Visiting the Getty Center: Our First Trip and What You Can Expect

We finally made it to the Getty Center in spring 2024, and now I get the hype. It was our first time, so we didn’t really know what to expect. All I knew was that admission was free, and that sounded like a win to me.

We parked at the designated structure at the bottom of the hill ($20 for the whole day), then hopped on the tram that takes you up to the museum. The ride itself already felt like part of the experience—the views were pretty great even before we reached the top.

Once we got there, we went straight inside and explored some of the exhibits. You’ll find art from different time periods—European paintings, sculptures, photography, decorative arts, and rotating exhibitions depending on when you go. If you’re not an “art person,” don’t worry—it doesn’t feel stuffy at all. The whole place feels open and laid back.

The architecture alone is worth the visit. The buildings are modern and minimalist, with huge windows and clean lines. And once you step outside—wow. The garden area was my favorite. We spent most of our time there just taking photos and watching the ducks by the pond. It was peaceful and beautiful without trying too hard.

What To Expect When Visiting the Getty Center

• Admission is free, but parking is $20.
• You’ll park at the bottom and take a tram up to the museum—factor in time for this.
• Wear comfy shoes. There’s a lot of walking, especially if you want to explore the gardens and surrounding grounds.
• There’s a cafe and a restaurant, but you can also bring your own water and light snacks.
• Bring a camera or charge your phone—this place is made for photo ops.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Go early if you can. It gets busy on weekends and holidays.
• Don’t skip the garden. It’s stunning and a great place to just chill after walking through the galleries.
• If you’re with kids, they might enjoy the outdoor spaces more than the indoor ones—but there are family-friendly tours and materials if you want to make it a learning experience.
• Check the Getty Center website before you go for exhibit updates or any closures.

Final Thoughts

It was a simple but memorable day trip. There’s just something about places that don’t charge you an arm and a leg but still leave you inspired. If you haven’t gone yet, definitely add visiting the Getty Center to your LA bucket list. It’s the kind of place you can return to over and over—and still find something new.