When a friend of mine introduced me to Geographer a few months back, I took it in stride that I would never get to see the indie-rock band live. That was until I found out about the J. Paul Getty Museum’s public program, called “Saturdays off the 405.” The popular program, introduces “undiscovered” bands for free at the Getty Center’s Los Angeles location.

“Saturdays off the 405” is such a unique experience in that it combines a concert vibe with the educational and spirited ambience of the historical Getty Museum. Like its other location – the Getty Villa in Malibu, California – the Getty’s Los Angeles center provides hours and hours of enjoyment by offering sculptures, paintings, gardens, and other forms of art, both visual and audio. 

Indeed, more than two hours before the band was set to perform at the venue, the Getty parking lot was already filled with those interested in the museum and those, like myself, who were interested in seeing Geographer play. The off-site parking was just as amped, and there were droves of people walking, almost rushing, it seemed, to make it into the line for the Getty Museum’s shuttle, a free service that takes visitors up to the museum itself.

To this end, the Getty does inform those who wish to take part in the “Saturdays off the 405” experience to avoid the crowds by arriving early. By doing so, you can have a day of visiting galleries, checking out the new and rotating exhibits as well as enjoying a free concert.

I did manage to make it in a perfect amount of time to stake out the grounds and see where the best view of the stage would be. I noticed that there were many families with blankets, picnic baskets and children in tow. At the same time, there were various groups of young, old, trendy, and happy individuals. Children ran around while mothers talked and sipped drinks. Everyone, it seemed, was so excited and overjoyed to be out in the beautiful Southern California weather.

And what a storm it was! The stage lights greeted the crowd and the DJ, who plays both before and after the main performer, and in this case was DJ Mario Cotto, began pumping up the crowd.

After a while it was time for what we had all descended upon the Getty Museum for: the earth-shattering sounds of Geographer! And the band did not disappoint. From vocalist Michael Deni’s hauntingly breathtaking notes and fantastic stage presence to Nathan Blaz and Brian Ostreic’s ridiculously impressive use of the cello, drums and synthesizers, the band put on one of the most energetic and engaging shows that I’ve seen this summer. 

The crowd swooned, clapped and danced enthusiastically to beat after beat and sound after edifying sound. With favorite songs being played, such as “Blinders” and “Kites,” the crowd would swell up and roar in approval; there were countless people, like myself, singing along with the lyrics, while others simply hummed or moved in time to the undeniable beauty of Geographer’s audible art, that overwhelming presence of words set to music and the countless meanings that these words must have held for many of those present that night.

When all was said and done, the concert was the perfect end to the night, and the perfect way to remind me of all the various activities that Southern California has to offer, activities that many people travel a long way just to take part in.

The post Local Trips: The J. Paul Getty Museum’s “Saturdays off the 405!” appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The iconic Hotel Del Coronado, designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1977, stands upon the equally iconic shores of Coronado Island like a lighthouse calling tourists into port. This mainstay of San Diego tourism is a sought after destination for many reasons, one of which is the fact that author L. Frank Baum wrote at least three books from the Oz series while staying at the hotel repeatedly between 1904 and 1910. Additionally, it has been suggested that Baum modeled the fictional Emerald City – where Dorothy travels to meet the Wizard of Oz – from the wonderfully picturesque Hotel Del Coronado.

Having officially opened its doors in 1888, The Del celebrates its 125th birthday this year with a variety of events planned to commemorate this singularly wonderful milestone in the hotel’s remarkable history. Be sure to check the hotel’s website for a number of events that will continue through the holiday season. One of the most noteworthy events to take place this year was the release of a 208-page history book, Hotel del Coronado History. The book includes over 440 stunning pictures, many of which have yet to ever make print before, and can be purchased on the hotel’s website!

There is still time to book a stay at the Hotel Del Coronado with the 125th Anniversary Package. The package includes accommodations, a copy of the above-mentioned history book and two 125th anniversary signature cocktails at Babcock and Story, the hotel’s sports bar with a seaside setting! 

Also known as the B&S Bar, this famous watering hole still features the original 46-foot handcrafted mahogany bar that was brought from Philadelphia – around Cape Horn – in 1888!  

In addition to the enticing selection of accommodation packages, The Del offers guests a number of accommodation types to ensure optimal rest and relaxation while on vacation in San Diego. The hotel has 679 rooms spread out in three separate and distinct buildings, the Victorian Building, Ocean Towers and the poolside California Cabana, as well as 78 cottages and villas that comprise the secluded Beach Village.

The guest rooms range in size from small to extra-large and come with different views, starting with a limited view and moving all the way up to full oceanfront view. The Victorian guest rooms located in the Victorian Building are without an oceanfront view. The rooms are all distinct in size and shape and come with a queen-size bed. With their soothing colors and beautiful fabrics, the hotel likens these guest rooms to an “elegant beach bungalow.” The Resort guest rooms, located in the Ocean Towers, California Cabana, as well as some in the Victorian Building, are perfect for those traveling with families! At an additional cost, guests can request a Resort room with a partial or full oceanfront view as well.

