The Getty Center Museum: A Must-Visit in Los Angeles

For those unfamiliar, Jean Paul Getty was a renowned 20th-century entrepreneur and art collector who, with his immense wealth and cultural knowledge, created an exceptional collection: the Getty Center Museum in Los Angeles.

The origins of the museum trace back to 1974 when Getty decided to build a replica of the Villa of the Papyri at the Herculaneum archaeological site on his vast Malibu property, named the Getty Villa. However, it was not until 1982, following a significant inheritance, that he transformed it into a true museum, enriching it with numerous artifacts, including authentic medieval illuminated manuscripts.

After expanding his collection, the Getty Museum was relocated to the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, while the Malibu villa was closed to the public for a period and only reopened in 2006, after significant modernization and renovation efforts. That is why today the museum includes two distinct locations: the Malibu Center, dedicated to Greek and Roman art and culture, and the Los Angeles Center, famous for its avant-garde architecture and art collections that span from prehistory to the contemporary period, attracting nearly two million visitors each year.

GETTY CENTER: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, USA

How to Get to the Getty Center

Exploring alternative transportation methods to reach the Getty Center can enhance your visit experience. Opt for biking, taking a taxi, or using public transportation instead of driving.

Biking
Cyclists can enjoy complimentary parking and find bike racks conveniently located at the entry level near the elevators within the parking structure.

Taxi Services and Rideshares (Uber/Lyft)
For those preferring taxi services, there is a designated taxi stand at level P1 of the parking structure. For UBER and LYFT users, pick-up and drop-off are available in a specially designated area just outside the parking structure.

Public Transportation
Metro bus line 761 allows for easy access by stopping right at the entrance of the Getty Center, at the intersection of Getty Center Drive and Sepulveda Boulevard. For detailed route information, contact the Metro (Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority) at (323) GO-METRO (323-466-3876) or use the online Metro Trip Planner.

Main Activities at the Getty Center Museum

The museum offers visitors a range of truly engaging activities. The first experience upon arriving is to ride the funicular (enjoying a spectacular view) up the hill where the institution is located, home to an impressive collection of artworks set in a naturally enchanting context.

In addition to the permanent collection, there are always temporary exhibitions that regularly change, exploring different works or historical periods (often thematic or avant-garde contemporary art installations). Moreover, interactive guided tours are available for an even more immersive visit, and there are numerous activities specifically designed for children. Families visiting will benefit from programs that help children understand the displayed artworks in a fun and engaging way, and there are art workshops tailored for them.

In short, at the Getty Center you can experience a truly immersive visit, given that beyond its vast collection, there are exhibitions, activities, tours, an exceptional environment, and, not least, four stunning gardens and terraces that are works of art themselves, blending culture with nature.

Key Artworks on Display

At the Getty Museum, visitors will find extremely important artworks, including world-renowned pieces spanning from ancient times to the contemporary period, featuring works also from Italy and Europe. Notable among the ancient Greek and Roman era pieces are the sensual Aphrodite of Capua, a Greek statue of Artemis, and a Roman replica of the famous Athena Lemnia by Phidias. Moving to Renaissance paintings, the collection includes the well-known Portrait of Francis I by Jean Clouet, showcasing his technical mastery, alongside works by Sandro Botticelli (Madonna and Child) and Domenico Ghirlandaio (Portrait of Giovanna Tornabuoni).

GETTY CENTER - PHOTO GALLERY 

Among the modern works shine Vincent Van Gogh’s Irises and the Sleeping Ariadne by surrealist Giorgio De Chirico. But it is in the contemporary period that the museum really shows its breadth. Visitors can admire the famous Standing Woman by Alberto Giacometti, the Swiss artist known for his slender sculptures, conceptual works by Joseph Kosuth, the renowned Double America by Jasper Johns (which reinterprets the national flag) as well as numerous works by the popular artist Andy Warhol.

Architecture and Garden

The peace and tranquility offered by the museum’s open spaces are unmatched. Visitors can explore four gardens, including the Cactus Garden, and a terrace displaying outdoor sculptures where they can relax and appreciate the unique blend of architecture and nature offered by this extraordinary facility.

The building, designed by architect Richard Meier in modernist style, is characterized by clean lines, light materials, and a great emphasis on space and light. The use of natural light (through skylights and open spaces) enhances the integration between the interior and exterior: a true masterpiece.

Services Offered by the Getty Museum

Within the exceptional setting of the Santa Monica Mountains, take a refreshing break after your visit at the museum’s variety of dining options. Be sure to try the Garden Tea, the Garden Terrace Cafe, the Museum Courtyard Coffee Cart, and the Grove Coffee Cart.

For those who prefer, picnicking in the park is also allowed! Before leaving the Getty, be sure to visit the Store to purchase souvenirs or simply browse through books, art-inspired jewelry, and all the exclusive items the shop has to offer.

Tickets and Reservations

The museum offers parking, with fees starting at 20 USD for both cars and motorcycles, dropping to 15 USD after 3:00 PM, and just 10 USD after 6:00 PM. Visiting the Getty is completely free: truly great news. Online booking might not be required, but it's always best to check on the institution’s official website or call (310) 440-7300.

Regarding opening hours and days, the Getty is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours varying but typically from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

The Getty Guide is available on the App Store and Google Play.
Audio tours highlighting key features at both sites - Center and Villa - are available in English and the following languages:

• Brazilian Portuguese - French - German - Italian - Spanish Japanese - Korean - Mandarin Chinese - Russian

TOP TOURS IN LOS ANGELES