The Getty Center

7/1/2014

It is a great place to go and spend an afternoon to enjoy an awesome collection of art.  Free admission is amazing but it is $15 to park.  The information desk was helpful in answering questions about the Getty Museum and their history.  The staff members inside the exhibits I found to be lacking in people skills and a bit rude in trying to do crowd control.

5/7/2014

Lots of fun and a range of different art to look at. I always love coming here and am definitely planning a future trip.

3/2/2013

In all my years of living here in LA, I have only been to the Getty once and that is surprising even to me since I go to LACMA fairly often and even have a membership there.  

Architecturally, Getty is far superior than LACMA but the later's collection is more extensive than the former.  Getty is located atop a hill.  To get to the museum grounds, patrons have to take a tram from the parking structure.  My friends (visiting from out of State) and I came on the 30th of December so the place was packed. The line going to the tram was too long but moves quickly.  There were a lot of staff members who were facilitating the flow of the traffic as well as answer any questions.

Getting off the tram, one is greeted with the view of the museum which is a short walk from the tram drop-off.  We entered the main entrance and went into the lobby/welcome center.  There are several info desks with employees that can answer questions as well as hand out brochure and map of the museum.  After debating on where to go first, we decided to watch the short video on intro to the museum.  It was informative and gives a background on the museum as well as the galleries.

We went to the galleries after the short film.  They have a lot of permanent and temporary exhibits.  The collection is extensive but not as extensive as LACMA's. Still, they have a lot of European paintings that dates back between 12th or 13th to 19th and 20th century.  There were a lot of notable painting s but the highlight was van Gogh;s Irises.  There were also paintings by Degas, Monet, Cezanne, Renoir, and Sisley among others. Aside from the paintings, they also have Roman antiquities on display.

The location of the museum provides patrons with a beautiful and breathtaking 360 degrees view of the city of LA and its surrounding areas. Too bad it was way too windy and cold when we went that we were not able to stay outside very long but still we were able to get a good glimpse of the view.

There are several dining options at the Getty which ranges from casual cafeteria style to upscale sit down dinner.  Too bad we missed the last seating for lunch at the restaurant so we end up eating at the cafeteria-style dining hall.

The entrance to the museum is free but there is a parking fee of $15 per car- not bad, right?

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

1/30/2014

lets start off with the con....its so hard to find everything its like a maze..

parking was easy 15 bucks and then you a tram up to the getty which is free to get in ... the view is soo pretty when u get off the tram .. the place is nice and clean , the place to eat are decent too !!! too much to see in one day so will def have to take a trip back ..

5/12/2014

Beautiful museum with a great collection of art. Accompanied by an amazing view of LA and a beautiful garden. We spent an amazing day at the Getty. They have a great parking system where you parked at the foothill and takes the tram up to the museum. Parking is $15 but the museum is FREE. I rush through the museum and still spend the whole day here. If you want to enjoy the art, it might be more than a day to get through. Must see in LA. Try the restaurant!!!!

6/1/2014

Worth it for the panoramic views alone.  I love that it's free to get into, and parking is pretty reasonable ($15 when I went).  The food up there is, of course, overpriced (I paid $4 for a bottle of water and watched a fashionable couple in front of me lay down $50 for two half-bottles of wine and sandwiches), but that's what you get when you have a captive audience situation like that.  So much art that my friend and I began to feel overwhelmed in the best possible way.  Must-see.

8/25/2013

15 bucks for parking and it's free.  You could spend two days wondering the grounds. Bring a lunch (they freely admit their food is expensive!), bring a camera and have a GREAT day.  The view alone is worth it.  I could spend hours laughing at people stuck on the 405 (That is, until I remember I'll be on that as well..).  Don't miss this if you're visiting!

5/19/2012

Summary:  The Getty Center is Beautiful.  All of the stuff on display is ok, but I think the best part is the Getty Center itself.  I feel like they really need to revamp what's on display.  

Parking:  Parking isn't cheap here and all 3 times ive been here it has taken a while to get parking

5/28/2014

A beautiful place to spend the day with your friends or somebody you love.  Come early, pack a lunch in a cooler, then when you are ready to eat run back to the car to grab your food and have a beautiful picnic in the gardens or out on their terrace.  Just an all around amazing and educational way to spend your day.  Plus it's probably about the best date you can take somebody on and it's dirt cheap.  Go!  Explore as much as you can!  You can't go wrong!

