The Getty

The Getty in Los Angeles is, undoubtedly, one of my favorite properties in the country. When you arrive, you are taken by tram up a mountainside as classical music plays. As the tram doors open, you are greeted by an expansive, pristine, and sunlight-filled plaza and surrounded by Richard Meier’s bright, geometric architecture in every direction. As you climb the stairs of the plaza, you will notice the Los Angeles skyline in the distance, as well as numerous mountain ranges and the Pacific Ocean. The grandeur of The Getty cannot be overstated.

The Getty Research Institute is housed on this property, and, in tandem with the museum and gardens, this creates a respectful, creative, and academic energy on site. The combination of its visual splendor, magnetic energy, and curious visitors is quite moving. I easily find myself daydreaming when I’m here due to the spirit and magnificence of the entire property.

Below, I’ve written a few simple tips to keep in mind when planning a visit for yourself.

Plan to spend at least a half-day at The Getty. My favorite way to visit is to arrive right at opening, take photos for about one hour before it gets too crowded, eat an early lunch at the café, and then spend several hours enjoying the property, including viewing the art exhibits, spending time in the gardens, and walking unhurriedly through the campus with my camera.

Admission is free, but you must reserve an entry time in advance. Again, my favorite way to visit to arrive right at opening, or 10:00am.

If you enjoy creating photographs, patience is key at The Getty. Allow yourself to spend several hours here to capture the architectural features that speak most to you as they are first covered in shadow and soon drenched in sunlight as the day progresses, or vice versa. One of my favorite vantage points is from a staircase that few people rarely climb. (It is a completely normal staircase, but I rarely see anyone on it.) If you stand at the front door of the Museum Entrance Hall and look out over the plaza where you arrived, there is a staircase to your left. There is a food and beverage booth to the right of this staircase. If you go down this staircase, you will see the café. If you go up this staircase, you will be at eye level with the abstract curves of the Museum Entrance Hall. Climb this staircase, and photograph away.

Wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunglasses and sunscreen.

If you visit alone, consider listening to a favorite playlist to create a truly evocative, introspective experience. There are numerous fountains on site, so the ambiance is serene without any music as well.

You can visit The Getty’s full website here.

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