The Getty Center
Los Angeles, United States · Museum
About The Getty Center
The Getty Center is a world-renowned cultural campus situated on a hilltop in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. Designed by architect Richard Meier, it is famous for its striking travertine stone buildings, tranquil landscaped grounds, and sweeping panoramic views of the city. Visitors come to admire a vast permanent collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning from the Middle Ages to the early twentieth century.
Don't miss
- Vincent van Gogh's iconic painting 'Irises' displayed in the museum's West Pavilion.
- The vibrant Central Garden designed by Robert Irwin, complete with a tree-lined walkway, waterfall, and floating azalea maze.
- The breathtaking modern travertine architecture paired with panoramic views stretching from the downtown skyline to the Pacific Ocean.
- The decorative arts galleries showcasing lavish European royal furnishings, tapestries, and ornate period rooms.
Plan your visit
Visit on a weekday morning to explore the art galleries before crowds arrive, or come in the late afternoon to catch golden hour over the gardens and city skyline.
Admission is free, but you must reserve a timed-entry ticket online in advance. Parking requires a paid fee per vehicle upon arrival.
From downtown Los Angeles, drive west via the I-10 and north on the I-405, or ride the Metro bus along Sepulveda Boulevard to the main entrance. From the entrance plaza, board the complimentary electric tram up to the hilltop campus.
Tips for visiting
- Wear comfortable walking shoes because the sprawling hilltop campus involves plenty of steps and outdoor walking.
- Download the free GettyGuide app on your smartphone before arriving to access audio tours and gallery maps.
- Bring a light jacket since hilltop breezes can make it significantly cooler than street-level Los Angeles.
- Pack your own picnic lunch to enjoy on the outdoor grass lawns overlooking the scenic vistas.
- Join a free docent-led architecture or garden tour to learn rich background details about the site.
The Getty Center FAQ
Is the tram ride to the top free?
Yes, the electric tram transporting visitors from the parking structure to the museum entrance is completely free. It runs continuously throughout the day and offers scenic hillside views along the way.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring outside food and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy on the outdoor public lawns and terraces. Food and beverages are strictly prohibited inside the indoor galleries.
Is the Getty Center the same as the Getty Villa?
No, they are two separate sites located in different parts of Los Angeles. The Getty Center in Brentwood displays European art and modern architecture, whereas the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades houses ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities.
Is the campus accessible for visitors with limited mobility?
Yes, the entire campus is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-accessible tram cars. Complimentary manual wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the entrance pavilion.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: egorshitikov, mauabe on Pixabay.