A few Sundays ago, we decided to soak up a little culture at the Getty Villa in Malibu. It was a gorgeous day, so we took the scenic route through Malibu Canyon, something every Angeleno (and visitor) should do at least once.
Instead of the ever packed freeway, this literally cuts through the mountains, taking you from the east side to the Westside around winding roads and through dark tunnels. If you are lucky enough to time it to sunset, the light is a spectacular vision as it hits the mountains from all angles. Such a show off, that sun.
The Canyon ends at the Pacific Coast Highway, so you can enjoy a little ocean scenery before you arrive at the Getty.
The Villa sits high on a hill, standing proud over the Pacific.
Inspired by the Villa of the Papyri in the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum, The Getty Villa was built by J.Paul Getty as a museum. Fact: Getty never actually visited this museum before his death.
Sure, this museum has an enormous collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities (blah blah blah), but you really come here for the Roman architecture. I love the Gods and Goddesses lounging on either end of the pool.
I don’t need to spend hours here. After a little stroll around the gardens, I’m ready to grab a glass of wine and a cheese plate on the terrace.
And I don’t feel guilty because admission is free. Just reserve a parking spot online in advance (parking is $15).
It’s possible I had more than one glass of wine. (Just kidding.)
A little wine, a little culture. All in all, the perfect afternoon date. Wouldn’t you say? 😉
The Urban Light Installation at LACMA
Getty Villa. 17985 Pacific Coast Highway. Pacific Palisades, CA. 310-440-7300
