Los Angeles: Petersen Automotive Museum Vault Access

Discovering the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault Access: An In-Depth Review

If you’re a car enthusiast or simply love unique museum experiences, the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles offers a compelling journey through over 120 years of automotive history. This tour combines general admission to the expansive exhibits with exclusive access to the “Vault”, where some of the most iconic and rare cars are stored.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll have the chance to see 250 one-of-a-kind cars from around the world. Second, the interactive and educational exhibits make it engaging for all ages. Third, the Vault itself is a highlight—an exclusive 90-minute behind-the-scenes showcase of pristine vintage, super, and concept cars that you can’t see elsewhere.

A potential consideration is the cost of $48 per person, which reflects the quality and exclusivity of the visit, but for car fans, this is a fair price for such a comprehensive experience. It’s best suited for those who appreciate automotive design, history, or are looking for a family-friendly yet educational outing in Los Angeles.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Extensive Collection: Over 250 rare, vintage, and modern vehicles on display in the Vault.
• Interactive Exhibits: Engaging displays that appeal to both kids and adults.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff and a guide, Stephen, who is highly praised for his expertise.
• Flexible Access: Self-guided 90-minute tour of the Vault plus general museum entry.
• Value for Money: Includes access to 25 galleries and the Vault for $48.
• Accessible for All: Wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with some age restrictions.

A Complete Look at the Experience

The Petersen Automotive Museum is renowned for its vast collection of automobiles, and with this ticket, visitors gain access to both the regular exhibits and the exclusive Vault. The museum itself spreads across three floors, with 25 galleries highlighting everything from early horseless carriages to cutting-edge electric vehicles.

What to Expect at the Main Exhibits

Once inside, you’ll find yourself among classic cars like the 1910 Ford Model T Roadster, and the famous DeLorean “Time Machine” from Back to the Future. These displays are thoughtfully curated to tell the story of how cars transformed over the past century. The exhibits also include vintage motorcycles and trucks, providing a comprehensive look at automotive evolution.

Most reviewers agree that the museum’s layout is engaging, with many exhibits offering interactive components. For example, some displays invite visitors to press buttons or explore the engineering behind certain models, making it fun for children and adults alike. One visitor noted, “the museum could have a bit more interactive activities for women and kids that tag along,” suggesting there’s room for further engagement, but overall, the current setup is quite enjoyable.

The Vault Experience

The 90-minute Vault tour is what many visitors consider the highlight. This basement showcase is a treasure trove of over 250 vehicles, including historic cars, head-of-state models, award-winning hot rods, and innovative concept cars. The Vault is kept under strict security, and access is by guided tour—self-guided is not an option here.

During the guided Vault tour, you’re accompanied by knowledgeable staff, like Stephen, who has received praise for his expertise and lively storytelling. One reviewer remarked, “Stephen was awesome, a wealth of knowledge,” which hints at the quality of the guiding. The Vault feels like a secret showroom where you can truly appreciate the beauty and engineering of these rare vehicles.

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Why the Vault is Worth the Price

Many visitors highlight how the Vault is a “Chrome overload” and “magical” experience, especially for anyone passionate about cars. You’ll see everything from early 1900s models to modern supercars with sleek designs and mind-blowing performance specs. The rarity of some cars makes it a once-in-a-lifetime visit.

Practical Details: Timing, Price, and Accessibility

The tour lasts an entire day, but the Vault itself is a 90-minute segment. The general admission ticket is priced at $48, which provides access to all the main galleries. When you consider the number of exhibits—25 rooms across three floors—and the exclusivity of the Vault, this price seems fair for automotive enthusiasts.

The museum is wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable outing for visitors with mobility needs. The starting times vary, so checking availability in advance is recommended.

How the Experience Fits Your Interests

This experience is especially beneficial if you’re keen on discovering iconic cars from movies or history, or if you want to learn about automotive innovation. The reviews consistently praise the staff, noting their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the visit.

For families, the exhibits are engaging, though children under 10 might find the Vault tour a bit restrictive since it is geared toward older audiences. Still, the overall museum offers enough visual appeal to satisfy younger visitors.

Overall Value and Who Should Consider It

This tour provides excellent value for those interested in automotive history, design, or pop culture. The combination of main exhibits and exclusive Vault access offers a well-rounded experience, whether you’re visiting Los Angeles for a few days or are a local looking for a fascinating outing.

The knowledgeable guides, especially Stephen, elevate the experience, turning a simple museum visit into an educational journey. The interactive displays add a layer of engagement, making it more than just looking at cars—they tell stories.

If you’re someone who appreciates rare collections and the craftsmanship behind some of the world’s most famous cars, this tour is a fantastic choice. Conversely, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or less technical experience, it might be worth considering how much time you’ll want to dedicate.

Final Verdict

The Petersen Automotive Museum Vault Access is a standout experience for any car lover or history buff. The exclusive Vault tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most exceptional vehicles in existence, while the main exhibits provide context and entertainment.

The $48 price point is justified by the richness of the collection, the expertise of the staff, and the overall experience’s uniqueness. It’s a museum visit that balances educational value, visual delight, and fun—perfect for those who want to explore automotive milestones in style and comfort.

Whether you’re a die-hard automobile aficionado or simply seeking a memorable LA activity, this tour covers a lot of ground with style and substance. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and set aside enough time to truly appreciate the displays.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
You get general admission to the Petersen Automotive Museum, which covers 25 galleries filled with cars, plus a 90-minute self-guided tour of the Vault, and access to an audio guide via QR code.

Is the Vault tour guided?
Yes, the Vault tour is guided, and staff members like Stephen are highly praised for their knowledge. It’s a 90-minute experience where you’ll learn about the history and details of over 250 rare vehicles.

How much does it cost?
The standard ticket is $48 per person, which provides access to both the general exhibits and the Vault. This price is quite reasonable given the scope and exclusivity of the tour.

Is it suitable for children?
While the general museum is family-friendly, children under 10 might find the Vault tour less suitable due to its focus on more mature content and the exclusivity of some displays. The overall museum, however, offers engaging visuals for all ages.

How long should I plan to spend?
You can comfortably spend a full day exploring the exhibits, but the Vault itself lasts about 90 minutes. You might want to allocate extra time for browsing the main galleries and enjoying interactive displays.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Petersen Automotive Museum is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for visitors with mobility needs.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into automotive history with exclusive access to some of the most incredible cars in the world. It’s a must-visit for car aficionados and anyone interested in how automobiles have shaped culture and innovation over the last century.

You can check availability for your dates here: