Pros: Interesting history & architecture with two small floors of both modern & antique automobiles. Cons: Smug young man at entrance desk who did not acknowledge us on entry or exit. Obviously does not care or value his job. read more

I always have a special time at events here. Beautiful grounds, spectacular vehicles, and an overall happy mood and attitude from folks visiting. Car porn! This visit was for a cars and coffee lawn event. read more

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Socialite Isabel Weld Perkins and her husband Larz Anderson purchased their first motorcar in 1899 and continued to purchase a new motorcar almost every year through Isabel's passing in 1948. As their collection grew, most of their retired vehicles were stored in the Carriage House on their estate in Brookline. In 1927, the Anderson family opened their collection for tours and, upon Isabel's death in 1948, she bequeathed her estate and automobiles to the town of Brookline with the stipulation that both be entrusted to a non-profit organization for the public. Today, the Larz Anderson Auto Museum features rotating exhibits on the ground floor and select vehicles from the museum's permanent collection on the lower level. It's a small collection, with only about 10-12 vehicles on loan from others on display in the rotating exhibits and 16 vehicles (4 of which still run and drive) from permanent collection on display at any given time. At the time of this review in September 2024, the current rotating exhibit features several post-World War II vehicles from the US and Europe, along with a small display of print and television advertising campaigns. Given the size of the museum, you can easily view the collection without rushing in about an hour. The museum hosts events on its vast lawn during the spring, summer and fall, including Cars & Coffee Boston gatherings that are open to all makes and models and other themed events that cater to specific genres of automobiles and motorcycles, including European, American, custom, Japanese tuner, alternative fuels, trucks, hot rods, and motorcycles. The museum also hosts occasional track days at Palmer Motorsports Park. Check the museum's website (https://www.larzanderson.org/) for more information. PRO TIP: The museum and its lawn are also available for rent to host private events, such as weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, birthday parties, and corporate team building events with indoor capacity of 150 for a standing cocktail style reception or up to 100 for a formal seated dinner. read more

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i really enjoyed seeing all of the cool poster cars but the guy working at the front desk didn't acknowledge my family or i on the way in or out at all so all though the cars were super cool the environment didn't feel very inviting. awesome experience but don't think i'd visit again! read more

Wow I hope you have the opportunity to visit this museum . It's accessible through Larz Anderson Park . It's clearly labeled so you can't miss it . The hours are Tuesday - Sunday 10:00am - 3:00 pm . You don't need to purchase tickets in advance . You can park in the parking lot of the park and just walk down to the museum . read more

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The disabled individuals we serve at Beaverbrook STEP in Belmont were treated with kindness, respect, & patience. They loved the eclectic retro antique cars . A warm, classy, & inventive way to visit. read more

Hidden treasures indeed, this car museum began as the personal collection of Larz Anderson and his wife Isabel Weld Perkins soon after they married. It started in 1899 with the purchase of a Winton Motor Company Carriage Company "horseless carriage" and continued through more vehicles and opened to the public in 1927. I arrived here the day of an outdoor car show with Saabs and Volvos which was a great bonus - Swedish Car Day. With that, the museum was a little busy but never got too crowded. The cars are approachable and highly photographable but you can't get too close or the alarm warns you to stay back. Many of the original Anderson vehicles remain but the collection has expanded to include other more modern cars including a 1966 Ferrari 500 coupe, 1955 Alfa Romeo, 1969 Bizzarrini 5300 GT and a number of vintage bicycles and motorcycles. It is all quite fantastic. I've put all my photos from the visit into this Dropbox: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qs9fnfv2ykqm861/AAAexjgDtnmZZR0dYLRErV2Ga?dl=0 [Round number review 18600 overall - 1182 in Massachusetts - 2122 of 2022.] read more

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Larz Anderson Auto Museum is the perfect unique venue - just out of the way but still conveniently located, a gorgeous park on the grounds, something to entertain your guests, and an incredible staff waiting to help. This was our dream venue and it was the absolute perfect choice. Dress it up or down, it will look fantastic any way. Your guests will be thrilled to see the exhibits and experience history! Plus what a perfect place to come back for anniversaries. read more

I have been wanting to visit this museum for many years, and finally went today. I love cars and appreciate all things car-related. We drove an hour to visit the museum and paid $31 for 3 of us to enter. I believe we saw about 17 cars in the museum. Some were tucked way in the back and were difficult to really see. There was one room that had maybe 10 motorcycles, which is probably exciting if you are into bikes, but unfortunately that's not me. Ultimately, I truly felt like the entry price was just a bit too steep for what we were able to actually see. It's probably much more worth the price of admission if there is some type of event happening on the lawn, with more cars. read more

