A Mysterious Masonic tomb in San Luis Obispo.

The sea once considered an ecological wasteland is now called "crown jewel of avian biodiversity" by scientists.

Machinery left over from California's once thriving mercury industry now attracts artists and explorers.

These millipedes glow not out of attraction, but as a not-too-subtle warning.

This abandoned Navy base was transformed into an off-grid alternative living community for thousands of people.

A hand-built folk art installation covered with messages of God's love.

Millions of years of oxidation make a drive down this winding Death Valley road surprisingly colorful.

The lowest point in North America is home to an undrinkable pool surrounded by fields of geometric salt flats.

In the middle of the desert, miles from any human life, sat an anomalous pay phone that still magically answers your calls.

This sculpture garden in Death Valley makes you feel like you've slipped into some alternate reality.

A volcanic tunnel illuminated by natural skylights offers a shaded respite from the desert sun.

The largest dune field in the Mojave offers a chance of hearing the 'singing sands.'

Every weekend, people gather here for a brief chance to see their loved ones on the other side of the United States–Mexico border.

The Zalud family experienced a number of tragedies in one decade, giving rise to rumors that the 19th century house is haunted.

This dormant volcanic crater has been converted from a roiling pit of magma to a pleasant hiking spot.

A remote desert lookout offers unparalleled views of the California badlands for those who brave the trek.

The abandoned personal amusement park of the King of Pop.

A former utopian healing center created by a huckster and built by derelicts.

The location of the last stand of Charles Manson's doomsday cult.

A museum dedicated to a sea that should have never been.

A sculpture of the famous photograph stands on San Diego's "Greatest Generation Walk."

Swarms of butterflies cannot compare to the awe inspired by the publicly-funded nakedness once displayed in this sunken garden.

The freeway that never was.

An extraordinarily ornate museum in San Diego holds wondrous anthropological treasures.