Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles - a car dashboard with a speedometer and other electronic devices
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Petersen Automotive Museum Los Angeles

4.8
·13k reviews·Los Angeles, United States

A world-class automotive museum showcasing rare classics, movie cars, and cutting-edge hypercars.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles - a car dashboard with a speedometer and other electronic devices

Petersen Automotive Museum Los Angeles

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-class automotive museum showcasing rare classics, movie cars, and cutting-edge hypercars.

4.8
(13k reviews)

"The Petersen Automotive Museum is a must-visit, even if you're not a car person!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Don't Miss The Vault!

Many visitors call The Vault the best part. Book the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' for access to hidden gems.

🚗 Movie Car Magic

Spot famous cars from films like Fast & Furious and Batman. A thrill for pop culture fans!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Vault

The Vault

Underground level

Discover rare and unique vehicles not always on public display. A must-see for any car enthusiast!

Movie & TV Cars

Movie & TV Cars

Various exhibits

See iconic vehicles from Hollywood blockbusters like the Batcycle and Suki's Honda S2000.

TikTok+2
Lowrider Icons

Lowrider Icons

Special exhibition space

Experience the artistry and culture of lowrider cars in a stunning, dedicated exhibit.

TikTokInstagram
Hypercars & Supercars

Hypercars & Supercars

Various exhibits

Marvel at the cutting-edge design and engineering of the world's most exclusive automobiles.

TikTokInstagram

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tickets in Advance

While walk-ins are possible, booking tickets online for the Petersen Automotive Museum Los Angeles can save time, especially during peak hours. Consider the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' option for a more comprehensive experience, as many visitors rave about the hidden gems within The Vault. Reddit+1

Allocate Sufficient Time

Don't rush your visit to this expansive LA auto museum. To truly appreciate the diverse exhibits, including The Vault, plan for at least 3-4 hours. Families with children might find the interactive elements and Hot Wheels play area helpful for engagement. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍petersen automotive museum was made for car lovers ❤️‍🔥#coupletok #couple #dateideas #carlover #muesum #datenight #la #losangeles
@dynamicduoo333
90.9K likes • 294.8K views

🎯 Don't Miss The Vault!

Many visitors call The Vault the best part. Book the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' for access to hidden gems. Reddit+1

🚗 Movie Car Magic

Spot famous cars from films like Fast & Furious and Batman. A thrill for pop culture fans! TikTok+2

great date idea with my car loving boyfriend 🏎️🖤 #petersenautomotivemuseum #cartok #carlover #losangeles #dateidea #carmuseum #museum #thevault #sukis2000
@xkvnguyen
81.9K likes • 427.6K views
We toured the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, home to some of the rarest and most iconic cars in the world! We explored their extensive collection and exhibits, spotting which ones have bee...
hotwheelsofficial
7.2K likes • 196.5K views

✨ Lowrider Artistry

The Lowrider Icons exhibit is a visually stunning showcase of automotive culture. TikTokInstagram

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for 3-4 hours to explore fully, especially if visiting The Vault. Reddit

The Petersen Automotive Museum is a little over an hour from Disneyland and so much fun. This museum is ideal for car enthusiasts, but it really has something for everyone including: 🚗 Lightning Mc...
socaldailycasey
666 likes • 21.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Don't Miss The Vault!

Many visitors call The Vault the best part. Book the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' for access to hidden gems. Reddit+1

🚗 Movie Car Magic

Spot famous cars from films like Fast & Furious and Batman. A thrill for pop culture fans! TikTok+2

✨ Lowrider Artistry

The Lowrider Icons exhibit is a visually stunning showcase of automotive culture. TikTokInstagram

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for 3-4 hours to explore fully, especially if visiting The Vault. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Fun

Features a Hot Wheels play area and interactive exhibits for younger visitors. Reddit

📍 Location, Location!

Located in the Miracle Mile district, near LACMA and the La Brea Tar Pits. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Petersen Automotive Museum for its stunning and diverse collection, particularly highlighting the rare vehicles in The Vault and the iconic movie cars. While some find the ticket prices a bit high, the overall experience is widely considered exceptional, even for those not typically interested in cars. The museum's location and the quality of its exhibits make it a top attraction in Los Angeles.

"Was way more fun and exciting than I thought. Not expensive to visit. Great cafe. The cars were really interesting and really well spaced out so even with lots of people, you weren't crowded. I went because my son loves cars and I ended up enjoying it more than he did."

Kate Mallin

"I have no idea why after all these years living in SoCal that it took me so long to pay a visit to Petersen Automotive Museum. Went on a Friday and arrived around 11:30 a.m., and while it was busy, it wasn't overwhelmingly so. Ample parking on site, though it does cost, however, it is a pretty short walk to get inside. If you taking the time to tour this museum, I highly recommend paying the little extra to tour "The Vault" in addition to the main museum. It's located on the lower level and it houses such an amazing collection of cars spanning the years, which car enthusiasts and the like will appreciate. Honestly, one could easily spend hours down there in awe of these vehicles! The main museum is also really interesting as well. There are three separate levels within the main area and each has it's own unique theme. Along the way you will see a wide variety of automobiles as well as famous cars you might recognize from the movies. Even if you're not a gear-head you will enjoy your time here!"

