The Getty Center

4/17/2014

Always love the Getty Center. Here to see the Ansel Adams Exhibit. Should be a fun day. There are 25 photographs in the collection. The images from Lone Pine and Yosemite are amazing.

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  By the Cafe.

  By the Cafe.

8/23/2013

The Getty Center is one of the places that is a must go if you're in So.Cal.  The admission is free and there is plenty of parking $15 (if it ever runs out, you can park in the big lots across the street).

I found myself constantly immersed in the architechture, artwork, and just overall vibe of the exhibits.  Be prepared to spend a good chunk of your day traversing the entire center.  

Take your time to absorb all the art.  Spend some time relaxing by the central garden maze.  Take in the views from around the center and on your way up on the shuttle.  

I went late on a weekday so it wasn't too crowded.  Overall great experience.

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• See all photos from Huy T. for The Getty Center

1/9/2014

Not open on Monday
Free entrance but,
$15 parking everyday ($10 after 5pm)
If you pay for parking in Getty, you can get free parking in Getty Villa (& vice versa) but I'm not sure how that works...
Parking is a pain during the noon-time

My favorite place in LA because it's so peaceful and beautiful in the midst of the hustle and bustle of business. Gorgeous views of LA, well kept grounds, nice employees, beautiful artwork, what more can you want from a museum? There is a tram that takes you up to the the Getty Center from the parking garage and you can see the freeway and the houses on the hills so the tram ride is also a cool part of the museum. My favorite part of the Getty Center would have to be the garden in the back with the cool crop circle hedges and the cool trees. They keep their plants looking so nice, I don't even know how they can do it. No dead foliage anywhere o___o

If there are any visitors from out of socal, definitely take them here. It's in the heart of LA so there is so much good food and shopping that can be done around here. Close to Westwood and Sawtelle too!

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• See all photos from Nancy M. for The Getty Center

12/29/2014

Only downside is parking. It can be a pain since its only one structure and when things get busy, everyone suddenly forgets how to drive. If you just keep driving to the lower levels, you will find a spot. Large expanses of really pretty stuff! Lots of artsy stuff and lots of nature too. Stay later and enjoy the views of the city at sunset. Worth the wait of trying to get in for parking. Its a great way to spend a few hours in LA.

8/28/2014

J. Paul Getty, you're a saint for this place. Most of these reviews mention the extensive art collection, the beautiful layout, and the sweet, sweet admission price of nothing. However, a lot of these reviews also complain about the parking fee. You already know how I feel about this mueseum, given the fact that I gave it five stars, so let's talk about the parking fee at The Gettttyyyyyyyy (sung in the style of Elvis's "In the Ghetto").

If parking is available, it will most likely be for $15. Whatever, it's Los Angeles. Traffic sucks. Parking sucks. You're paying for convenience. But sure, you can take public transportation and avoid parking in general. This way, you can mask your frugality by pretending that you're an environmental activist; hence, taking public transportation when secretly,you just didn't want to pay that $15.

One of the perks is, with that $15, you get to park at The Getty and The Getty Villa (if you visit both on the same day). If you do visit both museums, it's really like paying $7.50 for parking at each place. That price seems pretty standard for parking. You can kill two museums with one parking pass.

Lastly, again, the museum is free! I'd like to pretend that the $15 parking goes toward my fake admission fee. Think about it like this: general admission at LACMA is $15 (and hey, I'm not knocking LACMA, it's totally worth the $15 in my humble opinion), but The Getty charges $15 per vehicle. So hypothetically, I could cram like nine people into my van (yes, I added another person for the trunk because it was a hypothetical situation, so why not) and it'll still cost $15. That totals to less than $2.00 per person! Totally worth it.

10/20/2014

This is a must-go to spot if you're in LA.
It's truly a phenomenal spot to view paintings and sculptures in the past. You additionally have an astonishing view of the city. I've been here three times, and I will still come back to this place.

8/18/2014

The Getty should hire a few curators from The Met. I've never experienced such a yawn fest at a museum.

The architecture of the building is breathtaking. On the train ride to the museum, you will see beautiful views of the city. The Japanese gardens surrounding the Getty are unique and serene. That's about it.

As for the art, the exibits were very sterile and lacking in diversity. How many times can one view depictions of the bible and European royalty? Did I miss the folk and modern art? No art and cultural artifacts from other countries outside of Europe? Boring.

1/3/2014

I've been to the Getty many times and I never tire of its timeless beauty.  There is pretty much nothing to lose if you come here; well, except $15 for parking, but it is SO worth it because the museum itself is free.  

"But it's boring! I don't like art!" you may protest.  Yes, there is art (lots of it), but how can you not admire the gorgeous architectural lines of the Getty itself, especially while soaking up some sun on their lush grass? You can also take in the sweeping views of LA from the upper floors.  Check out the calendar on their website for the programming schedule, which often includes free live music and film screenings.  

And if you do like art, boy are you in for a treat.  From classic to contemporary, they have pieces that will wow anybody.  Again, make sure to look on their website to see what exhibits are up, since they rotate them periodically.  

As is expected, the cafe is pretty overpriced, so I suggest that you bring your own lunch to eat out in the garden.  

Do take your out-of-town visitors here! They will probably be impressed, and this is an activity you can do with just about anybody- friends, family, small children, etc.  The Getty will always hold a fond place in the heart of Angelenos, and it's easy to see why.

2/2/2014

One of the most amazing collections I've ever seen. Not only is the art inside diverse and well curated, but the building itself and the gardens are a work of art in itself.  

Highlights:

Ringel d'Illzach's nine-foot-high bronze vase
The Vexed Man
Rouen Cathedral, Monet
Sunrise, Monet
Degas selfie
Waiting, Degas
Irises, Van Gogh
Buildings Made of Sky III, Peter Wegner
The Cactus Garden
The Sculpture Garden
The Central Garden
The view from the top of the South Pavillion

Plan at least 4 hours to visit, but you could easily spend longer there. There is a restaurant and cafe on sight, but I recommend bringing a picnic. There are plenty of places to enjoy the view and the sunny California weather.  

The parking is $15 or $10 after 5pm, that you have to pay by credit card before you leave. You take a tram to The Getty Center.  The entry to the museum is free. School tours Tuesday thru Thursday but they move through quickly, so just head in the opposite direction. Free tours are offered and last about 45 minutes to an hour.

7/26/2014

Not sure how you can ever give this place anything lower than a five star rating review free to get and yes you have to pay for parking but it's totally worth it.

The food in the café is pretty decent

2/11/2014

Amazing place for a date! They have a interesting garden in the back, if you're wearing pointy heels.. Good luck walking on dirt.

Nothing much to talk about the staff here because they barely talk. They smile though :) hehee

If you appreciate art, this is the place for you. Theres paintings and sculptures everywhere. Make sure you don't use flash photography.

1/14/2014

I must preface this with the fact that I'm not an art person. I really enjoy photography, but paintings and sculpture are just not my thing. I'm more of a science kind of gal. So my main reason for asking the bf to take me here was for the view in hopes of snagging some sweet photographs. Well joke is on me, it was overcast and chilly that day (one of the two days a year it's like that here in sunny SoCal). Nonetheless, the grounds were still great to walk around. But I literally fell asleep standing up looking at a painting that spanned an entire wall.

They do have an antique microscope though.

4/6/2014

Always a good time here. Permanent exhibits and temp ones. Come see Pollocks largest mural right now(April 2014). Good views-even with the smog.
Concerts on the lawn- children/family series during the summer.
Free to visit- parking $15 a car.

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  Pano

  Pano
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  Pollock mural.

  Pollock mural.
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  One of several water features in courtyard.

  One of several water features in courtyard.

3/19/2014

I love coming here!

