After starting as a whimsical tourist attraction that eventually found its way to ruin, these renovated canals offer a lush and exotic locale on the Pacific Coast.

This grand mansion has starred in everything from Bones to Buffy.

A faux European lane smack dab in downtown L.A.

The programmatic glory of LA's giant whiskey barrel building has become an upscale reminder of the city's kitschy roadside past.

Magical-looking cottages that inspired one of the most famous animated films ever.

A spiritual retreat in the heart of Los Angeles offers stunning gardens and a labyrinth to lose yourself in.

Scores of vintage street lamps shine along L.A.’s Miracle Mile.

This serene oasis in an affluent Los Angeles neighborhood holds some of Gandhi's ashes and got Elvis into Eastern Philosophy.

Established in the '60s, a family-owned tropical drink bar founded by Ray Buhen, bartender to the stars.

The private clubhouse for the members of the Academy of Magical Arts.

A castle that was built stone by stone by an eccentric journalist.

Rainbow-hued local gem in Venice.

A prohibition-style speakeasy takes up residence in the last Victorian residence in Hollywood.

This weird abode has inspired everything from the "House On Haunted Hil" to a robot hunter's pad.

Hollywood's most famous landmark, the "temporary" sign that has stood for decades longer than intended.

Hidden in the hills of Hollywood, this secluded Oz-themed garden is dotted with dozens of thrones.

Giant Redwood-themed cafeteria operates under the golden rule, "Dine Free Unless Delighted."

One man's homage to the sun continues to grow like a glass fractal.

The abandoned zoo enclosures offer a perfect place to experience the other side of the bars.

One of the oldest used bookstores in the U.S. has been selling antiquarian treasures since 1825.

This popular Boston haunt is reminiscent of a time gone by, when slow cafes and sweet-smelling smoke wafting from patios was the norm.

Each August, one of the largest religious (and food) celebrations in the country is held in Boston.

Large Massachusetts museum dedicated to Armenian history and culture.

An alley way dedicated to graffiti and street art is a constantly changing street gallery.