For a truly rewarding experience, try booking a stay in one of Hotel Del Coronado’s suites. Keep in mind that not all of The Del’s suites can be booked online. For full availability, be sure to call 855-268-1219. Similar to the guest rooms, the suites range both in size and view (from limited view to full oceanfront view). The Junior Suites feature a sitting area in addition to the larger room, while the Victorian, Resort and Signature Suites all feature completely separate living and bedroom areas! One of the most family-friendly suites at the resort is the Blue Octopus Family Suite. This unique suite features a living area, master king bedroom and an ocean-inspired kids bedroom. Children will love this bedroom, from the bunk beds and bean bag chairs to the toy chest filled with goodies and the video games!

If you happen to be looking for the perfect romantic getaway or a truly memorable luxury vacation, try the villas and cottages at Beach Village. The Beach Village has its share of packages and specials as well, including one for the 125th anniversary celebration. Be sure to check out the full range of possibilities that the Beach Village offers, from pure Southern California seclusion to your very own personal service at the hands of The Del, where industry accolades and award-winning prestige blend harmoniously with the red-shingled beauty of the resort.

Whether you enjoy the elegant respite of the amazingly refined guest rooms and suites or sample the luxurious seclusion of Beach Village’s villas and cottages, the amenities offered by The Del, such as the hotel’s dining and spa services, are accessible for all hotel guests.

Spa at The Del is truly a mini-vacation of indulgence in itself. From the relaxation areas offered for both men and women, 21 state-of-the-art treatment rooms, hydrotherapy tubs and steam rooms, guests can make a day out of pampering and cleansing themselves with the ocean-inspired massages, scrubs, body wraps and facials offered by Spa at The Del. You can request an appointment online, or call 619-522-8100, or simply email the spa at spareservations@hotdel.com after perusing the full spa and salon menu. 

As far as dining is concerned, the Hotel Del Coronado offers guests a number of dining experiences that are sure to excite the palate! Be sure to visit the hotel’s website for a full list of dining options and to make reservations!

One of the most rewarding experiences at The Del is dining at Sheerwater, the hotel’s oceanfront restaurant. The restaurant has a generous outdoor dining area – complete with heat lamps – with gorgeous views of Coronado Beach and the hotel’s colorful gardens. If at all possible, try reserving a table outdoors in time to watch a spectacular sunset over the Pacific Ocean as you partake in the delectable “Fish by the Sea” menu. Ruben, one of the many amazing waiters on staff, will be sure to make your dining experience the stuff of legend! Start with the Field Greens, a salad that includes heirloom tomatoes, feta cheese, pine nuts, red onion, and lemon vinaigrette. From there, try one of the delicious entrees, such as the Chilean Sea Bass in lobster sauce, which is unparalleled, and accompanied by butternut squash risotto and oyster mushrooms. The asparagus drizzled in lemon olive oil makes for an amazing side dish as well! Pair this with, say, the Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley and you have a meal fit for a king.

The great thing about the menus at Sheerwater is that there is something for everyone. Whether you crave fish, filet mignon or a classic burger, Sheerwater offers it and adds a touch of remarkable savoir faire to each and every aspect of the meal. Additionally, many of the items on the menu can be prepared gluten-free for those with allergies or sensitivities. The restaurant even boasts an impressive kids menu where traditional items, such as pizzas, mac & cheese, cheeseburgers and hotdogs are served alongside rice bowls with organic brown rice, noodles with butter and fish & chips. The Sheerwater staff, including Michael and Eric, goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that every guest is having both a memorable and pleasurable experience. This dedicated attention to service makes vacation dining at Sheerwater a delight par excellence!    

Other sensational places to dine are 1500 Ocean, which combines the coastal ingredients of California with Mediterranean (Italy, Morocco and France) flavors. Also, the outdoor Sunset Bar is not to be missed; it offers ocean views and fireside cocktails. The expansive wine list highlights local vintners.

ENO Pizzeria and Wine Bar offers guests a truly unique experience in food and wine tasting. The pizzeria crafts both traditional pizzas, such as Margherita and Funghi, with signature pizzas, such as the Giardino Fresco, made with grilled asparagus, roasted red peppers and ricotta, from its outdoor wood-fired oven. In addition to the artisan pizzas, ENO also offers artisan cheese, boutique wines, local craft beers, exotic chocolate and charcuterie. Try the signature dessert, which is Butterscotch Pudding, served with Biscotti and topped with sea salt!

So what are you waiting for? Now is your chance to be a part of Southern California’s rich and diverse history by booking your next stay at the impressive Hotel Del Coronado!

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