Rev Up Your Day: Exploring the Petersen Automotive Museum

Exploring Petersen Automotive Museum

Museum Overview

I was thrilled to discover the Petersen Automotive Museum, a gem located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1994 by Robert Petersen and his wife Margie, this museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the automotive industry and its rich history. The museum boasts a collection of rare and stunning vehicles, with over 150 cars displayed across 25 galleries. Each exhibit is carefully curated to showcase the evolution of car culture and its impact on society. The architecture of the museum itself is a sight to behold, featuring stainless steel ribbons that wrap around the building, designed by the acclaimed firm Kohn Pedersen Fox.

The museum’s mission is to explore and present the history of automobiles, illustrating their influence on global life and culture, particularly in Los Angeles. For those interested in exploring more amazing museums, check out the best los angeles museums.

Renovation and Reopening

In 2015, the Petersen Automotive Museum underwent a remarkable transformation with a $90 million renovation. This extensive renovation significantly increased the museum’s exhibit space and enhanced the visitor experience. Since reopening, it has become a must-visit destination, attracting over 4 million visitors, thanks in part to its elevated architecture and captivating exhibits (Beverly Press).

The renovation expanded the museum’s capabilities to host a variety of rotating exhibits, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to see. The combination of the museum’s eye-catching design and its engaging displays makes it a perfect outing for families and individuals looking for a fun experience steeped in history. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out other iconic spots in the area, such as the getty center and los angeles county museum of art (lacma).

Visiting Information

Hours of Operation

I am excited to share that the Petersen Automotive Museum is open every day of the week! Here are the operating hours:

Make sure to arrive before the admissions desk closes at 4:30 PM to ensure you have enough time to explore the incredible exhibits!

Location and Accessibility

The Petersen Automotive Museum is conveniently located at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles, California. It is one of the largest and most prestigious automotive museums in the world!

The museum is designed for accessibility, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy its fascinating collections and exhibits. Whether you are visiting alone or with family, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a fantastic place to experience automotive history. For more information on other exciting places to visit, check out our list of the best los angeles museums.

With its amazing architecture and extensive collection of over 150 vehicles, the Petersen is sure to captivate anyone who walks through its doors!

Exhibits and Collections

The Petersen Automotive Museum is a treasure trove for car lovers and history buffs alike. As I explored the exhibits, I was amazed by the rich tapestry of automotive history presented through various collections.

Permanent Exhibits

The museum showcases over 100 years of automotive history through 25 interactive exhibits. From classic cars to cutting-edge designs, each exhibit tells a unique story about the evolution of vehicles and their impact on culture, especially in Los Angeles. The permanent collection is a must-see for anyone interested in how automobiles have shaped our lives.

For a deeper dive into the collection, check out the museum’s official site for more details.

Special Exhibits

What excites me most about the Petersen is the variety of special exhibits that change regularly. These exhibits spotlight different aspects of automotive culture, history, and innovation, ensuring that there’s always something new and thrilling to experience. From electric vehicle advancements to classic car restorations, each special exhibit offers unique insights into the automotive world.

Recent special exhibits have included:

Make sure to check the museum’s events page for the latest updates on special exhibits!

Vault Tour Experience

One of the highlights of my visit was the Vault Tour experience. This exclusive tour takes visitors into the museum’s expanded Vault, where hidden treasures await. Here, I saw 250 of the world’s rarest vehicles, including a 1923 Mercedes Targa Florio, a 1939 Shah Bugatti, and a 1966 GT 40. The guided tour provided fascinating insights into each vehicle’s history and significance.

The Vault Tour is a fantastic way to see cars that are rarely displayed on the main levels, making it a perfect adventure for any car enthusiast. Reservations are recommended due to limited availability, so plan ahead!

For more information about upcoming exhibits and experiences, visit the Petersen’s official site and get ready for a fun day immersed in automotive history.

Interactive Experiences

Visiting the Petersen Automotive Museum is not just about seeing cars; it’s about diving into a world of interactive experiences that are fun for everyone! Whether I’m visiting with family or friends, I find that these engaging activities add a whole new layer to the museum experience.

Discovery Center

The Discovery Center is a fantastic interactive space where both children and adults can explore the science, technology, engineering, and math behind automotive design and engineering. I love how it makes learning so much fun! Visitors can engage with hands-on exhibits that allow them to understand how cars work and the innovations in automotive technology. This immersive experience is perfect for car enthusiasts and curious minds alike. You can easily spend hours here, discovering the fascinating world of automobiles in a way that feels like play.

For more details on what to expect, check out the full overview of the museum’s interactive features on the Petersen Automotive Museum website.

Little Sparks Workshop Series

The Little Sparks Workshop Series is another highlight, especially for families with young children. Held on the third Saturday of each month from 9 am to 10 am, this workshop is designed for kids aged 3-6. I find it to be a delightful way for little ones to engage with the automotive world through games, art projects, and exploration of the museum’s collection. The best part? It’s free with the purchase of museum admission!

The upcoming workshop on Saturday, March 16th, will focus on the theme “My Car + Me.” Participants will learn about the essential steps of taking care of a car, including fun activities like learning to drive and taking their cardboard car to the car wash. It’s a wonderful opportunity for kids to get creative while learning about automotive care!

For more information about this exciting series, visit the Petersen Automotive Museum Events page.