There is always so much to do and see, and the exercise you get from going exhibit to exhibit (up stairs, down stairs, standing in line, etc.).  Wear your tennies for sure!

Also would recommend if you get the least bit motion sick, to take a pill or whatever works while you're taking the tram up & down.

The views of the city are spectacular!  

Enjoy!

9/15/2014

This is one of my absolute favorite museums ever. The first time I came here was with a group of my friends about 4-5 years ago. You pay 15 bucks for parking and then admission is free. It's a pretty big museum so there's a lot of art to look at and ponder, analyze, interpret and appreciate.

I love the architecture of the museum as well as their landscaping. One day I hope I can go there with friends and have a picnic or something or just to go back and explore again. There's a great view of LA since it's pretty much perched at a top of a hill.

Another thing to do is admire things other people wouldn't. For example I like to look up a lot at the ceiling or roof cause it gives you a different perspective on things. Look for the unordinary!

12/12/2013

There's nothing I can write that hasn't already been said to the nth degreee to persuade you to come to the Getty. You just have to see & experience it yourself. I can tell you that I feel it's a true treasure to have in Los Angeles. When I was in high school, many moons ago... we had an art teacher that implored us, made us go to the the Getty villa. This was before the Getty Center was finished with its construction & current look. She told us that people come from all over the world to see the art collection of J. Paul Getty. In fact, she said, they make a point of including it in their trips to the Los Angeles area.... The least we can do is see it once. And we have the luxury of having it in our backyard to visit any time we want. And at what cost? It's FREE... Back then it was just a reservation for parking that was needed. Now you just come and park for $15. No calling ahead.. No finding out parking is all reserved. It's too easy.

Let me list the things I love about the Getty. First the tram ride up, I like it... It's like going to Disneyland for me. You look down at the traffic congestion of the 405, it's bad... be glad you're not on that... and once you step off, that craziness is a world away... I love the architecture of the buildings, the view of the Pacific, the view of the mansions... I love the many places to sit and enjoy a snack, meal or just plain conversation the Getty offers its visitors. I love the photo exhibits, the french design decorative pieces, the sculptures all over the property and mostly i love the irises... Vincent van Gogh's irises is my absolute favorite. I stand in front of it for a minute or 2 and soak it in. I'm not some art expert... I can hardly draw a stick figure & can hardly differentiate a brushstroke from a breaststroke but i can tell you when i saw the irises for the first time.. it moved me and i knew then and there it was one of my most favorite paintings. I cannot explain it. It's just that beautiful to me... Irises.

Go see the Getty. The renaissance paintings of the masters... And everything the Getty has to offer. Hopefully you like it as much as I do. I havent explored the gardens but so many people love those too. All those people cannot be wrong... Thank you J. Paul Getty.

ps - Thank you Ms. Milo for making us go... You were so right.

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  until next time... thank you to the getty

  until next time... thank you to the getty
• See all photos from Chuck D. for The Getty Center

8/18/2014

I would take a star off for the ridiculous parking prices ($15), but the awesomeness of the museum more than makes up for it. It's a great place to take a date, but you can pretty much bring anybody here and make it an enjoyable experience. Everything from the stunning architecture to the gorgeous gardens are memorable. People sometimes just lie down and have picnics on the majestic lawns with splendid views of the city.

My recommendations:
1. Pack in your own food. Because food is expensive there, and a picnic on the grass is picture perfect.
2. Arrive early in the morning (10AM) and leave before 2pm (to avoid 405 traffic).
3. Bring something warm to wear- it can get quite windy up there, even on a hot day.
4. Bring sunscreen. A lot of the exhibits are outdoors.

12/2/2013

Wow!  Yep that pretty much sums it up. Bye..... OK, FINE.... Ill write a little more.

