As with many places I wind up adding to my bucket list, Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes – one of the southernmost points in Los Angeles – was inspired by posts I’d seen on social media. It’s a popular venue for weddings, but it’s open to the public every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. So one weekday morning, I drove down to the chapel to check it out.
I arrived right when the grounds opening, which turned out to be a good call because the chapel wasn’t swarming with people. (To be honest, though, I’m not sure how crowded it ever gets.) It was entirely empty for most of the time I was there, but outside, there were people working on the garden.
Prior to going to Wayfarers Chapel, I didn’t realize that it was in the National Register of Historic Places. It was completed in 1951 and stemmed from the idea of Elizabeth Schellenberg who was a member of the Swedenborgian Church (a Christian church). Elizabeth thought a chapel on a hillside could be a place that wayfarers could stop by to meditate, rest and thank God for creation. If you’re interested in reading more about the chapel’s history, click here.
Whether or not you’re looking for a wedding venue, Wayfarers Chapel is a place I’d recommend taking the time to drive to. Based on photos I’d seen floating all over the Internet, I was not disappointed. Photos definitely do this beautiful and charming chapel justice.
Even if you’re not there to take photos, it’s calming to sit in the chapel while sunlight pierces through the glass windows and creates an inspiring ambience, and observe the tall trees surrounding the structure. Right outside, there’s an amazing view of the ocean, so whether you’re inside or outside, the experience is peaceful.
Also worth noting is that parking and entrance to the chapel are free, which is pretty nice.
Lots of free parking!
I’m definitely planning on visiting Wayfarers Chapel again because it’s an experience worth having multiple times, though next time I’d like to do it without a camera or any social media documentation. It’s something worth indulging in 100 percent. More info about the chapel available on their website.