The Petersen Automotive Museum is dedicated to the exploration and presentation of the automobile and its impact on American life and culture using Los Angeles as the prime example.
Engage with families as they explore the hands-on experiences inside the Cars Mechanical Institute at the Rob and Melani Walton Discovery Center, designed through a groundbreaking partnership with Disney / Pixar. Help them learn more about the science behind cars, design their own personalized race car, or get inspired at one of the art and design stations.
Weekly, Monthly
55+, Adults
Individuals
Indoor
Formal
Weekdays, Weekends
Gallery Interpreter
Go on a journey of discovery with museum visitors as they experience the Petersen galleries. Chat. Share car stories. Ask questions. Make connections. And explore the art, industry, and history of the car together by engaging guests in conversational learning.
Weekly, Monthly
55+, Adults
Individuals
Indoor
Formal
Weekdays, Weekends
School Visit Guide
Take students on a journey of exploration by facilitating fun, hands-on, and interactive educational experiences at the brand new Petersen Automotive Museum. Partner with fellow volunteer educators to lead gallery talks, science and engineering demos, arts and crafts activities, and so much more for K-12 students visiting on a field trip.
Occasional, Weekly, Monthly
55+, Adults
Individuals
Indoor
Formal
Weekdays
How you help
Volunteering at the Petersen is an excellent way to experience the museum, interact with visitors from around the world, and help support the community. The Museum’s Education Team seeks enthusiastic, outgoing, and dedicated people to join our team of volunteers, the Pit Crew.
About us
On June 11, 1994, Margie and Robert E. Petersen fulfilled a long-time dream when they became founding benefactors to start the Petersen Automotive Museum, donating $5 million to the Los Angeles County National History Museum. Today, the Petersen Automotive Museum stands as the nation’s premiere automotive museum, serving hundred's of thousands of visitors each year. Encompassing more than 100,000 square feet, its exhibits feature more than 150 rare and classic cars, trucks and motorcycles.
