6060 Wilshire Blvd. | |
| 323.930.2277 | |
| http://www.petersen.org | |
| Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm | |
| Cost: Adults $10; Students & Seniors $5; Children (5-12) $3, (under 5) free; Major credit cards are accepted. | |
| Ages: 5-18 |
Activities and Resources
- CAMPS
- CHILDCARE
- CLASSES
- ENTERTAINMENT
- INDOORS
- KIDS RESOURCES
- LEAGUES & TEAMS
- LODGINGS
- OUTDOORS
- PARENTS RESOURCES
- PARTIES
- RESTAURANTS
- SCHOOLS
- STORES
- TOURIST STOPS
- TRANSPORTATION
Free Stuff
Find free things to do near you!
Blogs and Sites
Check out some of our favorite blogs!
About Petersen Automotive Museum
On your mark, get set, go to this massive museum of motion. The Petersen Automotive Museum has three floors of four- (and two-) wheel heaven that will engage even the most mild car fans.
The first floor, called Streetscape, puts visitors on a road trip through vehicular history, from horse-drawn carriages to current cars. Each of the various vehicles is shown in their its own distinctive environment, complete with asphalt and sidewalks. You'll find everything from an American Underslung caught in a muddy trap, to a Laurel and Hardy trolley car, to solar-powered cars of the future.
On floor two, a veritable explosion of automotive exhibition occurs. Six galleries display such treats as roadsters, race cars, and classic autos. Hogs and bikes get their due in the Otis Chandler Motorcycle Gallery. One of the most understandably popular attractions is the Hollywood Gallery, featuring cars that starred on film or television, or that were owned by celebrities.
The Discovery Center runs the course of floor three, presenting the museum's most interactive opportunities. Kids can dress up in period costumes and get behind the wheel of a Model T. With flashing lights and rousing siren, they can experience an authentic Highway Patrol motorcycle.
For toddlers, the Discovery Center lays out story books, building blocks, a coloring wall, and educational toys. Older kids will enjoy the Giant Engine ride in which people manually push the larger-than-life pistons of an oversize combustion engine.
The museum has other activities and classes for kids, including the Family Fun Shops, Summer Camp, and Discovery Days. Ask a museum employee for the offerings available on the day you visit. Tours are also offered for homeschool groups at all grade levels.
The first floor, called Streetscape, puts visitors on a road trip through vehicular history, from horse-drawn carriages to current cars. Each of the various vehicles is shown in their its own distinctive environment, complete with asphalt and sidewalks. You'll find everything from an American Underslung caught in a muddy trap, to a Laurel and Hardy trolley car, to solar-powered cars of the future.
On floor two, a veritable explosion of automotive exhibition occurs. Six galleries display such treats as roadsters, race cars, and classic autos. Hogs and bikes get their due in the Otis Chandler Motorcycle Gallery. One of the most understandably popular attractions is the Hollywood Gallery, featuring cars that starred on film or television, or that were owned by celebrities.
The Discovery Center runs the course of floor three, presenting the museum's most interactive opportunities. Kids can dress up in period costumes and get behind the wheel of a Model T. With flashing lights and rousing siren, they can experience an authentic Highway Patrol motorcycle.
For toddlers, the Discovery Center lays out story books, building blocks, a coloring wall, and educational toys. Older kids will enjoy the Giant Engine ride in which people manually push the larger-than-life pistons of an oversize combustion engine.
The museum has other activities and classes for kids, including the Family Fun Shops, Summer Camp, and Discovery Days. Ask a museum employee for the offerings available on the day you visit. Tours are also offered for homeschool groups at all grade levels.
Tips
Take the kids to the Discovery Center first, so they can get the most out of the many interactive experiences.
Although the museum is closed on Mondays, it opens for most Monday holidays, so don't rule it out for Labor Day, etc...
Although the museum is closed on Mondays, it opens for most Monday holidays, so don't rule it out for Labor Day, etc...
Getting There
On the southeast corner of Wilshire Blvd. and Fairfax Avenue, across from the Boone's Children Gallery at LACMA. The parking structure is accessible from Fairfax Avenue. It's $8 for entire day.
Petersen Automotive Museum
- Hot Wheels Hall of Fame Ongoing Daily except Mon
- Automotive Awareness 101 3/6/10
Parent Reviews
(3 reviews)
Average Parent Rating: 
Rated by 3 parents
- I loved this museum. My son is five years old and he had a ball. We visited during the Hot Wheels exhibit. The staff was friendly and protective. The kids floor is great especially with the dress up costumes. I think this would be a great outing for kids interested in cars.
[Submitted by nynesmommy1/25/10 - Museum workers follow kids/families around in a menacing manner constantly telling children to stay away from exhibits. We spent most of the time trying to get our 2 yr olds to be quiet and not touch than actually enjoying things. The interactive area was cute & there were a few photo ops.
[Submitted by Michelle2/08/08 - We went expecting for the interactive area to be fun and engaging. It was boring. Not much there to get our hands on. The second floor was much more exciting.
[Submitted by Anonymous1/07/07
What's Great Nearby
Loading...
Loading...
