L.A.'s oldest operating bowling alley is a beautifully restored homage to its speakeasy days.

A faux European lane smack dab in downtown L.A.

A look into the Church of Scientology's deeply unfavorable view of psychiatry.

This iconic L.A. bookshop is housed in an abandoned bank—both symbolic and chic.

Gouged in the mountain to make stage coach access easier through the Fremont Pass.

This Southern Californian Conservation Center is home to singing and howling apes.

This centerpiece of the Hollywood & Highland shopping center is a recreation of a long-lost movie set.

Hollywood's oldest hotel is the site of the first Academy Awards, the birthplace of Marilyn Monroe's career, and the home of Montgomery Clift's ghost.

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

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

This glamorous old building is said to have inspired the Tower of Terror.

Giant Redwood-themed cafeteria operates under the golden rule, "Dine Free Unless Delighted."

Step inside the first house designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, considered to be one of the first Art Nouveau buildings.

Over a million items cram the shelves at Africa's largest shop of used and rare books.

The abandoned funicular tunnel was a secret base for the BBC during World War II.

The Bristol Camera Obscura housed in an ancient windmill.

Just like in Hollywood, Madrid has also a forgotten walk of fame.

This funky former tobacco factory is one of the most striking examples of Madrid's cultural diversity.

Giant topiary dog once played a role in a terrorist bomb plot.

This 19th-century fountain's namesake animal isn't what you think it is.

This lucky bronze frog was gifted to Madrid by a casino.

This amazing abuela became a diehard metal fan late in life and an icon of Madrid's '80s rock scene.

For decades, Puerta del Sol has been illuminated by a giant, guitar-wielding bottle of sherry.

A rare set of strings by famed instrument maker Antonio Stradivarius is on display in the Royal Palace.