10/31/2011

The Getty Center is one of my favorite places in LA to visit.  We are so lucky as Southern Californians to have this incredible place in our own backyard.  It is also so awesome that admission to the Getty Center and Getty Villa is FREE!   Parking per car here at the Getty Center is $15.  From the parking lot, you take a tram ride to the entrance of the museum.

Everything about this place is breathtaking.  From the amazing architecture with the imported Italian Travertine, beautiful gardens, wonderful views of Los Angeles and the exquisite paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, and countless other gorgeous pieces that the Center has acquired.  

My absolute favorite part of the Getty has to be the West Hall where the Impressionists' work is housed.  In the entire museum, the painting I love the most is Monet's Cathedral painting here.  I love to just sit and soak in all the beauty of the one room that showcases this painting along with Van Gogh's Irises, the Degas Bronzes, Cezanne's Still Life with apples and the many other awe-inspiring works.

There are so many wonderful places outside to just sit by a sculpture or fountain and marvel at the sheer beauty of this place.  I feel like I have been transported somewhere else when I am here.  Thank you, J. Paul Getty, for making your amazing acquisitions accessible to us all!

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  Model of the Center.

  Model of the Center.
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• See all photos from Kelley U. for The Getty Center

3/16/2014

amazing place. there is just a zen that this place instills that cannot be described until you see it for yourself. definitely take the architecture tour and give yourself ample time to spend and just be here. just love love love. yes you have to pay for parking, but this glorious work of art is free to see and enjoy over and over and over again and that's pretty amazing!!

1/12/2013

Yet another landmark piece of Los Angeles that makes me love living here.

Growing up in LA, my schools were always dragging me on obligatory field trips to the Getty. I remember looking up at the faces of medieval oil paint wives and exquisite sculptures when I was in elementary school and feeling bored to tears. The only thing that really excited me was the infamous Getty tram you can see scooting along from the 405. And even then, I thought it was a bit slow. These were the days I rode Goliath at Six Flags and felt badass. Forgive me.

Fast forward some years later, and I am the biggest Getty fan. I feel sorry for even thinking about being bored here. If you're into art in any form, it's all here. Interior and exterior design, sculpture, ceramics, painting, you name it. Modern, classic, ancient - it features all eras. I especially loved the furniture exhibits, which showcase exquisitely crafted royal furniture from back in the day. It was like traveling back in time. The Disneyland for adults who appreciate interior design. I was just in love with the place.

Their restaurant is great, and they even have a library-esque area to study. Parking is the only thing you pay for - admission is free. Location is convenient, and the views are gorgeous. If you haven't been, stop wasting time and go here!

3/6/2014

Throughout my whole visit to the Getty, I kept asking "how is this free?" My visit here was the highlight of a weekend trip to LA. The outdoor grounds are beautiful and provide amazing views of the city.  The museum exhibits are top notch (get the free ipod touch for the free tours of all the exhibits.) The food at the food court was surprisingly delicious. This is a must-do in LA!

1/26/2013

I've been here twice and always seem to spend all my time outdoors.  It's much prettier than indoors.  My friend who was a tourist also said we should just skip everything inside after we went thru a couple buildings.  They have food onsite and drink carts.  A Sprite was $3 so be warned.  During the summer I would even see people sleeping outside by the fountain.  It's worth a trip!

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

12/30/2012

The Getty is an incredible facility with excellent rotating exhibits as well as a world renowned art collection of their own.

The current exhibit is designed to kickoff the 2013 "Year of Italian Culture" with one of the largest displays of art ever assembled in the US focused on Florence and the dawn of the Renaissance period. As you progress along the timeline, this how this exhibit is displayed, you'll notice changes in styles and subject matter.

The current Florence exhibit is fascinating, as is the scientific analysis explaining the techniques and styles used. There's also a Metzger photography display which is excellent!

Admission to the Getty is still free and parking is $15. Much of the gardens appears closed for the winter.

8/12/2013

Super crowded.  Lines worst than Disneyland.  Aside from the insane crowds, this is a huge, free museum.  It's a bit confusing on how to get around, and it's weird that they're so nazi about having water bottles there.

$15 for parking.  Bring a picnic since there are a lot of tables with great views of LA where you can sit and eat at.  

I wish they had newer works of art displayed.

