of all time. Whether you’re a lifelong car fan or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a must-visit destination.
The Petersen Auto Museum
The Petersen Auto Museum is located in Los Angeles, California, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. It showcases a collection of over 300 vehicles, representing different eras and countries. The museum is a nonprofit organization and has been in operation for over 25 years.
History of the Petersen Auto Museum
The Petersen Auto Museum was founded in 1994 by Robert E. Petersen. Petersen was a media magnate and a car enthusiast, and his love for cars inspired him to create a museum that would not only showcase his own personal collection but also educate the public about the history and importance of automobiles.
Initially, the museum was located in a basement of one of Petersen’s other properties. However, as the collection grew, it became clear that a larger space was needed. In 1999, the museum moved to its current location, a 300,000 square foot building on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles.
Since its inception, the museum has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades, including a $125 million renovation in 2015 that included a new façade and a complete overhaul of the interior. Today, the Petersen Auto Museum is not only a place where visitors can view amazing cars, but it is also a hub for car enthusiasts and scholars who come to learn and conduct research.
The Petersen Auto Museum Collection
The Petersen Auto Museum boasts one of the most extensive collections of classic and vintage cars and motorcycles in the world. The collection spans a wide range of eras and countries, from the early days of motoring to the latest in automotive technology.
One of the highlights of the collection is the Hollywood Gallery, which houses cars that have been featured in movies and TV shows, including the Batmobile from the 1966 Batman TV series, the DeLorean time machine from Back to the Future, and the Ghostbusters car. The museum also has a section dedicated to race cars, showcasing the world’s top-performing vehicles, as well as a display of hot rods and custom cars.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum to learn about the different vehicles on display, or they can explore the collection on their own. In addition, the museum frequently hosts car shows, rallies, and other events, providing car enthusiasts with unique opportunities to see rare and exotic vehicles up close.
The Petersen Auto Museum Exhibitions
One of the unique features of the Petersen Auto Museum is its themed exhibits. These exhibitions focus on specific aspects of automobilia, such as car design, racing, and cultural impact.
For example, the museum’s “Precious Metal” exhibit showcases some of the most beautiful and rarest cars from around the world, including a 1964 Ferrari 250 LM and a 1939 Bugatti Type 57C. The “Hollywood Dream Machines” exhibit features famous movie cars from the Batman series, The Fast and the Furious franchise, and the James Bond movies, among others.
The museum also has a rotating exhibition program, which means that visitors can see something new each time they visit. Past exhibitions have included “Rat Rods,” “Italian Design,” and “Alternative Power.” These exhibitions combine the historical significance of car culture with the forward thinking and technological advances of the industry today.
In conclusion, the Petersen Auto Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of automobiles. The collection is vast and impressive, and the themed exhibits provide unique and exciting insights into the automotive world. Whether you are a car enthusiast or simply want to learn more about how cars have shaped our society, the Petersen Auto Museum is the perfect destination.
Discovering the Petersen Auto Museum
The Petersen Auto Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and historians. Located in Los Angeles, California, this museum features some of the most special, unique, and iconic cars from around the world. With exhibits and events that showcase different eras, models, and collections, visitors can expect to be transported through time and history. Here are some tips and information to make the most of your visit to the Petersen Auto Museum.
Ticket Information
Before visiting the Petersen Auto Museum, make sure to check their website for updated ticket prices and discounts. As of 2021, general admission is $16 for adults, $13 for seniors, students, and military, and $8 for children aged 3-12. Memberships are also available for those who want to visit the museum multiple times a year.
The Petersen Auto Museum also offers special events and exhibits throughout the year. These may require an additional fee or have a different admission rate. For example, the Vault Tour takes visitors on a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s extensive car collection, and prices start at $40 per person.
Getting to the Petersen Auto Museum
The Petersen Auto Museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California. Visitors can arrive at the museum using public transportation or by driving. Parking options are available in the museum’s parking garage, with rates starting at $16 for up to 2 hours.
For those taking public transportation, the Metro Rapid 720 and Metro Local 20 buses stop near the museum. The closest Metro station is Wilshire/Normandie on the Purple Line.
Tips for Visiting the Petersen Auto Museum
To make the most of your trip to the Petersen Auto Museum, plan ahead and budget enough time to explore all the exhibits. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
– Arrive early to avoid crowds and have more time to see all the exhibits.
– Wear comfortable shoes, as the museum is quite large and has multiple floors.
– Bring a camera to capture photos of the stunning cars and exhibits.
– Check the museum’s website for updated hours and special events before your visit.
– Take the Vault Tour for a unique and immersive experience.
– Don’t be afraid to ask questions or interact with the staff, who are always happy to help.
Overall, the Petersen Auto Museum is a fascinating and engaging destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational outing, this museum is definitely worth a visit. With these tips and information, you can plan the perfect trip to explore the world of cars and history at the Petersen Auto Museum.