Chris Westwood

"The museum is great such great classic cars from all the film era and limousines used by presidents. Such a great collection of cars from the Mexican era and also the first ever Harley Davidson bike . The F1 cars were great and the vault visit is well worth it as they have over 300 cars on show. A great day out by far such awesome collection of motor sport cars and F1 racing cars . Definitely worth the visit from 🇬🇧. I wanted to see the night rider car and A team van but was not there otherwise a awesome day to see such a massive variation of classic cars bikes movie cars motor sport cars 🙂🤗🇺🇸🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿"

Paul Sharma

What People Like

Incredible car variety
The Vault's hidden gems
Iconic movie cars

What People Dislike

Ticket prices can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Petersen Automotive Museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options include various bus lines that stop nearby. For those flying in, it's about a 30-40 minute drive from LAX, and some travelers have used layovers to visit. Reddit

Yes, the Petersen Automotive Museum offers on-site parking. It's advisable to check their official website for current parking rates and availability, as these can change. Reddit

Absolutely! With a 13-hour layover, you'll have ample time to visit the Petersen Automotive Museum. Just be sure to arrange for luggage storage at LAX or a nearby facility, and factor in travel time to and from the airport. Reddit

From Hollywood, you can take a bus or a rideshare service to the Petersen Automotive Museum. The drive is relatively short, typically under 30 minutes depending on traffic. Reddit

Yes, the Petersen is situated in the Miracle Mile district, making it convenient to visit other cultural landmarks. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, LACMA, and the La Brea Tar Pits are all located across the street or a short walk away. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but general admission for adults is typically around $20-$25. It's highly recommended to purchase the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' for an additional fee, as many visitors consider it essential for the full experience. Check the official Petersen Automotive Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing. Reddit+1

Previously, The Vault required a separate guided tour fee. However, the museum has updated its offerings, and now The Vault is generally accessible with the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' purchase, allowing for self-guided exploration. Reddit

The Petersen Automotive Museum is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. However, it's always best to verify the current operating hours on their official website before your visit, as these can be subject to change for holidays or special events.

Yes, you can usually purchase tickets at the door. However, buying tickets online in advance is recommended to save time, especially during busy periods or weekends. Reddit

The museum may offer discounts for seniors, students, and children. Check their official website for details on any available discounts or special offers. Group rates might also be available upon request.

🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience

To fully experience the Petersen Automotive Museum and The Vault, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you have children who aren't deeply interested in cars, 2-4 hours might be sufficient, especially with the interactive play area. Reddit

Highlights include The Vault for its rare vehicles, the collection of movie and TV cars (like from Fast & Furious and Batman), the stunning Lowrider Icons exhibit, and the impressive displays of hypercars and classic automobiles. TikTokInstagram+4

Yes, the museum is family-friendly. It features a dedicated play area with Hot Wheels tracks and art activities, making it engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but tripods and flash photography may be restricted in certain areas. It's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask museum staff if you're unsure.

The Vault is an underground storage area at the Petersen Automotive Museum that houses a vast collection of rare, unique, and historically significant vehicles not always on public display. It's considered a highlight by many visitors. Reddit+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Petersen Automotive Museum has a cafe or restaurant on-site, offering a convenient place to grab a bite to eat during your visit. Check their website for current dining options and hours.

Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries. There are usually designated areas where you can consume food purchased on-site or enjoy a break.

The museum is located in the vibrant Miracle Mile area, which offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. You'll find diverse culinary options within walking distance, from casual to upscale dining.

While specific details can vary, many museums offer a cafe or lounge area where visitors can relax. It's best to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for information on their current beverage service.

Museum cafes often strive to offer a variety of options. It's recommended to check the menu at the on-site cafe or inquire with staff upon arrival for the most current vegetarian and vegan choices.

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture itself is very photogenic. Inside, focus on the unique car designs, movie car displays, and the vibrant colors of the lowrider exhibit. The Vault also offers unique photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram+1

Tripods are generally not allowed inside the museum galleries to avoid obstructing other visitors and to protect the exhibits. Always check for specific signage or ask a museum attendant if you're unsure.

Flash photography is typically prohibited inside the museum to protect the delicate finishes of the vehicles and to avoid distracting other visitors. Non-flash photography is usually permitted.

