Getty Villa in Malibu, California

If you can't get to Italy but can get to Southern California, don't miss the Getty Villa in Malibu. Recently renovated and completely refurbished, the Getty Villa exclusively houses antiquities from Ancient Greece and Rome. The collections are just half of the attraction. The museum itself is an exact replica of the Villa of the Papyri in Herculaneum which was destroyed in the 79 CE eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. The Villa is decorated with exquisite marble floors, walls, decorative ceilings and immaculate gardens, all inspired by ancient Roman originals from around the Mediterranean. You have to make a reservation to visit the Villa, so be sure to call ahead at least a few weeks in advance. Go as soon as the doors open to avoid the crowds that will be sure to be there by mid-day.
Getty Villa