The perfect place for a date, car enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates fine motors. The cars are all vintage, on loan, and the museum regularly changes its cars on display which is so great! During the summertime they even host their Cars & Coffee lawn events, so there are always year round activities for you to enjoy. read more

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Date spot! Not your first date though. Fun, not crowded, interesting. As long as you're with someone great to chat with, you'll find it interesting, even if you're not a car enthusiast. Finding out about early electric cars that mimic carriages. So fun. And the park is right there for a walk after You can get free tickets through the Boston library too! read more

Great Museum!!! Fabulous cars.. must see. Go alone or with friends and family. Become a member... it's with it.

I met the love of my life here tonight. He's beautiful, gorgeous brown skin, perfect curves, glows in the right light. I'll bet he rides like a dream, with just enough oomph when you need it. Ohhh yeah, mmm. I call him baby, but to the rest of the world he's known as a Maserati Ghibli Spyder. I'll never see another one like him in my lifetime. Tis a sad truth, I know. He's been waiting for me for years, since 1966, in fact. With his other suave, powerful Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and fellow Maserati cousins. There's only a few of them left, but the ones there will make you positively swoon. Beneath the rustic wood floors, his grandfathers sit at attention. LBJ's Continental beside its ancestors. Remember the steamy scene in Titantic with the hand print sliding down the window? One of those cars is at the bottom of the sea. The other, the only one on land, is parked at this grand carriage house - toilet, tufted seats and all. A visit here transports you away from the city bustle. The lawns are verdant, with glorious views of the land below. But from this castle, it feels like you're in another kingdom entirely. While it may not warrant a dedicated perusal unless you're a serious auto buff, its a splendid place for any occasion. read more

Larz Anderson Auto Museum - Museums Near Me - Brookline, Massachusetts

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Outstanding place. Beautiful cars, great music. A very enjoyable visit. The building and grounds are very well kept. Great non stop events. read more

Larz Anderson Auto Museum - Museums Near Me - Brookline, Massachusetts

Russ & I got a personal tour of the Larz Anderson Auto Museum when investigating Wedding Venues. I had already done tons & tons of research and let me tell you, in Boston, it's very hard to find the following things in a wedding venue. 1.) A spacious, cool venue where you can enjoy an outdoor wedding 2.) A unique location that has a bit of personality or flair -- that's not too.... tucked in. 3.) A location where you can have an Open Bar (without a fine) 3.) A location without a package deal (one flat rate and you have to get their cake, their caterer, etc -- these usually cost thousands of dollars) 5.) A location that is available only 9 months in advance 6.) A location that overlooks the city but also has ample parking and private bathrooms. 7.) A place where you can have your wedding & reception all in the same place. Larz Anderson Auto Museum was a perfect choice for Russ & l. The Museum is castle-like on the outside, and lodge-like on the inside with its almond colored wood, lofty ceilings, dusty/old but unique decor. It's filled with beautiful, beautiful automobiles. There is no need to "dress up" the space with too much bridal flare since the area is already filled with beautiful cars to enjoy. They also have a caterer's kitchen which means that your caterers will have a nice place to get your meal ready for your guests before arrival. You get to choose from 15 pre-approved caterers (a really good list, mind you) and pick your own cake vendor. We're going to have our wedding on the hill at Larz Anderson, then have our guests enjoy a cocktail hour and tour of the Larz Anderson Museum. Then they will go outside to the tent for dinner & dancing. The cost to rent the venue is $4400 from 6pm-12pm -- nothing else is included, but for Boston, it's a reasonable price. That way you can negotiate with your vendors and decide how expensive you want all the extras to be. The max amount of people inside the museum is 250 Standing Cocktails and 125 sitting. In the event of rain, they sit your guests inside the museum and open the doors so you can see the rain falling. The Museum is a little long and skinny, but the ceilings are incredibly tall. The long/skinny aspects is one of the main reasons we decided to have the wedding outside. However, the wedding would be great for a smaller group that needs less tables. We had a weird thing happen with the wedding planner that gave us the tour of the museum. After we signed the contract, we found out that she would no longer be working at the museum. We thought she was helpful, but eh, these things happen, right? She seemed kinda high maintenance, but was very nice. The new wedding planner at the museum has been helpful with answering questions but has been mostly hands-off (which isn't a problem for me at all, actually I kind of prefer it.) If you're the kind of bride who needs someone more hands-on -- this venue won't be the place to you -- if you don't like to be bothered with high-maintenance planners, then this venue is great, I just quickly give a call or email and Karen answers my questions quickly. No muss, no fuss. read more