With interactive experiences like the Discovery Center and the Little Sparks Workshop Series, the Petersen Automotive Museum truly stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to have an exciting and educational day in Los Angeles! If you’re interested in exploring more museums in the area, check out our list of the best Los Angeles museums.

Museum Events

Upcoming Workshops

I’m thrilled to share that the Petersen Automotive Museum hosts exciting workshops that cater to families and children! One of the highlights is the Little Sparks workshop series, designed for kids ages 3-6. These workshops take place on the third Saturday of each month from 9 am to 10 am. It’s an incredible opportunity for little ones to play games, create artwork, and explore the amazing museum collection. Best of all, the workshop is free with the purchase of museum admission!

The next workshop is on Saturday, March 16th, focusing on the theme “My Car + Me.” Participants will learn about essential car care steps, from learning to drive to taking the car to the wash. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own cardboard car for added fun. For more details on upcoming events and to register, visit the Petersen Automotive Museum Events page.

Community Events

The Petersen Automotive Museum also engages with the community through various events designed to bring people together. These events often feature interactive activities and educational opportunities for all ages. While specific community events may vary throughout the year, they usually include car shows, family days, and special themed nights.

Members of the Petersen Automotive Museum enjoy complimentary parking at these events, making it even easier to participate. If you’re interested in checking out the museum’s calendar for community events, be sure to visit the Petersen Automotive Museum Events page for the latest updates.

Whether you’re visiting for a workshop or a community event, the Petersen Automotive Museum promises an unforgettable experience. It’s one of the best Los Angeles museums to explore, learn, and connect with fellow automotive enthusiasts!

Museum History

Founding Story

I find it fascinating to explore the rich history of the Petersen Automotive Museum. Founded by the visionary publishing magnate Robert E. Petersen and his wife Margie, this museum became the first central location in Los Angeles dedicated to celebrating the entire spectrum of automotive history, industry, culture, and artistry. In a city known for its car-centric nature, this museum truly fills a unique niche, making it an exciting destination for anyone interested in vehicles. For more details, you can visit the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Petersen Automotive Museum resonates deeply with me. It aims to explore and showcase the history of automobiles, illustrating their profound impact on global life and culture, especially in Los Angeles. The museum envisions itself as a globally respected center for automotive research and collecting, making it a focal point for automotive history and enthusiasm in the United States. Not only does it serve as a leading educational institution, but it also positions itself as a progressive institution thriving in our rapidly evolving society. The commitment to being a respected hub for automotive research and education makes the Petersen Automotive Museum a must-visit for anyone curious about automotive history. To learn more about this amazing institution, check out the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Unique Features

Architecture and Design

The architecture of the Petersen Automotive Museum is as captivating as the vehicles inside. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, the building underwent a stunning $90 million transformation in 2015. This renovation expanded exhibit space significantly, now boasting 25 galleries and showcasing over 150 vehicles. The exterior features striking stainless steel ribbons that wrap around the structure, creating a visual representation of movement and speed, much like the cars it houses (Petersen Automotive Museum).

The design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also embodies the spirit of automotive history, making the museum a work of art in its own right. Located on the famous Wilshire Boulevard, it stands as a tribute to Los Angeles’ rich automobile culture. Visiting this museum feels like stepping into a modern art piece dedicated to the history of cars.

For anyone interested in architecture and design, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a must-see. It’s not only about the cars; the building itself tells a story of innovation and creativity.

Rolex Partnership

An exciting aspect of the Petersen Automotive Museum is its partnership with Rolex. This collaboration highlights the shared values of precision, craftsmanship, and a passion for excellence that both brands represent. Rolex is known for its high-quality watches, and the brand’s involvement at the museum adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the automotive experience.

The partnership includes curated exhibits that showcase the intersection of automotive engineering and horology. Visitors can explore how timing and performance play vital roles in both fields. This unique collaboration enhances the visitor experience, making it a perfect blend of speed, style, and precision.

Whether you’re an automotive enthusiast or just looking for an engaging family outing, the Petersen Automotive Museum offers a thrilling journey through car culture and history, all while enjoying the stunning architecture and the allure of luxury brands like Rolex. For more fun museum experiences in Los Angeles, check out our list of the best los angeles museums.

Visitor Experience

The Petersen Automotive Museum offers an exciting and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. From amenities that enhance your visit to educational programs that enrich your knowledge, there’s something for everyone.

Visitor Amenities

Upon entering the museum, visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities designed to make their experience comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the key features:

The museum showcases over 300 vehicles, from classic cars to motorcycles, ensuring that I am always surrounded by stunning displays and fascinating history (Atomic Redhead).

Educational Programs

The educational offerings at the Petersen Automotive Museum are truly impressive. Visitors can dive into the world of automotive technology through interactive exhibits and workshops. Here are some highlights:

• Discovery Center: An interactive space where I can learn about the science, technology, engineering, and math behind automotive engineering and design. This area is fun for both kids and adults, making it a fantastic family experience (Atomic Redhead).

• Little Sparks Workshop Series: This monthly workshop is designed for children ages 3-6, held on the third Saturday of each month from 9 am to 10 am. The workshop includes playing games, creating artwork, and exploring the museum collection. Best of all, it’s free with the purchase of museum admission (Petersen Automotive Museum Events).

Whether I am visiting alone or with family, the visitor amenities and educational programs at the Petersen Automotive Museum enhance my experience and leave me excited for my next visit. For those looking to explore more museums in Los Angeles, check out our guide to the best Los Angeles museums.