::::::::::THE ART::::::::::

This is the reason why you came, right?  The expertly curated collections of the Getty will embrace you and help you discover the art fanatic you didn't know you had.  Each pavilion (South, East, West) has a different "theme" and therefor you get to experience something new. From French paintings, to sculpture to photography there is something for everyone.  They also have a variety of different exhibitions, so check online.  When I went (11/30/13) they had artifacts from Canterbury and St. Albans.  Seeing the stained glass windows and handwritten bibles was amazing.  My favorite was the South Pavilion, I personally like the furniture and decor of France.  The photography section was a little disappointing, the obscure pictures were "nice" but after the 20th one I was over it.  Also, there are places for you to sketch (and they provide all the materials SCORE).

::::::::::THE VIEWS::::::::::

The view of LA is an Exhibit of its own.  If you are a photography student or just like nice pictures for Instagram and Facebook come here.  Looking out over the buildings at sunset makes everything more romantic.

Tips:

- Wear comfortable shoes. Like really comfortable.  Its a TON of walking.  Up and   down stairs, in and out of buildings.  Bring an extra pair of feet if you can :)

- Don't wait until last minute to take the tram, seriously.  Its gonna be crowded.

- Don't get to close to the art, the docents will warn you.

- Study at least one paintings history, so you feel cool talking about the art surrounding you.

9/14/2014

Getty center is a must see LA attraction. Tram takes you up to the museum. Museum is located in different buildings...garden is beautiful. Views are pretty cool too. Free admission, parking is $15 dollars. Parking structure is super hot!! Couldn't wait to get in the elevator. The Cafe is pretty pricey, but food is plentiful and fresh...lots of variety.

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  Nice!

  Nice!
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  Looks better in person.

  Looks better in person.

11/27/2013

Cub Scouts roaming the Getty... that could be dangerous!  But our Cubmaster is wise beyond his years and reserved the "architecture tour" for my son's troop.  A perfect AND SAFE way to begin a boy's journey into art.  Ms. Carla was our tour guide for the morning excursion.  She directed us through the grounds, pointing out the many structural details Richard Meier, the architect behind the Getty's design, had emphasized.  Positive & negative space, symmetry, depth perception, spacing, shape emphasis, tavertine history... it was a quality presentation for young lads and the pace was just right to keep their attention.  Lots of hands-on interaction, because boys just NEED that!  Despite the sophistication that the Getty exudes, Ms. Carla interacted with these young lads quite adroitly.  From "Why do bugs fly here?" to "Is that a mixture of positive AND negative space?," she handled it all without showing frustration or irritation.  Good job Ms. Carla!

The tour went well.  The problem was me being so bold and deciding to continue our visit by roaming the art collection and agreeing to the young squires' request to "Be A Getty Art Detective," leaflets found in the Family Cart (Museum Entrance Hall) or Family Room that put some fun into the art galleries.  Oh boy!  Things switched from me being a passive listener to an aggressive defender.  Because of all the hands-on touchy feely stuff from the tour, the boys were under the impression, EVERYTHING was free to touch...AAAGH!  I was acting like Neo from "The Matrix"... anticipating, blocking, lunging, pulling, and LOTS OF RESTRAINING!!!  Enough with the "evil eyes" Mista Security Guard, I GOT THIS!  I was stressin' and playing defense IS TIRING!!!  And here I am, still trying to foster an appreciation for the antiquities collected here...Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, William Bouguereau, all names they hopefully will be familiar with, in time.  After an hour and a half, we made our way to the "Family Room" in the North Pavilion, a small area dedicated to kids that lets them be themselves, while I took a breather!  Hah!  Finally, a romp through the Central Garden and Lower Terrace Garden for more unhindered exploration.  Hopefully they'll work on markers for the beautiful and aromatous florals in the gardens.

All in all, more fun than I remember when I was a kid and my parents brought me to the original Getty museum, now called the Getty Villa.  The only admission price is the parking fee of $15.  Its FREE to roam otherwise!  Have fun!  We sure did...for the most part, Nyaah!! ;)

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  Purple beauty

  Purple beauty
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  Family Room in the North Pavilion

  Family Room in the North Pavilion
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  "the other" Vincent van Gogh

  "the other" Vincent van Gogh
• See all photos from Dave A. for The Getty Center

1/25/2015

5 stars is for the awesome panoramic views of the city.  Arrive early if you don't want the hassle of finding a parking spot.

