Outside of the beautiful building
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Larz Anderson Auto Museum Boston

4.7
·897 reviews·Brookline, United States

Home to the oldest car collection in the U.S., this museum showcases vintage vehicles in a stunning Victorian carriage house.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer Weekends

Lawn events and car shows abound

CrowdMedium
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Outside of the beautiful building

Larz Anderson Auto Museum Boston

Best Time

Spring & Summer Weekends

Lawn events and car shows abound

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to the oldest car collection in the U.S., this museum showcases vintage vehicles in a stunning Victorian carriage house.

4.7
(897 reviews)

"A fun hidden gem, definitely worth checking out on a sunny day and then exploring the surrounding park!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Join the Museum Membership

Membership offers access to lawn events and is a great way to support the museum .

☀️ Perfect for Sunny Days

Combine your museum visit with exploring the beautiful Larz Anderson Park grounds .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Car Collection

Historic Car Collection

Main Exhibition Hall

Explore the oldest collection of motorcars in the U.S., featuring vehicles from the late 19th to early 20th centuries.

Car Show Events

Car Show Events

Museum Grounds

Witness a vibrant display of automotive passion at regular car meets and themed shows held on the estate.

Anderson Carriage House

Anderson Carriage House

Museum Building

Admire vintage and antique automobiles housed within a stunning chateau-style Victorian carriage house.

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Planning Your Visit

Check the Event Schedule

The Larz Anderson Auto Museum frequently hosts car shows and events on its beautiful estate grounds. These events are a major draw and offer a fantastic opportunity to see a wide variety of vehicles, from exotics to classics. Check their website for the latest lawn event schedule, as these are often the highlight of a visit.Reddit

Combine with Park Exploration

The museum is situated within the expansive Larz Anderson Park, a 64-acre green space with playing fields, picnic areas, gardens, and waterways. Visiting on a sunny day allows you to enjoy both the automotive exhibits and the scenic surroundings, making for a well-rounded outing.Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer Weekends
Why
Lawn events and car shows abound
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday Mornings
Why
Cars and Coffee events are popular
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

felt like I was somewhere in Europe #washingtondc #dcmuseums #dctiktok #larzandersonhouse #thingstodoindc #andersonhouse #versailles #thevatican #buckinghampalace #dmvtiktok #bestmuseums #beautifulmuseums #freemuseum #europe #foryoupage #fypシ
@beckyyvasquezz
52.8K likes • 402.4K views

🎯 Join the Museum Membership

Membership offers access to lawn events and is a great way to support the museum.Reddit

☀️ Perfect for Sunny Days

Combine your museum visit with exploring the beautiful Larz Anderson Park grounds.Instagram

Art in Bloom returns to the Lars Anderson House from March 20-23rd! 🌷 explore over 30+ stunning floral installations in one of DC’s prettiest museums. tix start at $22! #washingtondc #dcthingstodo #thingstododc #dupontcircle #dc #dmvtiktok #springtime #dctiktok #museumtok #springactivities
@maceyemyers
9.8K likes • 135.8K views
Larz Anderson Auto Museum is located in the Anderson Carriage House on the grounds of Larz Anderson Park in Brookline, Massachusetts and is the oldest collection of motorcars in the United States. The collection was begun by Larz Anderson and Isabel Weld Perkins soon after they married. In 1899 they purchased a “horseless carriage”. the Anderson bought thirty-two new motorcars. .As their cars bec...
tr3veller42
93 likes • 953 views

📸 Great Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of vintage cars and the historic estate.Reddit

🚗 Check Event Schedules

Many visitors highlight the car shows as a major draw.Reddit

Cruisin' through history at Larz Anderson Auto Museum with a pit stop to admire the elegance of Japanese autornotive artistry. It is one of the oldest museum in the United states, founded in 1927 and is situated on the hisotric Larz Anderson park estate. The museum is known for its collection of vintage and antique automobiles, including from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. The...
antonioperic
88 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Join the Museum Membership

Membership offers access to lawn events and is a great way to support the museum.Reddit

☀️ Perfect for Sunny Days

Combine your museum visit with exploring the beautiful Larz Anderson Park grounds.Instagram

📸 Great Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of vintage cars and the historic estate.Reddit

🚗 Check Event Schedules

Many visitors highlight the car shows as a major draw.Reddit

🚗 Exotic Car Sightings

Expect to see impressive exotics at special events like Tutto Italiano.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(897 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Larz Anderson Auto Museum for its significant collection of historic automobiles and its role as a hub for vibrant car shows and events. The beautiful estate grounds and knowledgeable staff are frequently highlighted as positives, making it a recommended destination for car lovers and those seeking a pleasant day out in a historic setting.