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An absolute must-visit for local or visiting car nerds. The museum isn't massive, but the ten or so stunning cars on the first floor and the ten or so antique (and I mean, absolutely "beginning of commercial car sales" antique) on the lower floor are a wonder to behold and a fine use of the hour or so it'll take you to walk through it. Added bonus - the collection of nicely preserved decades-old car magazines for sale in the gift shop. It's what to get for the rich guy driving the Alfa that has everything. read more

A lovely hidden gem in Brookline. A huge collection of amazingly kept, beautiful cars. Anyone would enjoy this place, car expert or not. The building (an old stable) has wonderful charm, the staff is great, and it only takes about an hour to see everything. My two tips for you: Don't miss the collection in the basement! Go early on a Sunday, you'll have the whole place to yourself. read more

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This museum rocks!! I am a car enthusiast and I truly appreciate the display of old and rare vehicles that make for a great exhibit. When I'm there, I feel like a little kid in a candy store. That's the best way I can describe the euphoria that hits me when I'm at this museum. read more

Certain things turn me on to a point of pleasurable paralysis. I become frozen with awe. Old European cars are one of these things. Paris in another one. So is Zurich....and treehouses. Anyway. I don't give a shit about gucci jeans and Rolexes. I don't care about who does your hair or the monogram on your glorified purse. I care about engineering. Style. Vintage cool. Innately fabulous shit. So sauntering in to this museum and stumbling upon the same model Ferrari Steve McQueen featured in the Thomas Crown Affair-a 1967 275 GTB/4- made me gasp with awe. The museum did a quality job showcasing a car which I doubt a fair amount of Boston-ites even knew they had in their fine city. Plus, I'm shamelessly obsessed with McQueen. And the 60s. So it was a triumvirate shot of hedonism for me. There were placards on the wall, old periodicals, hood ornaments, and some old American cars I don't give a shit about. The space was majestically carved out with optimal ceiling height to give the cars a proportional reign over their domain. I only cared about the Ferrari. The grounds of the museum itself channeled a very snow-globe-esque vibe: ensconced upon a hill as if it were plopped and framed there simply to be gazed and marveled at. Trees,a pond, well-manicured lawn. An estate it tip top order. Kind and presentable staff. Plenty of glass cases showcasing trinkets, old school original Road and Track magazines, brochures and actual small scale models. Really rad if you like fabulous old autos. read more

Larz Anderson Auto Museum - Fukin' Fabulous Ferrari - Museums Near Me - Brookline, Massachusetts

Not going to lie I went to the Newport museum and loved it and was looking for other car museums close by, this was a waste of money, some historic cars but a lot of repetitive things, and over priced for how small the building actually is read more

There are three reasons to visit this place, the collection of cars on permanent display from the Anderson family collection, 14 from the early 1900's preserved in their original condition, plus another dozen or so significant cars on the main level in a display that changes annually to keep the visitor experience fresh and finally the amazing 1888 state of the art stable/carriage house in which they are displayed. Placards provide detailed information about each car and the staff is available to answer any additional questions you might have about the cars or the building. On most Sundays (weather permitting) from May to October there are "lawn events" where people bring their own classic cars to themed shows and spectator admission includes entry to the museum, so an overall bargain. WARNING: to avoid disappointment ALWAYS check the museum website when planning a visit because they are occasionally closed to the public to host corporate or social events (apparently the Andersons left the cars and carriage house but no endowment to pay operating expenses). read more

I have been going to the Museum's lawn events for years! Always a good time... I only wish parking was easier! They have shows for muscle cars, Corvettes, German cars, etc. And though not my cup of tea, the Museum has been adding shows for "alternate energy" vehicles and other more modern cars, but that just goes to show they are interested in catering to ALL car fans! The best show they hold BY FAR is what I like to call, simply, Italian Car Day. It gets bigger every year, and often is the only time we get to see very rare Italian iron (and aluminum!) in this area. The museum itself has rotating displays. There is not a lot of room for cars upstairs, but don't forget to look downstairs as well, where the REALLY old stuff tends to sit. The building is an antique carriage house, and you can still see where the horse stalls were. So if you love cars, and need a "fix", take a look at their lawn event schedule and mark down your calendar! read more

