Getty Center to Close for Major Modernization Project

The iconic Los Angeles museum will undergo a year-long renovation starting in 2027.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph showing the distinctive architecture of the Getty Center, with its gardens and fountains visible in the background, captured in a soft, warm, and hazy color palette.The temporary closure of the Getty Center will allow for major upgrades to enhance the visitor experience at this iconic Los Angeles landmark.Los Angeles Today

The Getty Center in Los Angeles has announced plans to close for a year-long modernization project starting in March 2027. The $100 million renovation will upgrade the museum's tram system, HVAC, and gallery layouts to enhance the overall visitor experience. The Getty Villa will remain open during the closure.

Why it matters

As one of the most popular art museums in Los Angeles, the temporary closure of the Getty Center will impact both local residents and tourists who visit the iconic hilltop campus. The modernization project aims to make the museum more accessible and engaging for future visitors.

The details

The Getty Center's $100 million renovation will focus on upgrading the museum's infrastructure, including the tram system that transports visitors up the hill, the HVAC systems, and the layout of the galleries. The goal is to improve the overall visitor experience and make it easier for people to access and enjoy the museum's world-class art collection.

  • The Getty Center will close on March 15, 2027.
  • The museum is expected to reopen in spring 2028 after the completion of the renovation project.

The players

Katherine Fleming

CEO and President of the J. Paul Getty Trust, which oversees the Getty Center.

Anna Cho

A visitor from South Korea who expressed disappointment about the temporary closure.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When it was being built, it was just tremendous excitement. It felt so bold, big, innovative, beautiful and majestic.”

— Katherine Fleming, CEO and President of the J. Paul Getty Trust

“It's one and only compared to other modern art museums. It's very unique to L.A., so it would be sad for the people visiting in 2027.”

— Anna Cho

What’s next

The Getty Center will continue to collaborate with partners on programs during the closure, and the Getty Villa will remain open to visitors.

The takeaway

The temporary closure of the iconic Getty Center in Los Angeles is necessary to undertake a significant modernization project that will enhance the museum's accessibility and visitor experience. While the closure may disappoint some, the renovations aim to position the Getty Center as an even more engaging and welcoming cultural destination for years to come.