Visiting the Getty Museum in LA

The Getty Center sits on a hill above the 405 with striking modern architecture, sweeping city views, and solid collections of European painting, sculpture, and photography. Expect a full day if you want to do it justice: the buildings and gardens are as much the draw as the art. It feels spacious and calm compared with most big museums, but weekends get crowded and the tram ride up from the parking garage sets a bit of a theme-park tone at first. The collection is strongest in Renaissance through Impressionist work; the photography galleries and outdoor sculpture are consistently excellent.

Best time is weekday mornings in spring or fall when the light is good and crowds are thinner. Summer is busier and hotter on the terraces. Expect to pay around $25–40 per person once you add parking, a bite at the cafe, and any special exhibition fee. Admission to the permanent collection is free.

Pick the Central Garden and the photography pavilions; skip the decorative arts rooms if time is short—they're beautifully displayed but less compelling than the paintings. Wear comfortable shoes; there’s a surprising amount of walking between buildings. Bring water and a snack or plan to eat early—the restaurant is decent but pricey and books up.