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This is an amazing Museum that was once upon a time a barn from the Larz Anderson Estate from the late eighteen hundreds. It housed some early 20th century vehicles and even bicycles which were pretty amazing considering I was in awe of seeing the evolution of the automobile from the early stages of the Horseless Carriage. What's really interesting comparison is they also show of contemporary vehicles from well-known Brands like BMW. This museum is known for their lawn shows and I think it's really good opportunity for people to gather with common interests in the automobile field. What's really cool about this museum is that it also can be rented out for special occasions and private functions. I went to my very first Annual White Lightning ball which is hosted by the Greater Boston Vintage Society and we had a 1930s Casino theme. What really made this special was the museum created the authenticity of the time. And it's almost as if you're entering a time warp and you really feel like you're part of that social Society regardless of your nationality or race. I really love the fact that this is space can host these great social gatherings. It only cost a general admission of $10 to get into the museum and I think that if you were a big fan of cars, please do give it a visit because it is something special especially if you live in the Boston area. I've been here for over 15 years and I've never set foot on this until recently. Take it for me ... Well worth it. read more

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This museum was featured on a list that my university put together called "The Best Museums You Haven't Been To," and it was totally sweet! The only tricky part was finding it from Google Maps directions. The directions on the website are much better, but sadly I couldn't access them from my boyfriend's house because their Flash-based website is not compatible with Linux, boo! (Um... we're nerds.) Once you actually get there, you find yourself at Larz Anderson Park, which is a fairly nice little grassy area with a pond, and ducks, and kids playing. The museum is housed in the former carriage house of the Anderson estate. The Andersons were this insanely wealthy couple that became infatuated with cars around the turn of the century, so they bought a whole ton of them. (To give you an idea of how wealthy they were, Mrs. Anderson inherited about $17 million at the age of five, which translates to over a billion of today's dollars.) The cars from the original Anderson estate are unrestored, weathered, and a little beat up, but still look awesome. Other vehicles belong to private owners in New England who loan them out for museum exhibits. Some highlights included: 1) a very early model of automobile that hadn't advanced as far as a "roof" or "steering wheel" -- you sat on two bench seats facing each other and the driver steered with some kind of lever 2) a steam-powered car 3) an old school "limo" that contained all the comforts of home for long trips... including a TOILET! 4) an antique car enthusiast tooling around in his Bugatti outside They're in the middle of changing exhibits right now, so some things were out of place or unlabeled, but it was a cool way to pass an hour on a fall afternoon. And don't miss the downstairs, which has more penny-farthing bicycles than you ever dreamed of! read more

Phenomena: A Bless by Bless Charity Ball brought me to the Larz Anderson Auto Museum for an evening of music, fashion, food and of course, all the rum and wine I could drink, in honor of supporting two very worthy causes: the Boston Jimmy Fund Charity and Mother Of Peace Aids Orphanage in Zimbabwe. My first glimpse of the venue was rain-soaked and dark, but i could make out a castle atop a hill, beautiful and commanding on the skyline. The interior was a cavernous three floors, lined with balconies and full of bad-ass vintage and classic cars. I'll take the black caddy on the ground floor with the suicide doors, please. The details included exposed brick and wood beams, stone archways and alcoves filled with race cars, motorcycles and amazing milestones of the automotive world. An interesting venue, for large-scale parties and weddings alike...especially for those looking for a unique experience. The only complaint: no air conditioning! On one of the most balmy nights of the year, everyone at the ball was dressed in black tie and sweating their butts off! We are glistening in all the photos! Aside from the temperature, the museum is definitely a cool spot that I'm glad I got the chance to check out. read more

The oldest automotive museum in the USA is not really very large, it's a little dark inside and doesn't really feature very many "sexy" cars, but it's a rare gem for anyone truly obsessed with antique automobiles. Larz Anderson was a wealthy diplomat at the turn of the century. He and his wife developed a fascination for the automobile and began to purchase at least one new machine per year from about 1899 thru the early 30's. They also did a funny thing; they never sold any of them. When a car was retired, they just parked it in the carriage house. Today, those cars are preserved in their original, unrestored state and are on display to the public. In most cases they are no longer shiny and the upholstery is a little shabby, but the focus is on preservation for posterity rather than refurbishment for maximum flashiness. Many, however, are in remarkably pristine condition. It's a little dark in the museum because light is hard on these fragile machines. Flash photography is forbidden for the same reason. But what grand old automobiles they are! An eight-foot-tall SGV limousine which was the Anderson's favorite for long range travel. The passenger seat converted to a bed and underneath one of the jumpseats was a functional toilet! There's a spidery Winton race car that the driver sat "on" rather than "in"... an impressive Renault victoria, a sporty Bugatti and a rather plain-Jane Citroen. And about three dozen others. Complimenting the display is a collection of lamps, horns and period accessories... and the occasional "guest vehicle" to give a little variety to the display. The 1880's carriage house in which the collection is displayed is fascinating in it's own right. The Anderson horses, frankly, probably lived better that you or I. This isn't a museum for everybody. If you really aren't a fan of early cars, you likely will be bored. If you are a fan, however, you will never forget it. read more

