If you’re into cars, or even just enjoy a well-curated collection of sleek, vintage, and innovative vehicles, the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is worth considering. As someone who’s seen a lot of museums, I can say this one stands out for its impressive range — from rare classic cars to modern supercars — all housed in a striking building on Wilshire Blvd.
What really caught our eye are the interactive exhibits that entertain beyond just looking at cars, and the sheer variety of vehicles on display. But, it’s not without a few things to keep in mind — like extra charges for access to some parts of the collection and the limited time most visitors spend here. This tour is probably best suited for auto enthusiasts or families who want a fun, visual experience without needing hours to explore.
One thing to note is that while the museum offers a wonderful overview of automotive history, some might find the general admission a bit light on content if they’re looking for in-depth insights. Still, at just $21 per person, the value is pretty good for a quick hit of automotive inspiration. So, if you’re in LA and love cars, or are traveling with kids who enjoy cars or racing, this might just fit the bill.
Key Points
- Large Collection: Over 100 vintage, classic, and show cars across three floors and 25 exhibits.
- Interactive Fun: Family-friendly activities like virtual car painting, racing, and character explanations.
- Focus on Innovation: Exhibits highlight automotive creativity from the 1880s to today.
- Extra Charges: Accessing the vault with more cars costs extra, and some reviewers found it less care-worthy.
- Great Value: At $21, it’s an affordable way to see a huge variety of vehicles in one spot.
- Quick Visit: Expect about an hour, which is enough for a solid overview but not an in-depth tour.
- Helpful Staff: Many reviews mention friendly, knowledgeable staff enhancing the experience.
- Good for Families & Enthusiasts: Interactive elements make it appealing for kids and casual visitors alike.
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers private groups if desired.
What You Can Expect at the Petersen Automotive Museum
The Petersen Automotive Museum is essentially a showcase of 120 years of automotive design and culture. If cars fascinate you, you’ll love the way the displays are arranged over three floors and 25 different galleries. Each area focuses on a different era, theme, or innovation, making it easy to follow the evolution of vehicles from the 1880s to modern times.
The Main Collection
The core of the museum is over 100 vintage cars, including some of the most iconic models from around the world. As you walk through, you’ll find everything from classic trucks to exotic Italian supercars. One visitor described it as “a fabulous collection of some really interesting and historical cars,” which sums up the diversity quite well.
The displays are beautifully laid out, and the attention to detail makes it a delight just to look around. Many reviews mention how “the cars are just stunning” and “well cared for.” You’ll see an impressive array of show cars and race cars, especially in the hot rods and custom collection. Racing fans will enjoy the vintage race vehicles that showcase automotive performance and style.
Interactive and Family-Friendly Exhibits
What we really appreciate are the interactive exhibits scattered throughout. Kids and adults can learn about the mechanics of cars at the Cars Mechanical Institute, inspired by animated films. They can paint and personalize virtual cars, race toy cars around a track, or feel what it’s like to drive a virtual race car with the Forza Motorsports Experience.
Many reviews highlight how the interactive elements make the visit more engaging. One visitor from Germany shared that the “great cars, friendly staff, lots of background info and just amazing photo opportunities” make it a worthwhile stop. These features turn a simple car display into a hands-on, memorable encounter.
The Vault & Extra Charges
A word of caution: the museum has a “Vault” — an underground garage with more than 250 cars. Access to this area costs extra, and one reviewer from Brazil pointed out that “you have to pay extra to see the cars in the Vault,” which are packed tightly and not always well-maintained. If you’re a serious car enthusiast wanting to see every last vehicle, expect to spend more than the basic ticket.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Duration & Layout
Most visitors report that an hour is enough to see the highlights, especially if you’re not planning to linger in every exhibit. The layout makes it easy to navigate, and the staff seems helpful, adding to a smooth experience. However, if you really love cars, you might wish for more time — some guests mentioned wishing they’d stayed longer to explore the vault or particular exhibits in detail.
Additional Practical Details
The admission fee of $21 is reasonable considering the collection size, but it’s not a huge amount of time or content. Reviewers who enjoyed their visit say it’s “worth the price,” especially when you factor in the interactive elements and variety of vehicles. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not allowed inside, and there’s a fee for parking, which some found a little steep ($17).
The museum is wheelchair accessible, with options for private group visits, adding convenience for different types of travelers. You can cancel or change your reservation up to 24 hours in advance, which offers some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.
Who Will Love the Petersen Automotive Museum?
This experience is ideal for car enthusiasts who want to see a wide range of vehicles in one place — from vintage classics to modern supercars. Families with children who enjoy cars or racing will find plenty to keep them entertained, especially with the interactive stations.
It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who want a quick, visually engaging experience without committing to hours. However, serious collectors or die-hard gearheads might find the exhibit details somewhat superficial, especially if they’re hoping for in-depth technical insights.
If you’re in LA and looking for a fun, inspiring, and visually striking stop, the Petersen Automotive Museum fits the bill. Just remember that some parts, like the vault, cost extra, and the visit itself is pretty brief. Plan accordingly if you want to see everything.
FAQ
Is the admission ticket for a specific time?
Yes, check availability for start times, as most visits are about an hour long.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, there are family-friendly interactive exhibits that kids tend to enjoy, like racing and virtual car activities.
Can I cancel my booking?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, accommodating different needs.
Are there private group options?
Yes, private group tours are available if you prefer a more personalized experience.
Does the price include access to all exhibits?
The general admission covers the main collection, but access to the Vault garage costs extra.
Is parking available nearby?
Yes, but expect to pay around $17 for parking, which some reviews found a bit costly.
How long does a typical visit last?
Most visitors spend about an hour, enough to see the key exhibits and enjoy the interactive stations.
Is there a guided tour option?
The provided info doesn’t specify guided tours, but staff are described as friendly and knowledgeable.
Los Angeles: Petersen Automotive Museum Admission Ticket
Final Thoughts
The Petersen Automotive Museum offers a solid glimpse into car history, design, and innovation. With a combination of stunning vehicles, interactive elements, and friendly staff, it makes for an engaging visit that appeals to a broad audience — whether you’re a hardcore car buff or just someone looking for a fun day out.
While the extra charge for access to the Vault might be a downside for some, the included collection still packs a punch, providing a colorful, dynamic overview of automotive evolution. The short duration makes it a good quick stop, but if you’re truly passionate or want to see everything, prepare for a second visit or an upgrade ticket.
Overall, if you’re in LA and want a reasonably priced way to enjoy a vibrant showcase of vehicles, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a worthwhile choice. It’s perfect for families, casual visitors, or anyone interested in the art and engineering of cars. Just keep your expectations aligned with the time you have — and enjoy the ride.
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