"Only the devil could play golf here."

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

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

The first safe in this California town had to hold all the gold.

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

Every year, over 25,000 monarchs overwinter in Pacific Grove.

Two rocks in a perpetual kiss and one of "the most romantic spot in America."

It's not your typical library, memorial, or book store.

Offering commanding views of the California coastline, this restaurant was a hub for the artists and bohemians of Big Sur.

Eight huge lanterns lining a city street can change color on command.

Anyone can control this glittery light installation with just a phone call.

It took years to decode its mysterious messages.

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

A statue commemorate Tommie Smith and John Carlos's brave protest at the 1968 Olympics, a watershed moment for civil rights.

The largest permanent Monopoly board makes one of the longest games even bigger.

A giant chess set, minus the psychedelic drug trip.

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

An extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and mummies.

A life-sized mammoth sculpture marks the spot where the remains of a Columbian mammoth were discovered in 2005.

A peculiar mansion built by the troubled heir to the Winchester Rifle Company fortune.

Hopeless romantics will swoon over the sweet story behind this bright and colorful home.

This eagle-topped spire remembers the military commander who snatched up California for the United States.

The oldest continuously operating church in California.