(Los Angeles, CA) - I was in L.A. for 2 days recently and unexpectedly spent 5 hours of the trip at the Getty Center. A sprawling complex dedicated to visual arts, the center is situated atop a hill with spectacular views from every side. The Getty Trust houses four programs at the center: the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Getty Research Institute, the Getty Conservation Institute and the Getty Foundation. I only spent time at the museum or could have quite possible spent my entire trip there.
The Getty Museum itself is contained in 5 two story building, some of which are connected by sky-walks. I was able to tackle 2 1/2 buildings before breaking for lunch. Then, I finished the remaining buildings as the sun finally broke through the fog and opened up the complete views of the surrounding hillsides and valleys.
Like most major museums, the Getty features works from the ancient Mediterranean world, Asia, Africa, the rest of Europe and all the way through the Contemporary Art of the United States. The final building also housed a new exhibit entitled Eyewitness Views: Making History in Eighteenth-Century Europe featuring works that recorded memorable moments throughout Europe.
Free to enter, the only cost you can expect besides your meals and gift shop purchases is for parking which was $15. From there you take a 5 minute tram ride up the side of the mountain to the gorgeous entrance to the center which was designed by architect Richard Meier. The center has plenty of volunteers to get you going and there's also a short film you can watch upon entering that gives a brief history. The center features several gardens and fountains and the Central Garden by artist Robert Irwin is an evolving work of art that actually was a welcomed change of pace from the galleries and nice spot to relax and recharge. Due to its always changing landscape, Irwin's statement "Always changing, never twice the same" is carved into the plaza floor, reminding visitors of the ever-changing nature of this living work of art. There is plenty of outdoor seating at the center, food carts, a cafe and a restaurant to help you enjoy your visit whether it's quick or lengthy like mine.
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I'd advise getting there early like I did to both avoid the parking traffic and possibly the heat, but also to give yourself plenty of time to tour the complex. Also, if you are able to get through the complex with additional time, the Getty Villa is a separate tour you can take and is located at the easterly end of the Malibu coast in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles.
With no shortage of beauty and history, the Getty Center is a stop I highly recommend if you are traveling to or near the Los Angeles area. See more photos on Instagram at @Reviews937!
~ safe travels ~
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