California Los Angeles Getty Center Postcard

The Getty Center, perched on a hilltop in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, is one of the city’s most celebrated cultural landmarks. Designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, the center opened in 1997 and is known for its striking modern architecture, meticulously manicured gardens, and panoramic views of Los Angeles. Visitors reach the campus via a scenic tram ride from the base of the hill, which adds to the experience of arriving at a place that feels both serene and monumental. Inside, the Getty Center houses a vast art collection that spans European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, manuscripts, and photographs. Masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Monet are part of the permanent exhibits, alongside rotating special exhibitions. Beyond the art, the center’s design and landscape offer a visual experience in their own right—white travertine stone walls glow in the California sun, and the Central Garden, designed by artist Robert Irwin, provides a living work of art with its stream-fed paths, tree-lined walkways, and a blooming azalea maze. Admission is free, making the Getty not only an artistic treasure but also one of the most accessible high-art experiences in the country.