This one’s for the art lover.  Or those of you who simply want to take in a great view.  As you’re driving north on the 405 freeway, before you get to what’s known as the Sepulveda Pass, you’ll see the Getty Center on the left.  It really is a big white building on the hill.

The Getty Center has two different facilities for art.  One is the museum off the 405 and the other is called The Villa located in Malibu/Pacific Palisades.  The Villa houses Greek and Roman art and looks at life back in the ancient times of Rome.  It has a beautiful and relaxing garden space and water features.  On the other hand, the Getty Center is what you’d think of when you think of a museum, and is what I’ll be talking about in this post.  And just in case you’re wondering about either of them, both are free.  ]You simply need to pay for parking and get a timed entry ticket.

Getty Center

The museum is a good sized space and the grounds surrounding it should be experienced as well.  No matter what type of art you’re looking for, they’ve got it at the Center.  Medieval to modern art and rotating exhibitions will feed your wandering eye.

There’s the courtyard where you can grab something to eat and get some fresh air, plus the central garden where you can wander around and get some great views of Los Angeles.  I would say overall a visit to the Center is an all day experience.

They have some really great rotating art exhibits and if you check out their calendar, you can time your visit to see some really impressive pieces.  There’s one exhibit opening this month and runs through the summer that might be of interest…the photography of Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems. It’s an exhibit I’m looking forward and it opened April 4th.

The Villa

If you do want to head to the Villa, check out the Villa guide and exhibition information.  See if there’s anything that catches your eye.  If nothing else, it’s a nice drive and a great place to have a picnic.

Until next time…

May the road rise to meet you and the wind be at your back.