1/20/2015

The Getty is iconic LA.  Its easy to get to off the 405.  Go when theres minimal traffic.  you have to pay for parking but not for the museum.  They have a great selection of exhibits that come and go.  You can go to the Getty many times and see something new every time.  Go get your learn on.

12/1/2013

The Getty is clearly an L.A. treasure. I have been here 5-6 times in the last 8 years and have loved it each and every time. It's especially fun to take friends and family visiting from out of town as no one expects such a vast and impressive space in the heart of the city.  Best thing is that its free ($15 parking for your car). The tram ride to the museum on top is one of the best parts...my nephews had such a blast going up, especially when they could see the awful traffic on the 405!

It's also a cute date spot, especially if you pack a nice picnic basket. They have great concerts in the summer--you can even bring your own picnic!

Overall, a must see in LA. Stunning architecture, beautiful views and an amazing collection and exhibits makes it a winner!

12/5/2013

I've been so many times over the years and it's always nice to go back once in awhile. I love that admission is free (you only pay for parking). And if you have the time and energy, you can pay for parking once and also go to the Malibu location.

Great place to walk around the gardens, maybe relax and read a book on the grass and learn some stuff at the different exhibits. It's so quiet up high (since you have to take a tram up to the grounds), and very peaceful.

I'm so glad there is a place like this dedictated to the arts and letting them public enjoy it.

8/20/2014

so this is a tourist attraction that i was told i needed to check out from the start. i'm a fan of museums, i usually check them out in my home city and when i'm vacationing. but i'm only really interested in certain styles or eras of art (i've seen enough of ones that i'm not as interested in to be bored of them). the getty was huge and kind of tough to navigate. i didn't know what was in each wing until i walked all the way there.
actually, my favorite part was probably the gardens.
it is worth visiting, it's a cool place, but i've seen it once and that was enough.

5/30/2013

In need of a great, cheap date idea?

Culture. History. Art. Landscape. Architecture. Views of L.A. And it's always free! In a city where nothing is free, I'm pleasantly surprised.

There's something intriguing about the way the art pieces are displayed and placed. It keeps your attention since art is mixed in with furniture pieces, vases, etc. There was the area holding a grouping of paintings upstairs, but you can't hate on that when Monets are beautiful.

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The outdoor garden is manicured and clean. Bring a picnic, a yoga mat, or just lie out in the grass and relax against the wall.

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Parking: Memorial Sunday was pretty light, but I think a lot of people were out of town. It costs $15 to park in their structure. Spots can be a little tight. There are a few random larger ones. I took a corner spot, but car to my left was still pretty close. No door dings...phew.

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  Ladybug poppy

  Ladybug poppy
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8/31/2014

Totally worth a drive. Worldwide collections & the view is breathtaking. A must visit for LA tourists!

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• See all photos from Sophia V. for The Getty Center

11/8/2014

FALSE ADVERTISING.

The website states "Pay once  & park twice," at the Villa and Center? Do they honor that deal?  Absolutely not.  

They forced me to pay Twice at the Getty museum.

DO NOT ADVERTISE A DEAL IF IT DOES NOT EXIST.  Basic business sense and customer service.

5/21/2013

I mean, it's the Getty.

I feel like I'm reviewing Starbucks or something, that's how obvious the Getty is...but I realize there are out-of-towners who will just absolutely die without my review and will scratch it off their list entirely unless I tell them to go, so here it is:

GO.

Seriously, just go. It's a staple of Southern California, and even if you aren't interested in art or architecture (you uncultured heathen), the grounds alone stand to impress. I would recommend coming later in the afternoon so you can both enjoy the art and gardens during the day and then still be around for the sunset which is beautiful from about a dozen different places on the property.

