If you’re a car enthusiast, a history buff, or someone simply curious about automotive innovation, the Petersen Automotive Museum offers a tour that’s hard to beat. While we haven’t personally taken this exact private experience, reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this is a gem for anyone wanting an in-depth look at some of the world’s most stunning vehicles.
We love that this tour offers a personalized, one-hour glimpse into over 120 years of automotive evolution, covering everything from vintage classics to modern supercars. The access to more than 100 cars across three floors means there’s plenty to marvel at, and the focus on specialized exhibits like hot rods and the Hollywood Gallery keeps the experience exciting. The chance to explore at your own pace after the guided tour is a bonus, allowing for a relaxed, immersive visit.
One possible consideration is that, at just one hour, the private highlights tour offers a condensed experience. For true car aficionado or those wanting a broader visit, additional time or general admission might be worth considering.
This tour is perfect for families, car lovers, or visitors who want a curated, intimate look at some of the most iconic vehicles in the world without the crowds. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a well-structured itinerary.
Key Points
- Exclusive 1-hour private tour offers personalized insights into the museum’s highlights.
- Over 100 vintage and modern cars displayed across 25 exhibits across three floors.
- Engaging exhibits like Hollywood cars, hot rods, and the Mullin Grand Salon.
- Family-friendly activities such as virtual car painting, racing simulators, and character explanations.
- Flexible access to the entire museum after the tour with your admission ticket.
- Expert guides provide in-depth knowledge and engaging stories about the vehicles.
Exploring the Petersen Automotive Museum: What You Can Expect
Looking for more options in Wilshire Boulevard? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Private Tour Experience
The private highlights tour is designed to give you a focused, personalized experience of the museum’s most significant exhibits. Lasting about one hour, it’s ideal for those who want a curated look without feeling overwhelmed. Your guide will take you through three floors of automotive history, highlighting the most iconic and innovative vehicles from the past 120 years.
Reviews indicate that guides like Steve are knowledgeable and friendly, making the visit both informative and enjoyable. One visitor, Tony, mentioned that the tour “was outstanding and educational,” praising how all aspects of the collection were covered thoroughly. Irene highlighted how the guide’s friendliness and expertise made the experience even more engaging.
The Vehicle Collection: What You’ll See
The museum houses a vast collection of over 100 cars, trucks, and motorcycles, displayed across 25 themed exhibits. Expect to see everything from vintage early models to Italian supercars like Maseratis and Japanese supercars—each telling a different story about automotive engineering and design.
The Hollywood Gallery on the history floor provides a fascinating look at cars used in movies, making it a favorite for film buffs. Meanwhile, the Industry Floor showcases hot rods and customs, appealing to those who love racing and car modification culture. The Mullin Grand Salon on the Artistry Floor displays some of the most artistically significant vehicles, where you can marvel at their craftsmanship.
Interactive and Kid-Friendly Activities
Beyond the static exhibits, the museum offers playful activities that can keep children entertained. Kids can zoom toy cars around racetracks or paint and customize virtual cars, creating a memorable, hands-on experience. The Cars Mechanical Institute, inspired by animated films, features characters explaining mechanical systems, making complex engineering accessible for young visitors.
The Forza Motorsports Experience allows visitors to sit behind the virtual wheel of a race car and feel the thrill of high-speed racing in a safe, simulated environment. Reviewers have mentioned how engaging and fun these activities are for families, adding value to the overall experience.
More Great Tours NearbyMuseum Access and Flexibility
Your admission ticket grants access to the entire museum, so after your guided tour, you can wander freely at your own pace. This flexibility is perfect for those who want to revisit favorite exhibits or take additional photos.
Meeting point is straightforward—the museum’s Wilshire Boulevard location. The tour ends back where it started, making logistics simple. The activity is wheelchair accessible and available in English, with options for private groups.
Price and Value
At $171 for a private group, this experience offers a personalized, in-depth look at one of the world’s premier car collections. While it may seem pricey, reviews emphasize that the guide’s expertise and the curated nature of the tour deliver excellent value, especially for serious car enthusiasts. The opportunity to learn in a small, private setting is often more enriching than self-guided visits.
Why This Tour Might Be a Great Fit
This private highlights tour is ideal for those who value expert guidance and want an insider’s perspective on a world-class collection. It’s perfect for families with kids, as the museum’s interactive activities make it a fun and educational outing. Car lovers will appreciate the curated focus on iconic, historically significant vehicles, and movie fans will enjoy the Hollywood exhibits.
If you’re unphased by a shorter tour and prefer a personalized, intimate experience, this is a fantastic way to see the best of the Petersen without feeling rushed.
The Sum Up
For anyone visiting Los Angeles with an interest in cars, the Petersen Automotive Museum’s private highlights tour offers a well-balanced, engaging experience. Its focus on key vehicles, expert guides, and interactive activities makes it stand out as a value-packed option.
While the one-hour format may seem brief, the curated nature ensures you see the most exciting and significant parts of the collection. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a personalized, educational tour without the crowds and with plenty of opportunities to explore afterward.
This tour combines expert storytelling, stunning vehicles, and family-friendly fun in a way that most visitors will find worthwhile. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a dedicated car enthusiast, it’s a memorable way to appreciate automotive history in Los Angeles.
FAQ
How long is the private highlights tour?
It lasts approximately one hour, providing a focused look at the museum’s key exhibits.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes general admission to the museum plus the private guided tour.
Can I explore the museum after the tour?
Yes, your admission ticket grants you full access to the entire museum for self-guided exploration afterward.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the museum offers interactive activities like racing simulators and virtual car painting, making it family-friendly.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews praise guides like Steve for being very knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum and tour are wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity.
What types of cars are displayed?
Expect vintage cars, Italian supercars, Japanese vehicles, hot rods, and Hollywood cars among the exhibits.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since it’s a private group experience with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.