Surrounded by all of downtown Los Angeles, the Petersen Automotive Museum stands out in its surroundings. A sculpted and modern architectural form wrapped in undulating stainless steel. The building beckons with a promise of wonder just inside.

The museum is dark. There are no windows. The ultra violet light from the outside kept carefully away from these pampered and pristine examples of the normally ubiquitous automobile. Each display is carefully lit with radiant spot lights which bathe the vehicles in a purposeful, neutral cast to ensure your attention is drawn – like a moth to a flame.

From Model A to Zephyr, this institution of automotive excellence does not disappoint

There is a sense of respect given to the automobiles within these walls. Each display honors the craft, design and purpose that these machines contribute to our lives. But more so, the statement, the culture and the impact. The museum strives to communicate that the car is more than an appliance. It is a modern historical companion.

Concept cars are born when imaginations are allowed to run free

There are automotive examples you will not find anywhere else. At the time of our exclusive invitation to visit and document the Petersen Museum for this article, The Art of Bugatti exhibit was on display. Many of these pieces have not been on display or in the public eye for decades. In addition, there are features of furniture, paintings and artwork from this unique and special family of artists and craftsmen.

The exterior features a stainless-steel ribbon assembly, made of 100 tons of 14-gauge type 304 steel in 308 sections, 25 supports and 140,000 custom stainless-steel screws

An ever-popular collection is the movie car collection, or “Star Cars”.  A wonderful selection of cars we have bonded with in our youth, and through today. The original Bat Cycle with its whimsically designed side-car is featured prominently on a raised foundation. The Batcycle made its first appearance in 1966 in the Batman TV series. Not far away, a newer Batmobile from the movies Batman and Batman Returns. As you walk down the row of Star Cars you will see some of the more notable cars are: the Back to the Future Delorean, the Thunderbird from Thelma and Louise, and the Ferrari 308 from Magnum P.I.  Personally I was drawn to an original Herbie the Love Bug from the movie Herbie: Fully Loaded, and the infamous red Plymouth Fury known as Christine.

Each display is carefully lit with radiant spot lights…

Not to be missed is The High Art of Riding Low: Ranflas, Corazón e Inspiración. This is an exceptional collection of iconic and inspired lowriders which embody the formation of multicultural communities through a passion for this form of car customization.  As “canvases of self-expression,” lowriders serve as the basis of artistic creativity. This exhibition is only through July 2018, so do not miss this wonderful collection.

Without question, this should be a destination for you if you appreciate the finest examples of the automotive influence. There is something special about the meticulous care and respect these automotive jewels are given at the Petersen. Experience it for yourself. If you’re like me, you’ll find a new reason to love your local car show rat rods, sleds and jalopies. It shows that all cars have character. And we love them for it.

In 2015, the museum underwent an extensive $90 million renovation

One place proved too illusive for us on our visit was The Vault. Deep below the museum is a trove of supremely unique vehicles with historical significance and pedigree. No cameras are allowed in The Vault, so our work here was done. But we will definitely be back!

Be sure to make time for all the spectacular displays and The Vault experience at the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Our thanks to Kat for the personal tour and all the staff at The Petersen for their remarkable work.

Not to be missed is The High Art of Riding Low: Ranflas, Corazón e Inspiración. This is an exceptional collection of iconic and inspired lowriders…

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