Is the Getty Center in Los Angeles Worth a Visit?

The Getty Center is free and no reservations are required, so there is no reason to miss this incredible collection of sculptures, photographs, drawings and manuscripts. Located on a hillside in the Santa Monica Mountains, this marble structure is picturesque. Full of impressionists, French furniture, and manuscripts of presidents and dignitaries alike, its like having an art, history, and cultural lesson all in one.

Visitors park at the base of the hill and are taken by cable-driven electric tram to The Getty Center. You can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean on sunny, clear days. On 110-acres of natural landscape, The Getty Center's five two-story pavilions surround the outdoor courtyard in extravagance. All of their displays are lit by natural light - no flash bulbs are allowed during any viewings of the art. As the day moves from morning to night, The Getty's Center has louvers move the blinds from one setting to another to make the most of the natural lighting.

Tours are given of the grounds, and take about 45 minutes. And The Getty Center thought of the kids in their design. With hands-on activities, Art Detective game cards for kids to find art exhibits to engage their curiosity, kids will enjoy their time visiting.

The most viewed piece, and one of Getty's most popular, is van Gogh's Irises. Acquired for $53.9 million, the painting is displayed in a $1 billion building.

A note of advice: If you want to see the Getty Center without all the crowds, plan to visit late afternoon or evening. With the Getty Center being open until 9:00 pm Friday and Saturday, you'll have plenty of time to yourself to enjoy all the Getty has to offer.

http://www.getty.edu/