The 'Lowrider Icons of the Street & Show' exhibit is incredibly photogenic with its vibrant colors and intricate details. The movie car displays, like the Batcycle, also make for fantastic shots. TikTokInstagram+1

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm zoom) is ideal for capturing both wide shots of the exhibits and details of the cars. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities can also produce great results, especially with the museum's varied lighting.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Petersen Automotive Museum is a surprisingly engaging destination for families. Beyond the impressive car displays, the museum features a dedicated play area with Hot Wheels tracks and art activities, ensuring younger visitors stay entertained. Reddit Plan for about 2-4 hours to keep the visit enjoyable without overwhelming the kids. The movie car exhibits and the sheer variety of vehicles can spark curiosity in children of all ages. Reddit

Consider purchasing the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' to give your family a more comprehensive experience, though the main galleries offer plenty to see. The museum's location in the Miracle Mile also means you're close to other family-friendly attractions like the La Brea Tar Pits, offering options for a full day of exploration.

🚗 Car Enthusiasts

For true car aficionados, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a pilgrimage site. The sheer breadth and depth of the collection, especially The Vault, are unparalleled. You'll find everything from rare hypercars and classic automobiles to significant race cars and vehicles with Hollywood pedigrees. Reddit+2

Don't miss the chance to explore The Vault, which many consider the crown jewel of the museum. The 'Lowrider Icons' exhibit offers a deep dive into a specific, vibrant automotive culture. Reddit users often debate its standing against other top museums, but consistently praise its unique offerings and the quality of its collection. Reddit+1

🎬 Movie & Pop Culture Fans

If your interest in cars stems from their appearances in movies and TV shows, the Petersen is a must-visit. You'll have the chance to see legendary vehicles like the Batcycle, Suki's Honda S2000 from 2 Fast 2 Furious, and other iconic movie cars up close. TikTok+2

This aspect of the museum offers a unique intersection of automotive history and cinematic storytelling. It's a fantastic opportunity to relive favorite movie moments and appreciate the design that made these vehicles stars in their own right. The exhibits are often visually striking and make for great photo opportunities. TikTok+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring The Vault: A Hidden Gem

The Vault is arguably the most talked-about section of the Petersen Automotive Museum, and for good reason. This underground area houses a rotating collection of rare, historically significant, and often unique vehicles that aren't always on public display. Many visitors consider it the absolute highlight of their visit, even if they aren't die-hard car enthusiasts. Reddit+2

Access to The Vault is typically included with the 'Adult Ticket + Vault' purchase, allowing for a self-guided exploration. Here, you might find anything from classic race cars to prototypes and vehicles with fascinating backstories. The sheer density and variety of automotive treasures packed into this space are astounding. It's a testament to the museum's extensive collection and its commitment to showcasing automotive history in its entirety. Reddit+1

Reddit users consistently emphasize the value of The Vault, with many stating it's '100% worth it' and that it contains 'as many or more cars in the vault as there are in the rest of the museum.' Reddit+2 If you're looking for an in-depth automotive experience, ensuring you have access to The Vault is paramount. It's where some of the most exclusive and intriguing machines are kept, offering a glimpse into automotive rarities. Reddit

Hollywood's Wheels: Cars on the Silver Screen

For fans of film and television, the Petersen Automotive Museum offers a thrilling journey through automotive history as seen on screen. The museum proudly displays iconic vehicles that have captured imaginations in blockbuster movies and popular TV shows. From the sleek lines of Suki's Honda S2000 in 2 Fast 2 Furious to the formidable Batcycle and Batmobile, these cars are more than just machines; they are characters in their own right. TikTok+2

These cinematic vehicles bring a unique sense of nostalgia and excitement to the museum experience. Seeing these cars up close allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and design that made them memorable on screen. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with pop culture through the lens of automotive design. TikTok creators often highlight these movie cars, showcasing their awe and excitement at seeing them in person. TikTok+2

Whether you're a car aficionado or a movie buff, the collection of screen-used vehicles at the Petersen provides a captivating blend of automotive engineering and Hollywood magic. It's a reminder of how cars have played a pivotal role in storytelling and have become cultural icons in their own right. TikTok+2

The Art of the Lowrider: A Cultural Showcase

The Petersen Automotive Museum's 'Lowrider Icons of the Street & Show' exhibit is a vibrant and essential part of the museum's offerings. This exhibition celebrates the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression inherent in the lowrider community. It showcases meticulously crafted vehicles that are not just cars, but rolling works of art, reflecting a unique subculture with deep roots in Los Angeles. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors are treated to an array of stunning lowriders, each adorned with intricate paint jobs, custom hydraulics, and unique interior designs. The exhibit highlights the dedication, skill, and passion that go into building and maintaining these iconic vehicles. It's an immersive experience that goes beyond the mechanics, delving into the history, music, and community that define lowrider culture. TikTokInstagram+1

This exhibition is frequently praised for its visual appeal and its respectful portrayal of lowrider artistry. It offers a different perspective on automotive enthusiasm, emphasizing creativity, community, and a distinct form of automotive expression. The vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship make it a highly photogenic and memorable part of any visit to the Petersen. TikTokInstagram+1

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