An old whaling station now serves to give the public a look at the commercial whaling industry, no longer a part of Monterey's economy.

The blinking light atop the iconic landmark has been sending secret messages for decades.

This 19th century train workshop is a treasure trove of railroad history.

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

It is locally loved and ridiculed for literally looking like poop.

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

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

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

Prone to disastrous fires, the city of San Francisco has the Guardian, a fireboat gifted by residents, to watch over them from the bay.

Only hotel where you can legally launder money.

This enormous World War II relic is one of the largest wooden structures in the world.

A pair of pure white felines guard the entrance to a spot of California real estate established as an artist's haven.

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

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

Oakland's beautiful monumental cemetery.

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

The key to turning shifting dunes into the green oasis of Golden Gate Park.

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

One of the largest free-standing structures ever built, this dirigible hangar is now simply a giant skeleton.

The headquarters of a secretive order is also a beautifully-designed park.

This Oakland fairytale kingdom, fiercely devoted to childlike whimsy, was an early inspiration for Disneyland.

From the sky, a kaleidoscope of color brightens the grey landscape of the San Francisco Bay.

A burnt orange monolithic dome structure perched on a hillside near Interstate 280.

The interior of the Overlook Hotel in "The Shining" was based on this Yosemite original.