This controversial depiction of the "Founder of California" looks as though it was sculpted from mashed potatoes.

This giant shopping mall still holds signs of its automotive past.

A quiet nook at the top of a little-known hilltop park named after California's first poet laureate.

Perfect your fly fishing technique on their practice ponds.

A chain of bells connect the California Missions and honor the legend of the "King’s Highway."

A natural dome made of volcanic glass in Inyo National Forest.

Guarded by the Angel of Grief, the Stanford family tomb attracts an odd mix of halloween revelry and somber contemplation.

One poet's handmade, anachronistic home.

This ultra-modern California span is actually a titanic solar clock in disguise built by famed architect Santiago Calatrava.

The neighborhood church casts a breast-shaped shadow that locals have come to call the “two o’clock titty.”

Shoot for par over the bodies of the dead on this cemetery-cum-golf course.

Hiding amid the largest camellia collection in the country lies a charming children's maze, donated by a secret admirer.

The best place in the park to test out your throwing arm.

The second building of its name to occupy this location might be the finest flatiron building in San Francisco.

San Francisco's first World's Fair, dedicated to the wonders of California.

Concrete strongholds stand guard over the Golden Gate.

A massive ultra-modern church presents a science-fiction view of Catholicism's inclusive future.

A massive volcanic plug is now a protected area that hosts a number of bird species.

Southern California’s Theme Park Beginnings.

Only hotel where you can legally launder money.

L. Frank Baum wrote part of the "Wizard of Oz" series in this wooden Victorian beach resort.

Two mammoth statues inspired by equally tall tales lure tourists to this roadside attraction.

A glimpse into the lives of the the Miwok and Paiute people in Yosemite National Park.

An elaborate gift from Claus Spreckels is now a piece of San Francisco history.