LOS ANGELES (KABC) — One of the most iconic attractions in Los Angeles is closing its doors temporarily.
The Getty Center says it is undertaking the most significant modernization project since the museum opened in 1997.
“When it was being built, it was just tremendous excitement. It felt so bold, big, innovative, beautiful and majestic,” CEO and President of the J. Paul Getty Trust Katherine Fleming said.
When the Getty announced a one-year closure, some people were disappointed.
“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, who is visiting from South Korea, said.
The closure is set to take place on March 15, 2027, and will reopen in spring 2028.
The project is set to elevate the overall visitor experience and enhance accessibility.
“You can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs. We don’t love the idea of closing down a facility that we regard as being owned by people who come to it, but the only way we can take this stuff on is if we go offline. We hope everyone thinks it looks fabulous when it comes back,” Fleming said.
Museum officials say it was time for an upgrade. The facility is 30 years old.
Visitors can expect everything from upgrades to the tram system and HVAC systems to a new welcome center and new gallery experiences.
“How do we position things in a way that they get the attention they deserve, but there aren’t bottlenecks? Or items in a cul-de-sac that people can’t get to, so it’s really giving us the opportunity to take a look at all of that and configure the galleries in a way that will put the objects in maximum display,” Flemings added.
Getty will continue to collaborate on programs with partners during the closure.
The Getty Villa will remain open.
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