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Things to Do at the Getty Villa Museum

The Getty Villa

Pacific Palisades Getty Villa:
Exploring Ancient Cultures in the Heart of Los Angeles


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Last Updated on Jan 13, 2025

The Getty Villa Pacific Palisades CA
The Getty Villa Pacific Palisades CA
The Getty Villa Pacific Palisades CA

Nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles, the Getty Villa is a museum and educational center that transports visitors back in time to ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria.


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Architecture at the Getty Villa Museum

The Getty Villa Museum transports visitors to the grandeur of ancient Rome through its meticulous architectural design. Modeled after the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, Italy, the museum’s classical two-story structure features a sweeping portico and exquisite details reminiscent of ancient Roman villas. Built in the early 1970s under the guidance of founder J. Paul Getty, the villa's architecture is both a tribute to Roman craftsmanship and a harmonious blend of history and artistry. Adjacent to the museum, the Outdoor Amphitheatre and the Barbara and Lawrence Fleischman Theater complete the immersive experience, drawing inspiration from ancient theaters to create a timeless cultural space.

Greek and Roman Antiquities

The Getty Villa Museum houses an extraordinary collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, offering a journey through 4,000 years of ancient art and history. From the Stone Age to the twilight of the Roman Empire, the collection features iconic artifacts that illuminate the cultures of antiquity. Highlights include a captivating Roman-era mummy, adorned with intricate wrappings and painted portraits, as well as an exquisite selection of engraved gems showcasing the artistry of ancient jewelers. Each piece tells a story, connecting modern audiences to the rich legacy of the ancient world.

Exhibitions at Getty Villa

The Getty Villa Museum hosts a dynamic array of exhibitions, showcasing art and artifacts from across the globe alongside treasures from its own collection. The second floor offers an ever-changing lineup of temporary exhibitions, featuring rare and captivating works that inspire and educate. Highlights include the exploration of Ancient Thrace and the Classical World (Nov 12, 2024–Apr 27, 2025) at the Getty Center, and the fascinating Paper and Light (Nov 4, 2024–Mar 3, 2025) at the Getty Villa. Other notable exhibitions include Ultra-Violet: New Light on Van Gogh’s Irises and Magnified Wonders: An 18th-Century Microscope, which unveil new perspectives on iconic subjects. With exhibitions ranging from ancient history to modern technology, the Getty offers something for every art lover.

Villa Gardens

The gardens at the Getty Villa Museum offer a serene escape, blending ancient Roman design with modern tranquility. The Outer Peristyle, with its central reflecting pool and replica statues, recreates the grandeur of the Villa dei Papiri, while the Herb Garden showcases Mediterranean plants used for cooking, medicine, and decoration, arranged in ornate patterns. The Inner Peristyle welcomes visitors with Ionic columns, decorative marble, and statues surrounding a tranquil pool, evoking the elegance of Roman homes. Finally, the shaded East Garden enchants with its splashing fountains, including a mosaic-and-shell feature adorned with theatrical masks, providing a peaceful retreat amid ancient-inspired beauty.

A Walk Through Ancient Rome

The Getty Villa’s gardens, inspired by ancient Roman designs, combine fountains, sculptures, and vibrant plants that once thrived in the Mediterranean. These serene outdoor spaces are a tribute to Roman horticultural traditions, blending art and nature into a harmonious retreat.

Outer Peristyle

A centerpiece of the Getty Villa, the Outer Peristyle is a grand garden designed for contemplation and conversation. Its central reflecting pool, framed by plants such as bay laurel and myrtle, mirrors the layout of its Roman counterpart at the Villa dei Papiri. Replica statues and frescoes transport visitors back to a world of philosophers, deities, and classical artistry.

Herb Garden

This functional yet elegant space showcases a variety of Mediterranean plants used in ancient cooking, medicine, and decoration. Arranged in intricate patterns, the garden includes fruit trees like quince and apricot, alongside herbs such as thyme and oregano. The central pool, adorned with a Silenos waterspout, echoes the practical beauty of Roman kitchen gardens.

Inner Peristyle

Visitors to the Villa are greeted by the Inner Peristyle, a square courtyard surrounded by Ionic columns and decorative marble features. Statues and fountains enhance this atmospheric space, which serves as a quiet passageway to galleries or a relaxing spot for reflection, much as it did in ancient Roman homes.

East Garden

The East Garden is a hidden gem of tranquility, shaded by sycamore and laurel trees. Its fountains, including a theatrical mosaic-and-shell feature, provide soothing sounds of running water. Bronze civet heads add a whimsical touch to this serene corner of the Villa, perfect for quiet contemplation.


The Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Hotels Near Getty Villa

Visitors to the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades, CA, have a range of nearby hotels to choose from, providing comfort, style, and beautiful ocean views. Just down the coast, the Malibu Beach Inn offers luxurious accommodations with private balconies overlooking the Pacific Ocean, perfect for a relaxing coastal getaway. For a unique and historic stay, The Surfrider Malibu, a beautifully restored 1950s motel, combines modern boutique charm with rooftop dining and spectacular sunset views. In Santa Monica, hotels like the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows provide easy access to both the Getty Villa and Santa Monica’s vibrant scene, blending elegance with a convenient location. These hotels offer a comfortable retreat, ideal for unwinding after a day exploring the art and gardens of the Getty Villa.

Restaurants The Getty Villa

The area near the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades, CA, offers a delightful array of dining options, perfect for unwinding after a day of art and history. Just a short drive away, you'll find charming restaurants with ocean views, fresh seafood, and local flavors. Gladstone’s Malibu is a classic choice for fresh fish, serving up seafood favorites right by the beach. For a more casual vibe, Malibu Mutt’s Grill offers beach-friendly bites like burgers and hot dogs. If you’re in the mood for Italian, nearby Il Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi provides a cozy ambiance and authentic dishes made from scratch. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a gourmet experience, the dining spots near the Getty Villa offer something for everyone.

Pacific Palisades Visitor Guide
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