Getty Center to Close for Major Renovations Ahead of 2028 Olympics

The iconic Los Angeles museum will undergo a $600-800 million upgrade, including updates to the tram system and public spaces.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:20am

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A high-contrast silkscreen print in neon pink, orange, and blue hues depicting the iconic architecture of the Getty Center, repeated in a grid pattern to create a modern pop art aesthetic.The Getty Center's modernist architecture takes on a bold, pop art aesthetic in this conceptual illustration ahead of the museum's major renovations.Los Angeles Today

The Getty Center in Los Angeles announced it will close for one year starting March 15, 2026 to undergo its most significant renovations since opening nearly 30 years ago. The $600-800 million project will focus on modernizing the museum's tram system, Welcome Hall, and South Pavilion, with the goal of providing an elevated experience for the 1.3 million annual visitors. The Getty has also purchased a new building across the freeway to host public programming during the closure. The museum plans to reopen in spring 2028, ahead of the Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics.

Why it matters

The Getty Center is one of Los Angeles' most iconic cultural institutions, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience its world-class art collection and stunning architecture. These renovations will help ensure the Getty remains a premier destination, both for locals and the influx of tourists expected for the 2028 Olympics.

The details

The renovations will focus on upgrading the Getty's tram system, which transports visitors from the parking lot to the museum campus. A new propulsion system will allow the trams to carry more people per trip. The Welcome Hall and South Pavilion will also be modernized, with plans for expanded retail and dining offerings. During the closure, the Getty Villa in Malibu will remain open and host a selection of artworks from the main campus.

  • The Getty Center will close for renovations on March 15, 2026.
  • The renovations are expected to take approximately one year, with the museum planning to reopen in spring 2028.
  • The Getty's reopening is timed to coincide with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics.

The players

J. Paul Getty Trust

The non-profit organization that oversees the operations of the Getty Center and Getty Villa.

Tim Whalen

Vice president of institutional planning for the J. Paul Getty Trust, who announced the renovation plans.

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What they’re saying

“This new space will allow us to pursue some new types of activities, possibly even more cutting-edge than our spaces here allow us to pursue.”

— Tim Whalen, Vice president of institutional planning

“We're trying to improve the way visitors are received at the tram, and make it a much more welcoming, beautiful and art laden entry than we currently have.”

— Tim Whalen, Vice president of institutional planning

What’s next

The Getty Center will remain closed to the public for approximately one year while the renovations are completed. The museum plans to reopen in spring 2028, ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics.

The takeaway

The Getty Center's upcoming renovations demonstrate the institution's commitment to providing a world-class visitor experience and keeping pace with evolving expectations, especially as Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympics. These upgrades will help ensure the Getty remains a premier cultural destination for years to come.