Neighborhood: Bel-Air
Update!!! As of Sept, the Fridays of the 405 series goes on hiatus until spring of 2009. Please read reader Melissa's helpful comment below about how the series will continue - she reports it is moving to Saturdays with an increase in parking fees ($10.00). Of course - always consult the website before making any plans. Thanks for your help Melissa!
Do you know the Getty? It’s the world-renowned museum nestled in the hills above the 405 and Sunset Blvd., overlooking the traffic congestion on the freeway below it. There’s much debate whether the structure itself is more interesting then the art it holds in its collection. No matter – the views of the city alone (on a clear day you can see downtown’s skyscrapers to the east and the ocean to the west) make it worth the (always free) admission. If Mom or Dad comes to town, it’s a must to bring them here. If you ever have a weekday off, it’s a great place to get lost in solo for a few hours.
My favorite event here? The monthly “Fridays off the 405” series. Sponsored by the local NPR station, KCRW, it gathers that station’s main demographic: the early 30’s, wine-sipping, artsy crowd (someone recently noted, quite a place for singles on the prowl, desperate to escape the standard bar scene). The night begins at 6pm, when the sun begins to set. The DJ (always different) spins a cocktail-hour appropriate, mellow techno selection. Sometimes a live band will take the stage. The museum’s restaurants remain open, and the bars temporarily set up in the courtyard begin serving up wine, beer and cocktails.
It’s a great way to start the weekend. Wandering through the Getty’s spectacular terraces with a glass of chardonnay on a warm summer’s eve is pretty close to perfection. If that’s not your thing, the art galleries remain open for exploring. In the main courtyard, crowds gather to talk and laugh. In the museum’s many enclaves, dates snuggle as they sip cocktails. And after the sun sets and the city’s lights twinkle from below you, a dance floor has been known to break out.
For some, this is just the beginning to an adventurous night ahead – that vibe is clearly in the air. And what doesn’t seem possible when the entire city is literally at your feet?
COST: Admission is free. Parking is $8.00 a car. Wine/beer bar $6.00 - $8.00
LINK: http://www.getty.edu/visit/events/fridays_405.html
Note: The “Fridays off the 405” goes on hiatus during the winter, so check the website for details.