Definitely a hidden gem, not alot of people know about this place due to it being in the remote side of brookline. but would highly recommend coming to visit the museum or even attend one of the many lawn events on sat/sun. Also if you are one to come to more than one lawn event during the course of the year, look into the museum annual membership $30 for single/$50 for family, definitely worth it and it pays off. Great bunch of people who work at the museum. also great scenery that surrounds the museum as it is a park p.s. also ignore "M M.s" review because it's obsolete read more

Disclaimer - I'm a total car nut, so this type of a place will always hit my personal bullseye. I really like the Larz Anderson Auto Museum for the nice grounds, stately architecture, interesting history and the cool cars. And their displays rotate on an annual basis. In the Summer and Fall, there are frequent Lawn Events held on Sundays. Themed gatherings, covering everything from Covettes to bicycles, so there is something for almost everyone. This weekend they are hosting VW Day on Sunday. The guides are helpful and the Museum goes out of its way to be accessible and make everyone feel welcome. And if you aren't a car nut, there is a beautiful park just over the hill from the museum with beautiful views of downtown Boston. Definitely worth the visit. read more

Attended a second event at this lovely venue; last time was 3 years ago. Each time, I learn a little more: this was the former carriage-house for the family, and the mansion was destroyed years ago (fell into disrepair). The venue is adequate for microphoned events, but it is difficult to hear un-mic'd speakers/singers (high ceilings). There is no particularly great place for a bar; in both back rooms, the line of incoming and outgoing guests gets clogged up. For catered events, food is prepped in the back, and passed by servers throughout the main floor only. Restrooms are few. The cars in this museum represent an important glimpse into history. I made a point of reading the placards, where they existed, but overall found them to be too few, and too dense, when present. There were several cars lacking any identification (including the Bugati?). The women's fashion models are better curated, but in many cases detract somewhat from the cars. And the majority of cars needed a little dusting. One of my very favorite discoveries, however, was the room of bicycles in the basement, including several high-wheeled models but also a "bone shaker" velocipede; so named because of the jarring ride provided by steel tires, circa 1865! read more

I went here for the Classic Japanese Auto Show. The cars were pretty cool and there was a good mix of people from import tuners to a handful of classic Japanese cars. The venue itself was gorgeous and admission to the event covers the incredible museum as well. Overall this is an awesome family friendly event to go to on a Sunday. Beware! The $1 cookies they sell are apparently $2? Says the man at the food tent. read more

7/26/2009 Last Sunday, we were at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum for the Ford Taurus event. When we went upstairs to get a few shots of the crowd from above, one of the organizer of the event asked if we wanted to something "really cool." He didn't have to ask twice! Our guide led us to a non-descrip door at the top of the stairs. The door opened in to a sun-drenched attic. It took our eyes a moment to adjust to the brightness. When they did... well, just click the link to see. Click on any of the images for a larger version. http://www.rainydaymagazine.com/RDM2009/Home/July/Week4/RDMHomeJul2609.htm#LAAM_Attic -------------------------------------------------- 7/19/2009 We try to go to as many of their lawn events as possible. There is always something interesting at all of them. The LAAM is really one of the hidden gems of Boston! Here is our coverage of the opening night of their new internal exhibit: http://www.rainydaymag... Click on any of the images for a larger version. Sincerely, RainyDayInterns read more

One of my favorite spots in the world. The Museum itself is a work of art. They simply don't make buildings like this anymore. The core collection of cars is one of the oldest in the world. The rotating exhibits are always interesting. Lawn Event season brings the finest cars in New England to the Great Lawn. Every Sunday is something different. When done at the Museum, the view of Boston from the top of the hill is not to be missed. read more

Beautiful property and a great varieties of antique cars! Love their display and the attitude toward preserving the vehicles the way they are without any touch ups! Photography was allowed so we took advantage of photographing all the beauties while there was just us in the museum! the experience was tranquil with 50s jazz music in the background. The facility was clean and well kept! I wouldn't suggest that this place is for small children though. The cars are off limits and we saw toddlers not being managed and charging toward the antiques. read more