"A Ton of Automotive History 🧐 and Knowledge 🤔 plus many 🏎️ Car Show Events held on the 😍 Beautiful Estate Grounds. 🌳🪻
The Staff were Friendly and Knowledgeable.👍 Highly Recommend The Auto Museum and it's many Car Show Events! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🏎️"

Konstantinos Tziallas

"Beautiful mansion to keep this cars in. The property is well maintained and at the time of my visit there was an active car show happening which was a bonus!

It is highly recommended to come visit this museum if you have not been already."

Christopher Benton

"A really fun hidden gem in Jamaica Plane. Definitely worth checking out on a sunny day and then exploring the surrounding park. Also check out their 2025 Lawn Event schedule, it's the closest thing Boston has to Cars and Coffee ☕🚘"

Ross Hurlock

What People Like

Historic car collection
Vibrant car shows
Beautiful estate grounds

What People Dislike

Limited exhibit information
Small museum size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Larz Anderson Auto Museum is located in Brookline, Massachusetts, on the grounds of Larz Anderson Park. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site, especially during events. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop near the park. Many visitors find it convenient to drive, especially if attending a car show.Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at the museum, particularly on the expansive grounds of Larz Anderson Park. During popular car shows and events, parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.Reddit

While the museum is in Brookline, public transport options are available. Several MBTA bus lines run near Larz Anderson Park. It's advisable to check the MBTA website for the most current routes and schedules that best suit your travel plans.

Larz Anderson Park is a well-known landmark in Brookline. The museum is situated within the park, making it a central point of interest. GPS navigation systems will easily guide you to the park's general location.

For major car shows, consider arriving early to secure parking. Some attendees opt for ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles. Public transport is also an option, though it might involve a walk from the nearest stops.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, and it's always best to check the official Larz Anderson Auto Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing. Special events may have different admission costs or be included with membership.Reddit

For regular museum visits, tickets are typically available at the door. However, for special events like car shows or 'Tutto Italiano,' it's wise to check if advance ticket purchase is recommended or required, as these events can be very popular.Reddit

Museum hours can vary seasonally and are subject to change, especially for events. It's highly recommended to consult the official Larz Anderson Auto Museum website for their current operating hours before planning your visit.

Information on discounts, such as for seniors, students, or children, is usually available on the museum's official website. Members often receive free or discounted admission to regular exhibits and special events.Reddit

Absolutely! Car shows at Larz Anderson Auto Museum are open to everyone, whether you're a car owner or an enthusiast. The events are a great opportunity to admire a wide range of vehicles and soak in the automotive atmosphere.Reddit

🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience

The museum boasts the oldest collection of motorcars in the U.S., featuring vehicles from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Depending on current exhibits and events, you might also see modern sports cars and exotics.InstagramReddit

Yes, the museum often hosts special exhibits and has rotating collections that showcase different eras or types of automobiles. These can add an extra layer of interest to your visit.Reddit

The museum and its grounds offer excellent photography opportunities. The historic carriage house provides a unique backdrop for vintage cars, and the park grounds are picturesque, especially during car shows.Reddit

The museum is described as a 'small museum' by visitors, but it's packed with significant automotive history. The collection is housed within the historic Anderson Carriage House, and events expand onto the surrounding park grounds.Reddit

Information on guided tours is best found on the museum's official website. Staff are often knowledgeable and available to answer questions, especially during less crowded times or special events.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, the museum itself may not have extensive dining facilities. However, during special events and car shows, food vendors are often present, offering a variety of options. It's also a great opportunity to explore nearby dining in Brookline or Jamaica Plain.Reddit

Larz Anderson Park is a public park, and picnicking is generally permitted. You can bring your own food and enjoy it on the grounds before or after your museum visit, especially on a nice day.Instagram

The museum is located near Jamaica Plain and Brookline, both of which offer a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. You can find everything from casual bites to more upscale dining experiences in these neighborhoods.

During major car shows and events, food trucks and vendors are frequently on-site, providing convenient food and drink options for attendees. This is a common feature of 'Cars and Coffee' and other lawn events.Reddit

Yes, Larz Anderson Park is an ideal spot for a picnic. There are ample green spaces and scenic views, making it a pleasant experience to enjoy your own packed meal.

