Automotive Education
Starts Here @ the Petersen
Your classroom curriculum will be enriched through our inquiry-based tours and our design-based activities that not only turn abstract concepts into real-world applications but also align with California curriculum standards.
Join our Museum Educators on a 75-minute interactive road trip around the museum to explore the history and science of the automobile. Our Educators will guide your students through fun STEAM-based activities to help facilitate learning. Our K-12 tours are designed to be customizable to best fit your classroom needs.
Assistance for Title 1 Schools & Students are available.
Frequently Asked Questions()
I want to book a tour. What do I do next?
Fill out the Inquire about a school section with your desired booking date.
Great, I filled it out. What’s next?
You will receive an email from our School’s Coordinator at bpdailla@petersen.org with information about booking, a scheduling packet, & school form. Please fill out the school form and submit the form back.
How long until I hear back with my date request?
Please allow 3-5 business days for a response from our education team. (Please note, turning in the school form does not guarantee submission. A confirmation email from our School’s Coordinator is required for the visit.)
Do you have lunchroom facilities?
Yes, it is per request only, and we have limited availability; you must have a confirmation email in order to use the lunch space promenade.
My group includes children with special needs. Do you offer special accommodations?
Yes, please indicate what accommodations you need on the school form once sent by our school’s coordinator.
Do you offer a self-guided experience?
Yes, we offer a self-guided experience from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. Please indicate a self-guided experience on the school form that is sent from our School’s Coordinator.
We have a guided visit scheduled, but we have additional chaperones who want to attend. Is this okay?
Please notify us as soon as possible at schooltours@petersen.org so that we can asses the feasibility of your request. We typically permit a 1:10 ratio of chaperones. Additional charges will apply for extra chaperones, and there is a limit to the number of chaperones allowed per assigned group.
How do I reschedule or cancel a confirmed appointment?
Please notify our team at schooltours@petersen.org asap so we can allow that space to another school. For rescheduling your visit, please notify us at bpadilla@petersen.org.
Do you have a place for buses or large vans to park at the Museum?
Unfortunately, we do not. You can drop off and pick up students on 8th Street and Orange Grove.
Do you offer summer programs?
Yes, we offer summer camps, youth groups, etc. The discount rate offered is $6 per child, $14 per adult. You can apply here for additional information. Click Here.
Are students allowed to visit the Gift Shop?
Yes. School groups may visit the Gift Shop after their guided tour. To ensure a safe and smooth experience, the following rules apply:
- Only one group of up to 10 students is allowed in the store at a time.
- One chaperone must accompany each group and remain with them at all times.
For Educators
The For Educators page connects teachers with field trips, programs, and resources that bring automotive history and innovation into the classroom.
Learn MoreBecome a Member
The Petersen Museum offer an exclusive membership program, featuring exclusive events, perks, discounts & more
Become a Member