10/12/2013 Updated review

If you ever have the opportunity to come to the Getty it is worth the time and drive. Especially when the sun is setting on a clear evening. It's a speculation view of the ocean and to Catalina island on a clear sunny day. U can see the planes taken off from lax. A place to bring a date or your special half go to the garden then have lunch at the restaurant. U won't be disappointed nor the person u bring. Enjoy the day. Also look to see if they are having specials going on like concert it will be added bonus.

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  Elite yelper party at the Getty!!!

  Elite yelper party at the Getty!!!
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11/11/2012

The Getty Center is uniquely designed and located on the remote hills of LA.  The parking garage resides on the side of the hill.  It costs $15 to park but entrance to the art museum is free.  Take a short elevator ride to the tram station, which would take you up to the center.

Even the architecture of The Getty Center is a work of art!  The beautiful curves of the multi-building structure carved around the gorgeous views of downtown and the Pacific Ocean.  Inside, the structure houses a tremendous collection of paintings and structures from various eras of history and photography exhibits.  New exhibitions get rotated in and out of the art museum.  Outside framing the incredible views is a perfectly manicured botanical garden.  Quiet and peaceful.  There's a cafe and gift store inside for souvenirs and snacking.

Get lost in the beauty of The Getty Center for a few hours and exercise your under-utilized right brain.  You'll come out enlightened.  Promise...

3/3/2014

This is the height of what American culture can reach to and attain.  A splendid way to spend a day in Los Angeles.

We lucked out and took the architectural tour, led by docent, Mr. Madda.  He happens to be an architect also, and provided great insight into the architectural skills of Richard Meier, when he was commissioned to design the Getty Center.

Axis, points of view, straight lines, scale, venue designs along the freeway, landscaping demands, etc.  Mr. Madda could tell you all about them.

Also, did you know there is a color scheme of the external structural lay-out and LAVENDER is one of the colors?

Had to look really hard but it was there for all to see.

4/23/2012

I just wanted to be review 1200
I chaperoned the high school kids on a saturday field trip there....cool
the tour guide was nice....an old guy like the guy from Up, but a little more friendlier...
we learned about the rationale behind the architecture
I wish i could have stayed longer to see the sunset under the picture frame stone thing....
The art was decent...ive been to a ton of art museums so nothing too spectacular...
there was an exhibit by herb somethinng...he took a lot of naked pictures of people...interesting
The old art was cool
The recreations of european/napoleonic living rooms was awesome...that was my favorite by far...good times...
the best part was that its free....Free...FRee...FREe...FREEEEE!

5/5/2014

By far one of my favorite places in Southern California. The gardens and view are amazing, definitely need a day to spend here.

4/15/2012

I like museums I really do, but at the same time there is only so much I can take of them. My fear with the Getty is it would take far too much time to see it all, but I happy that we got everything accomplished in about 3 hours. Though I was expecting more exhibits what they had was very nice. Everything is well placed and lit. The building itself has interesting angles and is a great place to take pictures with wonderful views of L.A. The museum is free to get in and 15.00 to park.  A tram will get you to the place. The gift shops had the usual stuff to choose from, but I was happy to see a large assortment of interesting post cards (Look up cheap in the dictionary, and my picture next to it) for my budget minded self to bring back as gifts

Nothing much more to say other than to recommend the place as many others have before.

**sadly on our trip the gardens were closed. I think they are closed for at least another month

1/29/2014

Another favorite spot of mine in LA.  You don't JUST come here for the art (though you can definitely spend days here exploring just that), you come for the whole experience.  The tram ride up the side of the Santa Monica Mtns overlooking the hustle & bustle of the 405, the immense travertine architecture that feels both ancient and modern at the same time (and that'll definitely blind you as you enter the Main Hall), the sloping gardens that are a perfect respite for tired eyes and hungry tummies (pack some Diddy Riese cookies and have a picnic here), and the spectacular view of the city we all love!  I also really appreciate the Family Rooms that keep the kiddos occupied (they can only handle so much "Look-but-don't-touch" time). Gotta miss the days back in college when I was a Stack Reader and could just show up to their Research Library and touch all their art...mwahaha :)

4/11/2014

Expensive but a lot of fun ! I love the gardens, they sale alcohol and bring a camera !!

3/15/2012

I love coming to the Getty.  This place, by far, is the best place to take in a day off...  the paintings, sculptures, photographs, gardens, and the sunset...

