Jail from the 19th century that was built by inmates.

A mining town, now abandoned, was built in a canyon so narrow that the railroad ran right through the hotel lobby.

A unique museum where guests can rent and operate a locomotive.

This historic aviation building is now a museum owned and operated by Disney.

"You don't need a rocket scientist to build a steam engine, but we've got one." -Museum docent on the credentials of a restoration volunteer.

This old-world mansion with lush gardens is a gem in the heart of Silicon Valley.

The echoes of a railroad town that solemnly mark the end of the line.

The remnants of an early automobile route across shifting sand dunes can still be found in the deserts of Southern California.

Malibu's first beach home features an astonishing trove of ceramic tiles.

A Tibetan Temple and Buddhist organization just off the beaten path in Northern California.

Catch a glimpse of the elusive Peninsular bighorns right off of the desert freeway.

This hidden fire lookout offers spectacular views of Sequoia National Park.

Everything you always wanted to know about borates is here.

This ramshackle ghost town is comprised of mining-era buildings collected from around the region.

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

Spend a day hanging out with domesticated Russian foxes.

This rock formation named for its unique shape is one of many that call the Alabama Hills home.

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

The beauty and the beast of hydraulic mining is on full display at this California Historic State Park.

This historic tower in the California desert promises visitors a "vortex of good vibes".

The southernmost outpost of the Russian Empire in colonial America.

The former Naval shipyard is open for exploring - mostly.

Burping, gurgling geothermal mud pots by the Salton Sea.

A popular winter vacation destination for migrating monarch butterflies.