This is one of my favorite places to come on weekends, and I visit just about every time a new exhibit opens (once a month generally). It is free to get in (you just pay for parking and take the shuttle up), you can spend hours upon hours or just a quick chunk of your day here, and the views of Los Angeles are pretty unrivaled (note: you can head up to Mulholland Drive afterwards for my MOST favorite view).

Don't be ridiculous, this should be high on your list of Los Angeles attractions. This and a Dodger dog and then you can go home. Like don't even watch the game, just get the Dodger dog.

You're welcome as usual.

5/22/2014

This was one of the best experiences in LA (we were visiting from Canada). This is something you really have to visit even if you are just a few days in the area.

The experience of the museum is thought through to the littlest detail (from parking assistance and signs to the last escort off the museum to the shuttle tram).

One can experience not just the masterpieces of art but also admire the architectural genius of the buildings! And I was also astonished by all the magnificent views of the entire city from the balconies.

I am well travelled and visited a hundred (not literally) museums around Europe, but this one does not get boring even after hours of roaming around.

**Check out the acoustics in cafe, you can hear people talk from the distant corners of the room!

** It was a bit chilly inside, I was wearing a tank, I would suggest taking a light jacket with you

2/13/2014

The Getty! I've gone here a number of times as a kid, visiting for school field trips and most recently decided to take a friend who's never been. The Getty has free admission but the parking fee is $15. Kind of pricey but oh well! Once you park, you go upstairs to take a tram up to the actual museum. The views outside are kind of nice while you're going up.

Once you get to the museum, there are a number of buildings to check out (beautiful architecture!), outdoor gardens (really peaceful and scenic), small cafes, and a gift shop. There are several vantage points which allow a really beautiful view of the city ... depending on if there's smog that day or not. There are a ton of art exhibits, so be prepared to spend most of the day here.

There are self-guided audio tape tours for the art and actual real tours for the gardens and architecture of the Getty. These run about an hour and happen multiple times a day.

The Getty is closed on Mondays and closes early (at 5:30p) everyday except Saturdays (open til 9p). Keep that in mind when planning your visit!

1/14/2014

The best part of visiting this museum is the tram ride to the museum. Beautiful views.

I'm not so much into artsy museums, but I can imagine if you are-this is a great place. It is HUGE. The whole place is well-kept and there are multiple areas/floors.

Admission is free, but parking is $15.

10/20/2014

What else is there to say? It's the Getty. The gardens are beautiful. Even in the winter. There are so many exhibits, you can't see them all unless you spend a whole day. Only thing is, I haven't tried the food here. Definitely recommend for everyone to go any time.

2/26/2014

I looooooooooooooove the little garden/fountain they have! It's a perfect background to take pictures!!

The paintings and sculptures inside the museum are very fascinating and interesting to look at! But if you're not interested in history... You won't be interested at all... AHAHAH

I love how they have a spacious picnic area!
You can even bring your own food to eat ! There are a lot of tables and seatings~ staff are everywhere so if you get lost or have a quick question, you'll always find somebody!

If you want to get a view of LA from here, it's not the best idea bc all you'll see are trees... Hahaha!

4 stars bc the pics on the website looked more intriguing but then again... False advertisement to get you to come visit

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• See all photos from Theresa T. for The Getty Center

12/2/2014

Good place for sight seeing everything is free except parking

11/19/2014

The Getty is a Los Angeles icon and a must-do for any resident or visitor.  Getty's legacy has left LA with a treasure.

12/9/2013

Admission to the Getty Center is free! The only thing you have to pay for is $15 parking.  The parking structure has plenty of levels for parking so you just got to be patient and drive around in circles a few minutes.  Once you get out of your car and head to the elevator, it takes you to the tram.  The tram is also free, which takes you up to the Getty Center.  Once you're there, you're free to roam around and check out the beautiful art and take in the scenery of Los Angeles.  This is a great place to take a date and just wander around and take pictures.

