VIBE

Entertaining, interactive automobile museum. Rather than the usual rows upon rows of dusty antique cars that are the stock and trade of most auto museums, the Petersen uses impressive diorama scenes and hands-on activities to place cars in their “natural habitats” and engage visitors. The collection includes hundreds of nifty vintage and celeb cars, including classic film vehicles like the Batmobile and Herbie the Love Bug, while specialist exhibits cover topics as diverse as the history of car insurance, Matchbox cars, and Southern California’s traffic systems.

GO HERE WITH

Car enthusiasts; friends; kids

WHY WE LIKE IT

Even if you’re not “into” cars, you’ll find yourself drawn in by their well-crafted exhibits. We especially like the dry wit worked into the commentary.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

On weekdays, it can be eerily quiet.

GOOD TO KNOW

Onsite parking is USD 8 with museum validation. If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great stop–the entire third floor of museum is an interactive children’s learning center. If you’re looking to fill a day, the Petersen Museum is close to other “Museum Row” sites like the LACMA and the La Brea Tar Pits.