Petersen Automotive Museum
- Admission
- $21 adults, $19 seniors, $13 youth (ages 12-17), $11 children (ages 4-11), free for children under 4. Vault tours require an extra ticket.
- Hours
- Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Duration
- 2-4 hours
- Parking
- Paid parking garage on-site; validation available with ticket purchase.
- Access
- Fully wheelchair accessible, elevators to all floors, wheelchairs available for loan.
Spanning an entire city block, this museum is a paradise for car lovers, showcasing over 100 years of automotive history. Its eye-catching exterior of stainless-steel ribbons mimics the flow of wind, while inside sits everything from Hollywood film cars to rare concept vehicles. Don't miss the Vault, an underground treasure trove of motoring history.
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Located on Los Angeles's famous Miracle Mile, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a haven for car enthusiasts and design lovers alike. Originally founded in 1994 by publisher Robert E. Petersen, the museum underwent a massive renovation in 2015, wrapping the building in a striking, wind-tunnel-inspired stainless-steel ribbon facade. This eye-catching exterior sets the stage for the world-class collection housed within.
Inside, visitors will find over 100,000 square feet of exhibition space spanning three floors, each dedicated to different aspects of automotive history, industry, and artistry. The rotating displays feature more than 150 historic vehicles, including rare pre-war classics, cutting-edge concept cars, and iconic Hollywood star cars like the Batmobile and the DeLorean. Interactive galleries also explore the technology and design processes that shape the future of transportation.
The true crown jewel of the museum is "The Vault," an underground archive housing over 250 additional rare and unique vehicles from around the globe. This subterranean treasure trove offers docent-led tours that provide an intimate look at rare automotive history not seen on the main gallery floors. It is widely considered a bucket-list experience for any serious automotive enthusiast.
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museumVisitor Tips
- ◆ Book tickets for "The Vault" tour well in advance, as this exclusive basement collection requires an extra ticket and frequently sells out.
- ◆ Park in the museum's dedicated multi-level parking structure, but keep in mind that parking fees are not included in the general admission price.
- ◆ Allow at least three to four hours to fully explore all three floors of galleries plus the underground vault tour.
- ◆ Check the museum's online calendar before visiting, as they frequently host morning "Cruise-Ins" where local enthusiasts showcase their custom cars.
Heads Up
- ◆ Children under the age of 10 are strictly not permitted on the Vault tours due to safety regulations and the close proximity of priceless vehicles.
- ◆ Traffic along Wilshire Boulevard can be exceptionally heavy during morning and evening rush hours, so plan your transit times carefully.
Common questions
Is the Vault tour included with general admission to the Petersen Automotive Museum?
No, access to the Vault requires a separate, additional ticket and cannot be accessed with a standard general admission ticket alone. Children under the age of 10 are not permitted on Vault tours.
Are you allowed to take photos inside the Petersen Automotive Museum?
Handheld photography for personal use is allowed in the main galleries, but tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. Photography and video recording of any kind are strictly forbidden inside the Vault.
Does the Petersen Automotive Museum have on-site parking?
Yes, the museum has a multi-level paid parking garage accessible from Fairfax Avenue. The first 30 minutes of parking are free, after which a flat daily parking fee is charged.
How long does it take to go through the Petersen Automotive Museum?
It typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to view the exhibits on the main three floors. If you purchase an optional Vault tour, you should plan to spend an additional 75 to 120 minutes.