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

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

Centuries of crashing waves carved out this small hole in the rock, which lights up at certain parts of the year.

Life in this isolated, hilltop lighthouse was lonely, but it sure was lovely.

In the remote high desert of New Mexico, a strange array of poles beckon fury from above.

This cabin from the 1850s is one of the first structures built by Chinese immigrants in California.

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

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

This remarkably simple jail went over a century without an escape.

The stately birthplace of California's statehood.

A tree grown from astronaut seeds which were exposed to cosmic rays.

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

The oldest continuously operating church in California.

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

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

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.

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

Fake rail crossings mark the site of an influential doctor's demise.

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

Steinbeck's old stomping grounds, immortalized in Cannery Row.