The L.A. Zoo has a secret garden of rare bootleg cycads, a palm specimen dating back 280 million years.

After starting as a whimsical tourist attraction that eventually found its way to ruin, these renovated canals offer a lush and exotic locale on the Pacific Coast.

Hollywood's most famous landmark, the "temporary" sign that has stood for decades longer than intended.

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

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

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

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."

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Overlooked by many, the two famous Scottish warriors guard the main gate of Edinburgh Castle.

The final resting place of soldiers' loyal canine companions.

Near the former site of numerous witch burnings, this lavish Edinburgh mainstay pays homage to Scotland's brutal history.

This bar is home to what's likely the oldest living jazz band in the world.

The once highest point in China blends symbolic design with a kick of adrenaline.

Taoism, Buddhist and Confucianism are all represented in this temple that claims to answer anyone's wishes.

The world's longest outdoor covered escalator system transports commuters through Hong Kong's hilly terrain.

Climb to the top of the world's largest seated bronze Buddha.