📸 📸 Photography

The historic Anderson Carriage House provides a stunning backdrop for vintage cars. The surrounding park grounds offer scenic views, and during car shows, the sheer variety of vehicles presents endless photographic opportunities.InstagramReddit

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, it's always a good idea to check with museum staff if you plan on using tripods or professional equipment, especially during events.

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses will offer the most flexibility for capturing details and different perspectives. However, modern smartphones are also capable of taking excellent photos, especially in good lighting.TikTok

Yes, there are nice views of the Boston skyline from Larz Anderson Park, which can be even more impressive after dark when the city lights are on.Instagram

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light that enhances the aesthetics of the cars and the historic buildings. Midday can be harsh, but events often provide dynamic action shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Larz Anderson Auto Museum can be a fun outing for families, especially on a sunny day when you can explore the surrounding park. While the museum itself is a collection of cars, the expansive Larz Anderson Park offers plenty of space for kids to run around, play, and enjoy the outdoors.Instagram Consider visiting during a car show event, as the visual spectacle of many different cars can be captivating for children.

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the park grounds, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable family experience. The combination of a unique indoor exhibit and a large outdoor recreational area makes it a well-rounded destination. Check the museum's event schedule for family-friendly activities or themed shows that might be particularly engaging for younger visitors.

🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Collectors

For car enthusiasts, the Larz Anderson Auto Museum is a must-visit. Its status as the oldest car collection in the U.S., housed in a historic carriage house, offers a deep dive into automotive history. The chance to see rare and vintage vehicles up close is unparalleled.TikTokInstagram

Don't miss the frequent car shows and 'Cars and Coffee' events held on the museum grounds. These events are prime opportunities to see a diverse range of modern exotics, classics, and unique builds, and to connect with the local car community. Becoming a museum member is highly recommended for regular access to these popular gatherings.Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find the Larz Anderson Auto Museum and its grounds to be a rich source of visual content. The historic Anderson Carriage House provides a stunning, classic backdrop for photographing vintage automobiles. The architectural details of the building itself are also noteworthy.TikTok

During car shows and events, the sheer variety of vehicles offers endless opportunities for dynamic shots. Capture the sleek lines of sports cars, the imposing presence of classic sedans, or the intricate details of custom builds. The surrounding park also offers scenic vistas, including views of the Boston skyline, perfect for landscape or urban photography.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Collection

The Larz Anderson Auto Museum is home to the oldest collection of motorcars in the United States, a testament to the passion of Larz Anderson and his wife, Isabel Weld Perkins. Their automotive journey began in 1899 with their first 'horseless carriage,' and over time, they amassed an impressive collection of thirty-two new motorcars. This curated selection forms the core of the museum's exhibits, offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of automotive design and technology from the late 19th century through the early 20th century.TikTokInstagram

The vehicles are displayed within the Anderson Carriage House, a magnificent chateau-style Victorian structure that itself is a piece of history. The museum's collection isn't just about quantity; it's about the significance and rarity of the automobiles. Visitors can expect to see iconic models that represent pivotal moments in automotive engineering and style. Depending on current exhibitions, the museum also occasionally features more modern sports cars, adding a contemporary contrast to its historical core.Reddit

Beyond the permanent collection, the museum is known for its special exhibitions and themed events. These often highlight specific marques, eras, or automotive subcultures, providing fresh perspectives and drawing enthusiasts from far and wide. The combination of a historically rich permanent collection and dynamic temporary exhibits makes each visit potentially unique and exciting for car lovers.Reddit

Events and Community Engagement

One of the most vibrant aspects of the Larz Anderson Auto Museum is its active event calendar. The museum frequently hosts lawn events and car shows on its picturesque estate grounds, transforming the park into a hub for automotive enthusiasts. These events are a major draw, attracting a diverse range of vehicles, from classic American cruisers to sleek European sports cars and rare Japanese models.Instagram+1

Popular recurring events include 'Cars and Coffee' gatherings, which are a staple for car culture in the Boston area. These informal meetups allow owners to showcase their vehicles, share stories, and connect with fellow car aficionados. The museum also hosts more specialized events like 'Tutto Italiano,' celebrating Italian automotive artistry, and 'Miata Day,' catering to specific car communities.InstagramReddit These events are not just for car owners; they offer a fantastic opportunity for anyone to admire a wide array of vehicles and experience the passion of the automotive community.Reddit

Community engagement is key to the museum's success. By becoming a member of the Larz Anderson Auto Museum, visitors can gain access to these exclusive lawn events and support the preservation of automotive history. The museum actively encourages participation, making it a dynamic and engaging destination for both seasoned collectors and casual admirers alike.Reddit

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