Great car museum. I went on a Saturday morning for a Cars and Coffee event....so I also got into the museum for free. Small museum but it was great collection, the bottom floor had a bunch of Larz's personal cars. Super cool place and definitely worth a visit. I would highly advise attending a Cars and Coffee meet up too, you will see tons of other cool cars. read more

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A hidden spot in Boston for incredible and elegant events! Europeans in Boston enjoyed collaborating with Larz Anderson Auto Museum and Italian Consulate during the event La Dolce Vita. Tremendous staff! Elegant old castle! Beautiful exotic cars! Just the right place for any professional to enjoy this hidden gem. Europeans in Boston team. www.europeansin.com www.facebook.com/groups/europeansww/ read more

Happened upon the museum last week and tho not too large a collection (approx 50) the cars were very cool. Mr. & Mrs. Anderson's personal collection was the main focus downstairs.(1900-1930's) All of there cars were in the condition they were left in by the Anderson's - no restoration, only preservation. It was nice to learn the Anderson's were so into there cars they would name them and have the family crest/logo painted on them. There was an Indy car and a Formula 1 car and few beautifully restored American cars from the 50's and 60's on the main floor. Interesting to see the nameplates from the time it was the horse barn on some of the marble walls behind some of the vehicles. A few old saddles and horse tack and some really cool old bicycles also in the collection. If you have any appreciation for beautiful automobiles, go to the Larz Anderson Auto Museum. read more

Admission was included with the Cadillac car show. Great time with my son and nephew read more

Larz Anderson Auto Museum - Car show May 2014 - Museums Near Me - Brookline, Massachusetts

I thought I'd be clever make an interesting and witty wisecrack about the old car with a toilet in it, but it looks like many Yelpers beat me to the punch. Shucks. I got to go to the Auto Museum for my husband's work holiday party. It was really a nice venue for a party, aside from the room where we dined being a little cold for a chilly December evening. But other than that, I recommend this place for events. The cars are super fun to look at, especially the really old ones. Until April there's a display of Italian cars AND Italian clothes. So check it out. It's a cool old building too, so enjoy enjoy enjoy. read more

(Note that while Larz Anderson is a great museum, I'm primarily reviewing it as a wedding reception location.) The Larz Anderson Museum was a fantastic location for our wedding reception in early October. We had a reception for 145 guests at the museum that used both the interior of the museum and a tent on the front lawn. We held cocktail hour in the museum, dinner in the tent, and then invited everyone back inside for drinks, dessert, and dancing in the museum. The things I loved about this venue: -Unique and memorable venue - guests loved it (even non-car enthusiasts). The exhibits include cars, artwork, and fashion. -Exhibits have lots of bright colors so the rooms don't require extensive decorations. There's a gorgeous front door to the main hall that makes for a grand entrance when the wedding party is announced. -Main room has gleaming hardwood and is large enough for a band, dance floor, and some tables -At night the museum looks striking from the outside when lit up -Mini theater off the main room to show a slideshow -The Larz Anderson park down the hill is great for photos. -Karen was very helpful and responsive during pre-wedding planning -Sylvia is one of the few bargains in wedding planning. We hired her as a day-of coordinator at the reception. She worked with all of our vendors and helped the night run smoothly. Downsides: -In addition to the cost of renting the venue, you have to bring in everything. I wanted an event that was far more customized than a traditional wedding hall or hotel could offer - but I paid for it. Renting tables and chairs and bringing in all the vendors is expensive. -You must comply with Town of Brookline regulations. If you serve alcohol, you have to hire a police officer (though they are discreet - I never saw him/her). We did not end up using any propane heaters in the tent, but if we did, we were supposed to also hire a fireman. Also, Brookline doesn't allow for amplified music after 11pm so any band or DJ has to wrap up at that time. -You have to use an approved caterer. This wasn't a problem for us as Peppers was an approved caterer (and they're fantastic), but this might be an issue for others. Overall, I highly recommend this venue to any couple who is looking for a unique reception location. Our wedding guests loved it and my husband and I had a wonderful evening. read more

A must visit for any auto enthusiast. The different themed lawn events are perfect way to enjoy a casual Sunday morning. The estate is stunning and the museum is frequently updated with new exhibits. I would definitely recommend getting a membership as it is good for the whole year and give you admission to the museum. If you're able to pry yourself out of bed early enough I would definitely recommend attending the Cars and Coffee meet too! read more