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• See all photos from Danny N. for The Getty Center

6/2/2014

Went here for the Di Vinci and Rembrandt exhibits. I absolutely love this place. It has a very relaxing atmosphere and all of the Louis XIV furniture is simply mind blowing. Its amazing how opulent and seriously expensive this furniture is.

I still want to go the The Villa and I would love to build my own Roman style Villa some day. The area around the Getty and the grounds are amazing. I could lay out a blanket and crack a bottle of wine and stay all day.

One note, sneak in your own wine and save some money but please donate to the Getty ;-) I joke, dont sneak in your own wine *wink wink*

8/26/2014

You have to make reservations online, but if you take one day to see both the Getty Villa and the Getty Center (at another location), you can get parking for only $15. There is no admission charge for either museum.  That, is a pretty great deal, compared to the $20 or $30/person you would spend at a NYC museum, which doesn't include transportation costs.  

To get here, you park in a garage and take a very clean and fast tram up the side of a mountain, with the highways zooming down below.  

We saw the Ensor exhibit, which wasn't the least bit "shocking" or "perverse," but I guess that got us in the door.  

There are many permanent exhibitions as well, such as the re-creation of an over-the-top Caribbean (?) plantation house, complete with furniture built to last several lifetimes.  

The views are amazing here, and you can sit outside at one of the many cafe tables, or enjoy the rolling lawns.  

Tons of kids running around, their parents relaxing in the grass, others strolling by the sculpture gardens or enjoying the various water features.  Idyllic.

4/19/2014

Perched on the hillside of the Santa Monica mountains and glistening in Italian limestone lies The Getty Center.   While serenity can be felt inside the halls of this museum, beauty can be captured everywhere on the grounds of the Getty. From the tram-ride, to the sculptures, architecture, and courtyards, you'll find yourself mesmerized by all of it.   The most wonderful part?  Admission is absolutely free! The only caveat? Parking is $15. ($10 after 5PM)

The most popular displays are van Gogh's Irises, the beautiful Sculpture Garden, and Jackson Pollocks' Mural.  My favorite is simply the open courtyard in between the two pavilions.  It's a relaxing and romantic setting that allows you to see the horizon of Los Angeles.  Bring a date, blanket, some sandwiches, and enjoy the sights; Go on a Saturday night to catch the starry (or Los Angeles' smokey) skies.  On top of the pavilions, you'll be able to see the landscape of LA in it's entirety which is a definite must-see too.
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Conclusion:  The Getty is LA's cultural acropolis displaying refinement at it's best.  Since 1997, this museum boasts a collection of Impressionist paintings, French furniture, illuminated manuscripts, contemporary photography, and European drawings.  Not only that, but when you visit this museum, you'll come across a wide spectrum of different people--from rich to poor, cultured to gothic, old and young--it's beautiful in itself and very fun for people-watching. haha The center is kid-friendly (Hi JoAnn! Lol) by providing a family room with fun activities near the East Pavilion too. I strongly encourage every SoCal person to come here once to experience the timeless, sophistication that the Getty has to offer.

Extra Notes:
-Fact: van Gogh's Iris Painting cost 54 million to acquire and 1 billion to construct the complex that it's housed in.  O_o
-Parking machines accept credit card and are located at tram departure.
-$15 for parking, $10 after 5PM- You can pay before you leave, not when you arrive
-CLOSED on Mondays
-Tues-Fri&Sun Open from 10AM-5:30PM. Sat open from 10AM-9PM
-If hungry, there's a cafe located near the exit of the tram and a more fancy, expensive restaurant directly a floor above it.
-I assume the employees here are trained to be mean and angry.  Pictures are allowed, but there are rooms where it isn't...the employees will be quick to scream at you to let you know when it's not permitted
-Clean restrooms

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• See all photos from Philip V. for The Getty Center