Getty Center

The Basics

Even getting up to the Getty aboard the computer-operated tram is fun. From the sprawling arrival plaza, a natural flow of walkways, stairs, fountains, and courtyards encourages a relaxed pace between galleries, gardens, and outdoor cafés. Five buildings house collections of manuscripts, drawings, photographs, furniture, and decorative arts, and an assortment of pre–20th-century European paintings. Must-sees include Van Gogh’sIrises, Monet’sWheatstacks, and Rembrandt’sThe Abduction of Europa.

The Getty is one of LA’s most visited museums, so purchase tickets ahead of time to guarantee admission. City highlights tours stop here, often in combination with the Getty Villa or celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. If you’re interested in aerial views of the remarkable building, take a helicopter or plane tour of the area.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The J. Paul Getty Museum is a must-do for art and architecture lovers.

• Children can visit the interactive Family Room or browse the special kid bookstore.

• Dining options include snack carts, a cafeteria, a self-service café, and a restaurant with scenic views.

• The museum store sells books and merchandise inspired the museum’s antiquities collection and seasonal exhibitions.

• The Getty is accessible to wheelchairs. Service animals are welcome, and there are options for those with mobility, sight, and hearing impairments.

How to Get There

The J. Paul Getty Museum is located west of Hollywood. Metro bus lines 734 and 234 stop at the Getty entrance, at the intersection of Getty Center Drive and Sepulveda Boulevard. There is no street parking; paid parking is available in the Getty Center lot, which opens 30 minutes before the museum. Take the free tram from the street-level parking area to the top of the hill.

When to Get There

The Getty is open every day except Mondays and Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day; check the website for opening hours. Late afternoon is a great time to visit if you want to beat the crowds, plus parking fees are reduced at this time—and the Cactus Garden is lovely in the afternoon light.

Special Exhibitions

Before visiting, check to see what special exhibitions or public programs are available. The museum is constantly showcasing new pieces from the collection or major works from around the world, and tickets can sell out way in advance on these special dates.

Ways to explore

The Getty Center is one of LA’s most visited museums, so it’s best to book timed-entry free tickets in advance. The museum offers a variety of daily tours, covering its art collection, architecture, or the garden—see the website for timings and to reserve your place in advance. There’s also a self-guided audio tour available in 10 languages that you can download to your phone via the Getty app.

Many city highlights tours also stop here, often in combination with the Getty Villa or celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. For aerial views of the museum building, you can take a helicopter or plane tour of the area.

Accessibility

The Getty Center is wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking and restrooms. Wheelchairs are available for loan from the Lower Tram Station and the Main Entrance Hall. ASL interpretation can be arranged for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing, and assistive listening devices (ALDs) and induction neck loops are available. Service dogs are welcome.

Age limits

None; the museum offers an audio guide for children via its app, and activity sheets. Note small children cannot be carried in back carriers, although front-facing carriers are fine.

What to pack

Water bottle, picnic to eat in designated areas, headphones to listen to audio guide, small bag

What to wear

Choose layered clothing that's weather-appropriate for exploring the outdoor areas, plus flat and comfortable shoes.

Not allowed

Flash photography, selfie sticks within the galleries, tripods, drones, child carriers worn on the back, large bags in galleries, pets, alcoholic beverages (unless bought at the on-site eateries)

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi, restaurant, cafés, gift shop, coat check

Address 

The Getty Center is located west of Hollywood in the Brentwood Hills. You can arrive by car, rideshare, bus, or with guided LA sightseeing tours that include museum entry.

Driving

If driving from downtown Los Angeles, GPS devices can sometimes give wrong directions, so input the full address: N Sepulveda Blvd & Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049. Parking is available on-site for a fee.

Public transportation

Metro bus 761 stops outside the entrance, where Getty Center Drive intersects with Sepulveda Boulevard. Some sightseeing bus tours also stop at the center.

Best times to visit

Late afternoon is a great time to visit if you want to beat the crowds, plus parking fees are reduced after 3pm.

Best days to visit

The Getty is open every day except Mondays and the following holidays: Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Come on a weekday if you can to avoid the weekend crowds.

Best months to visit

March through May, October, and November offer mild weather for exploring the gardens. Avoid July and August as these months are typically the busiest.

Special events

It’s best to check the events calendar before visiting, as there are events throughout the year, including live music performances, family workshops, and rotating exhibitions.