Welcome to the Peterson Auto Museum, where you can take a journey through the history of the automobile industry. This museum is full of vintage and modern cars, ranging from rare classics to speed machines – all of which have played an important role in shaping the car industry. Whether you are an automotive enthusiast or just looking for a fun and informative experience, the Peterson Auto Museum has something for everyone.
The Peterson Auto Museum: A Journey Through Automotive History
The Peterson Auto Museum is a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Founded by Robert E. Petersen and his wife Margie in 1994, the museum is now one of the largest automotive museums in the world, with over 300 cars and motorcycles in its collection. The museum has become a beloved destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the evolution of the automobile.
A Brief History of the Peterson Auto Museum
The Peterson Auto Museum was founded in 1994 by Robert E. Petersen and his wife Margie. Petersen was the founder of the publishing company Petersen Publishing and was instrumental in promoting the hot-rod culture of the 1950s and 1960s. He passed away in 2007, but his legacy lives on through the museum that he and his wife founded. The museum is located in the Miracle Mile neighborhood of Los Angeles, near other famous attractions such as the La Brea Tar Pits and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
The Museum’s Collection
The Peterson Auto Museum’s collection is a diverse mix of classic and exotic cars, motorcycles, and rare vehicles from famous movies and television shows. Visitors can marvel at iconic vehicles such as Fred Astaire’s Rolls Royce, Steve McQueen’s Jaguar XKSS, and the DeLorean from Back to the Future. Other notable cars include the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, the Ferrari 308 GTB from Magnum, P.I., and the 1987 Buick GNX from The Fast and the Furious.
But the collection is not just limited to cars and motorcycles. The Peterson Auto Museum also features an exhibit on the role of the automobile in American culture, with displays that include everything from an early 20th century gas pump to a replica of a 1950s drive-in diner. The museum is also home to a stunning array of art cars, customized vehicles that blur the line between art and transportation.
The Peterson Auto Museum Experience
Visitors to the Peterson Auto Museum can expect an immersive experience as they explore the history and evolution of the automobile. The museum features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the vehicles and learn about their inner workings. There are also digital displays that show the impact of the automobile on society and culture.
The Peterson Auto Museum is more than just a static collection of cars and motorcycles. The museum offers regular events, including car shows and celebrity guest appearances. Visitors can also take part in guided tours that provide an in-depth look at the museum’s collection and history. The museum is open seven days a week and offers free parking to visitors.
Overall, the Peterson Auto Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in the history and culture of the automobile. From classic cars to movie vehicles, the museum’s collection is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of automotive designers and enthusiasts throughout the years.
Exploring the Peterson Auto Museum: What You Need to Know
If you’re a car enthusiast, a visit to the Peterson Auto Museum in Los Angeles is a must-see experience that you won’t want to miss! Here are some essential details to help you prepare for your visit and make the most of your time at the museum.
Museum Address and Hours
The Peterson Auto Museum is located in the Miracle Mile District of Los Angeles, at 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036. It is open seven days a week, Monday-Sunday, from 10am-5pm. The museum has extended hours on select days, so be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
General admission to the Peterson Auto Museum costs $16 for adults, $14 for seniors (65+), $11 for students (with valid ID), and $7 for children ages 3-12. Members, groups, and active military personnel can receive discounts on admission.
If you plan to visit the museum several times per year, it could be beneficial to become a member. Members get free admission, exclusive access to special events and exhibits, and discounts on guided tours and the museum store.
Plan Your Visit
The Peterson Auto Museum offers a wide range of exhibits and events throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to plan your visit ahead of time. Visit their website to get updated information on current exhibits, special events, and parking.
If you’re a first-time visitor, consider booking a guided tour or getting an audio guide to help you navigate the museum’s vast collection. You can also download the Peterson Auto Museum app for free on your smartphone, which includes an interactive map and detailed information about the exhibits.
The museum’s main exhibit is on the third floor, but be sure to visit the lower levels as well, including the interactive Discovery Center and the Vault, where you can view rare and unusual cars. There is also a gift shop on the first floor, where you can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia.
Conclusion
The Peterson Auto Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in cars, history, and design. With its impressive collection, engaging exhibits, and special events, it’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Make sure to plan your visit ahead of time to get the most out of your experience and learn about the rich history of the automobile industry.
The Future of the Peterson Auto Museum
Expanding Exhibits and Collections
The Peterson Auto Museum has been a significant treasure trove for automobile enthusiasts for several years. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the automobile industry and showcasing it to the world. Consequently, the Peterson Auto Museum is continually expanding its exhibits and collections to provide an unforgettable experience to its visitors.
The recent additions to the museum include a Hollywood Gallery and a Rolling Sculpture exhibit. The Hollywood Gallery is a tribute to famous automobile designs featured in Hollywood movies. Some notable cars on display include the original Batmobile from the 1960s television series and the Aston Martin from the James Bond movies.
The Rolling Sculpture exhibit features custom-built cars from renowned car designers such as Ronin and Steve Moal. In preparation for this exhibit, the cars were restored to their original factory conditions and presented in a way that captures the essence of automotive art.
The museum’s expansion has not stopped with these exhibits. The Peterson Auto Museum regularly adds new and exciting collections, ensuring that visitors always encounter something new on every trip.
Community Engagement
The Peterson Auto Museum is not just a point of interest for car lovers worldwide, but it is deeply embedded in the local community. The museum offers various educational programs and outreach initiatives aimed at creating an immersive and engaging experience for visitors.
The museum’s educational programs include school visits, which give students the opportunity to learn about the automobile industry’s history and various technical aspects. Additionally, the museum hosts various seminars and workshops, which discuss relevant topics such as automobile manufacturing and preservation and environmental awareness.
The Peterson Auto Museum is also involved with several organizations in the community. For instance, the museum partners with local schools to provide educational resources that supplement the students’ learning experience. Additionally, the museum works with other cultural institutions in the community to create collaborative exhibits and projects.
Preserving Automotive History for Future Generations
The Peterson Auto Museum is committed to preserving the history of the automobile industry for future generations. The innovation and evolution of the automobile significantly impacted society and culture worldwide. Therefore, the museum strives to showcase this impact, providing an opportunity to learn about how the industry developed over time.
The museum’s permanent exhibits are a testimony to the institution’s commitment to preserving automotive history. Some of the notable exhibits include the history of the automobile industry, the evolution of car design, and the influence of cars in Hollywood movies over the years.
Moreover, the Peterson Auto Museum has taken steps to digitalize some of its collections, thereby making it easier for visitors worldwide to access them. For instance, the museum has developed an online database of its collections, allowing visitors to browse and learn more about the cars on display. Additionally, the museum regularly hosts online webinars, which feature experts sharing their insights on various topics related to the automobile industry.
In conclusion, the Peterson Auto Museum is a world-class museum dedicated to preserving the history and evolution of the automobile industry. Its commitment to showcasing this history through expansion, engaging the community, and preserving collections for future generations has made it a top destination for automobile enthusiasts worldwide.