Seeking a quintessential Los Angeles adventure that transcends the ordinary museum visit? Look no further than the Petersen Automotive Museum. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, the museum stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of automobiles. With its stunning architecture and extensive collection of vehicles, the location offers a premier experience for visitors of all backgrounds, not just car enthusiasts.
An impressive array of classic cars neatly lined up inside The Vault.
One of the museum’s key attractions is its impressive collection of vintage cars. You can marvel at iconic models like the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, often considered the world’s first car, or admire the elegance of a 1939 Bugatti Type 57C. These vehicles offer a glimpse into the automotive history that has shaped our world.
Celebrate the magic of Pixar with the iconic vehicles from Cars at the Petersen Automotive Museum
The Petersen Automotive Museum is not just about cars; it’s a multi-story wonderland that caters to a wide range of interests and age groups. As you step into the museum, you’ll find yourself in the Discovery Center, a family-friendly space where young visitors can engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities like the Cars Mechanical Institute. It’s a great place to introduce children to the world of automobiles while keeping them entertained and educated.
A glimpse into the past, present, and future of Tesla’s groundbreaking vision. Pictured: The 2022 Tesla Model Y.
On the first floor you can also find “Inside Tesla: Supercharging the Electric Revolution,” exhibit which offers an in-depth look at the past, present, and future of Tesla. The exhibit explores the company’s history and its rise as a world leader in electric vehicles and clean energy technology. Gathering the most comprehensive collection of Tesla products to date, the exhibit features everything from early concept vehicles to rarely seen prototypes and world-record-breaking production vehicles.
The second floor is home to the museum’s rotating exhibits. From thematic displays of racing cars to exhibitions highlighting specific automotive eras or brands, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Even if you’ve been before, there’s a good chance you’ll find something fresh and intriguing.
Ghostbusters Ecto-1: A classic icon of paranormal pursuit. This legendary vehicle has been a symbol of supernatural adventure for decades, and it’s on display for all to admire.
Car enthusiasts and movie buffs alike will be captivated by the Hollywood Gallery located on the third floor. This floor, also known as The Otis Booth History Floor, houses the museum’s permanent collection, featuring a diverse array of vehicles and automotive history. Here, you can immerse yourself in the Omaze Hollywood Gallery, featuring a wide selection of cars, motorcycles and custom creations that have starred in popular movies and television series throughout the decades. Among the additions to this exhibit are vehicles from blockbusters like “Black Panther” and “Men in Black” as well as favorites like the1959 Cadillac Meteor, fondly known as the “Ecto-1” from the “Ghostbusters” trilogy.
Another gem within the museum is the Petersen Vault, a haven for rare treasures that are not often on display in the museum’s primary galleries. For an additional fee, visitors discover some of the most iconic and rare cars, motorcycles, and trucks spanning over 120 years of automotive history. Among the 250 rarest cars on display are a 1923 Mercedes Targa Florio, a 1939 Shah Bugatti, and a 1966 GT 40, which clinched victory in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
Inside the Vault, you can also find various Maranello Masterpieces, including the coveted 1947 Ferrari 125 S. Maranello Masterpieces is a short-term display in the Legends of the Vault Gallery featuring 10 of the most iconic and bespoke Ferrari’s to ever leave the factory.
After touring the gallery, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the museum store, where you can discover souvenir posters, miniatures, and apparel to commemorate your experience. For a bite to eat, make your way to the Meyers Manx Cafe, where you can savor delicious drinks and a satisfying lunch. Lastly, even if you don’t consider yourself a car enthusiast, a trip to the Petersen Automotive Museum can spark your curiosity and inspire a newfound interest in automobiles and their history. You may leave with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and innovation that goes into crafting these machines.
For more information, visit The Petersen Automotive Museum.
