A Visit to the Getty Villa

The Getty Villa.

Recently, the three kids and I made a trip to the Getty Villa. Now, I know what you are thinking – I must be crazy to do that alone. And yes, I am not claiming to be the most rational person out there but I had a sneaking suspicion this little cultural adventure would turn out well.

Besides, the boys had the day off school and I didn’t have anyone to watch my baby girl so I needed to find something that would work for all of us that did not involve staying home and watching my house get torn apart, or going to the park where I would go down the slide 100 times since Elle cannot yet do this by herself.  No thank you, and no thank you!

So after considering the alternatives, a visit to the Getty Villa, even if a total failure, would still be better than the above scenarios or by default a movie marathon. Plus, we only live about 20 minutes away so it wouldn’t be an all day commitment… not that that would have necessarily stopped me and don’t let it stop you.

I hadn’t even planned on going there until the morning of when I woke up and realized I needed to figure out how to entertain these wild ones for the day. The idea of The Getty Villa had been in the back of my head since seeing recent photos, so I thought why not check it out. Fortunately, I was still able to get tickets online for 10:30am (tickets were free but you do have to pay for parking) so we got ready and off we went.

As soon as we arrived I could tell this would be fun! All of the outdoor architecture and gardens are made for such fun exploring for the kiddos. Plus, The Getty Villa hands out pamphlets where the kids get to be “Art Detectives.” Genius! What kid doesn’t love having a mission?

Be a Getty Villa Art Detective.

Checking out the Herb Garden.

Admiring the Fall leaves.

So off we went on the most “beautiful hunt” I have ever been on. And when we had found everything we needed it was just in time for a snack and then to head home. But not before a stop by the souvenir store where each child picked out a little something to remember their visit by. Here is what they picked: A copy of an ancient wood pig rattle, a flashlight with “Getty Villa” written on it and a 500 page book called “The Art Book.” Can you guess who picked what?

The most beautiful hunt.

At the Outer Peristyle Garden: A race must happen no matter where we are.

The three amigos.

Everything about this walkway is perfect.

I would like to believe they are admiring the artist’s work.

And before you are overly impressed by my almost 7 year-old son wanting an elaborate art book, I must tell you that he spent the car ride home laughing at the nude portraits… as to be expected. In fact, his innocent questions and observations were so funny we were all laughing.

The East Garden: Known as the most peaceful part of the ancient Roman home… Until we got there.

Stunning mosaic fountain at the East Garden.

So for those of you looking for something fun and cultural to do with your kids, I highly recommend a visit to The Getty Villa. For those of you that don’t live close by, make a day of it by heading to the Malibu Country Mart or one of the famous restaurants along PCH like, Moonshadows. And if you do (or have gone) please share below your experience. I would love to hear it! Happy Saturday! xx

The Outdoor Classical Theater: The performers bust a move.

Elle was the audience.

These little tourists were hungry for a snack.