The oldest U.S. Government building in California, and it's State Historic Landmark #1.

This municipal playground was co-created by the father of one of the most playful characters ever.

60 feet of towering steel balances gracefully.

A massive hydrovolcanic explosion left a half-mile wide crater in Death Valley.

This crumbling Death Valley mining complex was known for its use of giant, 20-mule team wagons.

A remote crossroads honoring a fallen talent.

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

At this deceptively beautiful beach, nothing is what it seems.

One of the most elaborate displays of Jellyfish is on display at the aquarium.

The oldest lighthouse on America's west coast no longer needs keepers, yet they maintain the site anyhow.

Its dark depths conceal millions of rare, delicate crystal formations.

An historic and oft-filmed spot for musclebound iron pumpers on the Pacific coast.

Legendary frontman of the Doors looms in this giant mural by famed Venice muralist, Rip Cronk.

The California capital city once stood 10 feet lower than it does today.

A sculpture of the famous photograph stands on San Diego's "Greatest Generation Walk."

Once America’s most beautiful army base, this abandoned military fort on the coast of Monterey Bay has been left to the elements.

Version of the French Riviera destroyed by the sea.

There are lots of hands and feet stamped in the cement in front of Grauman’s Chinese Theater, but Mel left behind something extra.

Before it was abandoned and left to rust alongside the road, this riverboat starred in a John Wayne movie.

Once close to extinction, there is no shortage of elephant seals on the beaches of Año Nuevo State Park.

This abandoned boat was left in place thanks to its rotting beauty.

Celebrating the transformation of trash into objects of beauty.

Millions of years of oxidation make a drive down this winding Death Valley road surprisingly colorful.

Travelers leave tea kettles in a remote part of Death Valley as part of a mysterious, decades-old tradition.