The Getty Center

Los Angeles, California

200 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049

I am always on the hunt for a new adventure, and I love visiting new places. I’ll be the first to admit, visiting a museum, isn’t usually high on my must do list. I was pleasantly surprised by The Getty Center, specifically the J.Paul Getty Museum and Gardens. This stunning destination is a beautiful showcase of architecture and design.

The Getty Museum, not to be confused with the Getty Villa, sits atop the Santa Monica Mountains in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles. Entrance to the Getty Museum and Gardens is completely free, however you will have to pay $15 to park. If you are looking to save some cash, arrive after 3PM. Parking is only $10 after that time. Please note the Getty Museum is closed on Mondays.

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After parking you can ride the electric tram to the top where the Getty Center is located. Once you reach the museum, you will be greeted with the modern architecture of Richard Meier. The architecture is as much of a visual masterpiece as some of the artwork inside.

I was most excited about visiting the Getty Center to see the gardens and I was not disappointed. I could have spent all day relaxing and perusing the gardens alone! The central garden, designed by Robert Irwin, is comprised of over 500 different types of plants. It also contains a waterfall as well as a floating azalea maze. The bougainvillea arbors are gorgeous too! 

Irvine called the garden “a sculpture in the form of a garden aspiring to be art.”

Inside the museum is an extensive art collection comprised of numerous sculptures, paintings and decorative arts. There are four main pavilions each with different types of art. You can expect a mix of Renaissance, Baroque, Impressionist and religious art.  Of particular interest to photographers, is the Center for Photographs, which showcases the history of photographic arts. It was an interesting exhibit with many different types of photography for viewing. I also enjoyed the sculptures. 

 Messerschmidt, The Vexed Man

 

 Medusa – Vincenzo Gemito

If you need a break from all the stunning art and some fresh air, there is also a Cactus Garden on the south promontory. You can see the best views of LA from this spot. The many terraces offer seriously stunning views from the pacific ocean to downtown LA and Century City. Feel free to bring your own picnic for a lunch in the garden, or on one of the beautiful terraces. There are also a cafes and a restaurant if you would like to purchase food, drinks or snacks.

 

Delusions of Grandeur, Bronze – 1967 by Rene Magritte

 

Overall, visiting The Getty Center, was a great way to spend an afternoon, even if you aren’t the biggest art connoisseur. I had a great time, and it has peaked my interest in visiting other museums. I would recommend having at the very least 3 hours to explore this gorgeous place and the beautiful gardens!

Irises- 1889 Vincent Van Gogh