The Getty Villa

Open since 2006, the Getty Villa is dedicated to sharing the arts and culture of ancient Greece, Rome and Etruria. You can explore more than 1,200 works of art in the 28 indoor and outdoor collection galleries take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy live performances, lectures and symposia in the auditorium or amphitheatre.

Throughout the day, you’ll experience—with all five senses—what the life and times of ancient cultures would have been like. Take a guided tour of the collections, gardens, architecture and more led by a museum docent.  Tours are offered two to three times each day, so be sure to get to arrive on time. Then, visit the outer and inner peristyle, herb garden and east garden where you’ll find hundreds of plant species from the Mediterranean region as well as lily ponds and mosaic accents.

The museum galleries are arranged by themes and include stories of the Greek and Roman Gods. You’ll find marble sculptures of Aphrodite, Zeus, Athena and many others. Also, items from everyday life including vine vases, bowls, flasks and many other items made from cooper, silver and gold—all with impressive intricate detail. An entire gallery is dedicated to the athletes and athletic competitions in the ancient world.

A statue of a victorious youth offers a glimpse into the life of an Olympic champion. You’ll see a solid gold Olympian wreath, given to the winner of athletic events. This wreath tradition can still be seen today in the form of olive tree leaves. There is an extensive collection of jewelry and coins dating as far back as 6,500 B.C. all the way through A.D. 400.

For families, explore the museum using the art detective cards and the family audio guides available via multimedia players that can be checked out at the media desk ($5 rental). Children will enjoy hunting for art and learning fun facts about the plants, buildings and other pieces of art they will explore. In the family forum, enjoy hands-on learning through character role play and then build your own classical vase, decorate a life-size replica of a vase and peak inside of a kiln to learn how vases are made.

Located on the second level of the Getty Villa grounds you’ll find the Café serving Mediterranean fare including sandwiches, wraps, desserts and a variety of drinks including wine. Enjoy your meal in the outdoor dining area and bask in the beautiful view and ambiance. Or, visit the coffee kiosk for a light snack and a coffee or espresso drink.

HelloLosAngeles Tip: Admission to the Getty Villa is free, but you are required to make a reservation in advance for each adult. Reservations must be made online for a specific timed ticket. Each ticket is good for one adult and up to three children ages 15 and under. Parking at the Getty Villa is $15 per car during the day and it is free for evening programs held after 5 p.m.

- by Jennifer Pruett, Los Angeles Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Jennifer Pruett

A self proclaimed “queen of everything," Jennifer is a writer, planner and passionate lover of making exciting events extra special. As a creative mother of two she loves art, music, family, friends, exotic cuisine and exploring new areas of self improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been writing restaurant and attraction reviews in the Phoenix Metro area since January, 2009.