Getty Villa

Getty Villa is at 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., 1 mi. n. of Sunset Blvd. Access to the entrance is only from the northbound right-hand lane of Pacific Coast Highway. The approach to this re-creation of a first-century AD Roman villa set within a narrow wooded canyon is a steep cobblestone road, evocative of an ancient Roman road. With 1,200 pieces of Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities displayed in 30,000 feet of gallery space, the museum immerses visitors in the ancient world. Works date from 6500 BC to AD 400. The Museum Theater offers a 10-minute orientation film on the Villa’s history and renovation. The 500-seat Barbara and Lawrence Fleischman Theater affords a view of the museum and grounds and is the setting for the fall outdoor classic theater based on classical tragedy and comedy. The 250-seat indoor auditorium is the venue for lectures and the Villa Theater Lab, featuring new translations of Greek and Roman plays as well as contemporary works inspired by ancient literature. In addition to an herb garden and a mosaic fountain garden, two manicured Mediterranean gardens surround reflecting pools. Note: Tickets, which are for a specified time, must be reserved before arrival. They are generally available up to one month in advance and are usually, though not always, available on a same-day basis online at the Getty Center. Food is available. Time: Allow 3 hours minimum.