Oh, the sunset...

Pack yourself a light lunch, digest it all while browsing the exhibits, get blown away by the amazing sunset, then head into Brentwood for a great dinner...  wonderful~

7/23/2013

Beautiful grounds, great artwork, lovely view, and free admission. What more could I ask for, oh yeah, Van Gogh Irises...which they have as their center piece of their Impressionism gallery.

9/12/2012

When I need a little inspiration, a time-out, a lovely afternoon date, or just another peek at a painting of my favorite artist of all-time --- The Getty provides all that for me, and a whole lot more.

Stunning architecture, beautiful views, and a standing collection that rivals some of the best in the USA -- plus, special exhibits and events, the gardens, the cafes, and an outstanding gift shop.  So much to do and see, and be sure to allow time to just chill outside, too.

I've been a number of times, and try to revisit at least once per year.  Even still, 5 hours of wandering around wasn't enough time to do it all.  This most recent trip I really appreciated the antiquities (is it because I am now older?).

Who's my favorite painter of all time?  Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, a Victorian-era painter, who even though he passed away 100 years ago (1912) -- there are just a handful of his paintings around the world in museums for public view.  Most are still in private collection, but here at the Getty has one of my favorites.  Check him out at alma-tadema.org

Admission is free, but parking is quite a premium at $15 per car.  Make sure to check museum hours, as they vary.

5/18/2014

Amazing place to spend in good company, the unique art, the gardens, the amazing views. This structure takes you to a whole different level.

5/29/2013

The Getty Center is a masterpiece in itself -- artfully landscaped gardens dotted with sculptures and water features, sprawling white structures that glow in the glorious sunlight, and breathtaking views of the city below. It felt like being in some California version of Mount Olympus, far away from the concerns of artless mortals.

I particularly enjoyed the section that had the marble sculptures of gods and goddesses from Roman mythology, as well as the oil paintings on the second floor. I can see how one could easily spend hours sitting in one of these rooms, just gazing at the works of art and wondering at every single stroke and detail and play of color and texture. I wish we had more time to soak it in and read every last bit of annotation that the curators displayed so that we could appreciate the art better. Unfortunately, we had to leave after about an hour.

Even then, I'd say that the place had enough time to work its magic, if only by being that mysterious stranger that smiles at you fleetingly and then floats away, leaving you  bewitched and wanting more.

2/17/2013

LA Day with my buddies! We went to the Getty on a whim. It's free admission, with a $15 parking fee (which is a good deal if you go with a bunch of people in one car haha). Going there, you need the tram! Omg the tram is so cool and clean. Being in LA you never see a clean tram or bus. I don't know I thought it was cool. Going to the actual grounds is very nice. There was multiple exhibits. I took art history in high school so I kind of remember some of the things I saw but not really lol. If you are really into art you in for a treat.

I guess the main attraction here at the Getty is the gardens. The gardens here are very beautiful and visually appealing, not to mention a view of LA as a backdrop. It's a nice place to relax and enjoy the scenery, or even enjoy a picnic. Plenty of photo opportunities here, even in the exhibits (except the photo exhibits, they don't allow that lol).

Overall, a great place to go to walk around, appreciate art, and enjoy the LA views.

3/3/2013

This was my first time here and I had an excellent time. I was so intrigued by all of the paintings, sculptures, and elegant furniture that were displayed from all around the world. Even the garden was arranged artistically. The view from... well, everywhere, was splendid! I loved seeing the LA sky(smog)line. I also liked seeing the the ocean from certain angles. The architecture of the buildings was something to behold as well. All in all, I had an aesthetically pleasing experience, but I grew tired very quickly because there is just SO much to see. I mean, there's so much walking, and a lot of the staircases aren't simple up and down staircases but extend waaaaay out and wrap around a lot. My girlfriend and I fatigue easy and this was just a workout all on its own to see everything.

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  Entrance up the steps from the tram

  Entrance up the steps from the tram

7/19/2013 Updated review

It's about 8:50pm.  I walk out of the LA Overdrive Exhibit.  The band is long gone and the DJ is playing a cover version of "Woolly Bully".  All the drink tables are now unmanned.  Seeing that the Getty is closing, we head to the tram.

Again there is an enormous line.  We see other people abandoning the tram and walking down the hill.  We do the same.  And we leave the Getty feeling like we've just wasted way more time than it was worth.

