Harden Gatehouse - Portuguese Point historical plaque inscription:Edward Walker Harden married Ruth Isabel Vanderlip in 1903, in Chicago. They built the gatehouse, as it stands today, in 1926. Gordon Kaufmann was the architect, and the Olmsted Brothers designed the landscaping.This imposing structure is of Tuscan design. The planned villa was not built due to the 1929 stock market disaster.1.94 acres remain and command one of the most beautiful ocean views on the peninsula.Plaque installed in 1990 by Rancho Palos Verdes Historical Society.Note:Architect Gordon Kaufmann also worked on Hoover Dam, the Los Angeles Times building, and Santa Anita Racetrack.Landscape designer Frederick Law Olmsted also worked on New York’s Central Park, the National Mall in the nation’s capital, and helped create the National Park System.In the classic movie Its a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, this was the location of the crisscrossed palm trees forming a big “W”.In 2014, new owners announced plans to create Heritage Castle Museum. Six years later, plans were still underway.

Definitely the final, and best stop along the PCH for Mad Mad Mad Mad World filming locations. Since the property is not open to the public, you can park in Abalone Cove and get pretty close without trespassing to view the site in greater detail. I’m pretty sure the owners made the estate a mostly private museum for tax benefit, although a couple locals said they’re awesome people.

Closed to the public. They should remove the name Museum

The most incredible staff. The room was very comfortable... had an office area separate from the bedroom. Worked out perfect for my business trip. Not sure of all the amenities outside of the room but I dont think you will be disappointed.

The Palos Verdes Heritage Museum Castle was once the setting for the classic film its a mad mad mad mad world. The entrance to the park was filmed here at the front Gates and the Big W palm trees were inside. Unfortunately the trees no longer exist. Its still a very cool place and its worth the drive down the coast to check it out.

A great place for a party!!!

Beautiful view.

Not sure why it’s called a museum since it doesn’t appear to be open to public.

Beautiful views!