Located in Los Angeles, California, the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault is a hidden gem for car enthusiasts. This massive underground facility is home to over 250 vehicles from different eras, including some rare and iconic ones. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into this fascinating museum, its history, and what makes it a must-visit destination for car lovers.
The History of Petersen Automotive Museum Vault
The Petersen Automotive Museum was founded in 1994 by Robert E. Petersen and his wife Margie. The museum was initially located in a former department store on Wilshire Boulevard. In 2000, the Petersen Automotive Museum moved to its current location on the corner of Wilshire and Fairfax, occupying a striking red building designed by architect, Gene Kohn.
The Petersen Automotive Museum Vault, which opened in 2012, was built to house the museum's extensive collection of vehicles that couldn't be displayed in the main museum. The vault is a 150,000 square-foot facility located beneath the museum and is accessible only through guided tours.
What to Expect When Visiting the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault
The Collection
The Petersen Automotive Museum Vault houses a diverse collection of vehicles from different eras, including some rare and iconic ones. Visitors can expect to see vintage cars from the early 1900s, classic American muscle cars from the 60s and 70s, and exotic cars from the 80s and 90s. The collection also includes motorcycles, race cars, and even some Hollywood movie cars.
One of the most notable cars in the collection is the 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, one of only four ever built. Another iconic car is the 1948 Tucker Torpedo, one of only 51 ever made. Visitors can also see the DeLorean DMC-12, made famous by the Back to the Future movie franchise.
The Vault Tour
Visiting the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault is not like any other museum visit. The tour takes visitors on a journey through the underground facility, showcasing some of the most unique and rare cars in the world. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about cars, and they provide visitors with fascinating insights and stories about the vehicles on display.
The tour is about two hours long and covers a distance of about a mile. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes since there's a lot of walking involved. The tour also includes a visit to the museum's restoration shop, where visitors can see the restoration process of some of the cars in the collection.
Why Visit the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault
A Unique Experience
Visiting the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for car enthusiasts. The collection of cars on display is unparalleled, and the tour provides visitors with an up-close look at some of the rarest and most iconic cars in the world. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience even more enjoyable.
An Educational Experience
The Petersen Automotive Museum Vault is not just a place to see cool cars; it's also an educational experience. The tour provides visitors with insights into the history of the automobile and its impact on society. Visitors can learn about the evolution of the automobile, from the early days of the horseless carriage to the modern-day supercar.
Conclusion
The Petersen Automotive Museum Vault is a hidden treasure trove for car enthusiasts. The collection of cars on display is unparalleled, and the tour provides visitors with a unique and educational experience. If you're a car enthusiast visiting Los Angeles, the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault is a must-visit destination.
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