SO OVERALL, I would say Saturdays Off the 405 are a miserable waste of time.  If you do go, go early (I would guess before 5:15 pm) to beat the crowd.

And overall, the Getty is just one of LA's weakest art museums.  I think in time the art collection will mature, and maybe eventually I will stop seeing the building as being an ugly addition to otherwise unspoiled hillsides.   But I don't think there will ever be a viable solution to the logistical nightmare that is getting off Sepulveda Boulevard and to the actual art/event.  It's just a poorly planned and cumbersome exercise.  

For now, the Getty Villa in Malibu is way better (and more in line with J. Paul Getty's personal interests).  As far as larger art museums in the region, the LACMA is a way better experience and has a more unified art collection and theme.  At LACMA, you're out of your car and appreciating art in less than 15 minutes, even during a weekend event.  Even the Norton Simon Museum, with it's similar constant noise of cars traveling on nearby freeways is better than The Getty Center.  Heck, even Bergamot Station on a Saturday night is a better cultural experience than The Getty.  Sorry Getty, I really wanted to like you more. I did.  But this last experience (about my 4th) was pretty definitive.

As a parting note, the only truly enjoyable experience I ever had at The Getty was watching Bad Day at Black Rock in their cinema.  I would still recommend those classic movie showings to people.  Otherwise, it's a hoaky cultural experience.

3/26/2013

This place is nothing short of amazing. The view once you get to the top is gorgeous, but of course you get to see the lovely smog.
Other than that, it's one of those places where you should go when you have the time. There's a vast collection of art, so it's best to clear a day.

The garden is absolutely breathtaking, botanist lovers would surely enjoy this place.

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• See all photos from Sodanie C. for The Getty Center

4/6/2014

Always awesome!!!

4/6/2014

Been here many times (even got to see this before it opened to the  general public many years ago) Yesterday was a nice day cool & breezy and not too many folks as usual.,
$15 for parking and $10 if you go after 5. Never gets old because they always have new exhibits. (came to see Pollocks art and has Ansel Adams same pavillion)
Came with friends and had a nice time exploring and eventually hanging on the lawn. The lawn btw is a little brown and dry, I guess maybe because its barely spring?
My toddler had fun exploring the plants and watching the water features etc. The elevators are huge and not to out of way for us to get separated from group. And stairs were shallow, so you can also try to carry/roll down. Great view. You can bring food/ wine or eat at the cafe. (I suggest eating elsewhere or bring) During the summer they have concerts.

4/6/2014

I am in love with The Getty Center. It is definitely my favorite place to visit when I go back home. Free admission ($15 for parking before 5pm, $10 after 5pm). A lovely tram ride with views overlooking the city to the museum from the parking structure. The rotating exhibits are fantastic- putting the world's greatest art at your fingertips. I have had the pleasure of seeing Dali, Ansel Adams, and Rembrandt, just to name a few of the best. The grounds and architecture are breathtaking, with tours covering both. My favorite time is to go at night on a Saturday- the view of the city is amazing! They do have coffee carts and a restaurant if you get hungry, but do you really want to pay $3.27 for ONE water bottle?! My only other gripe is allowing small children to run amok while I am trying to enjoy antiquities dating back to  Byzantium. Can't wait for my next visit!

7/16/2013

This is probably the most beautiful museum I've ever been to. My friend and I especially enjoyed sitting outside by the trees that were made to look like bouquets, walking through the garden maze, and seeing the works of Japanese photographers in the "Japan's Modern Divide" exhibit. I wish we spent more time here, as it is a large place and you could definitely spend all day strolling around. It was rather crowded but not to the point where you couldn't enjoy yourself. It was also really neat to take the tram up to the museum.

2/26/2013 Updated review

Beautiful oasis above the city- right now they have one of Vermeer's famous paintings on display, Woman in Blue Reading a Letter! I'd advise giving yourself a full afternoon or whole day (taking a break for lunch at their cafe) for exploring the grounds and museum sections. Their bookstore also has a variety of cool trinkets to commemorate your trip! Free admission, parking is currently $15.

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• See all photos from Adrienne D. for The Getty Center

5/3/2014

Best place in LA to come for a relaxing Sunday afternoon!!

4/24/2014

I love Getty and take my friends there all the time. I love you can bring picnic and just sit on grass and relax in beautiful garden Free with $15 parking.