Home to the "Circus" trees created by Axel Erlandson.

Concrete strongholds stand guard over the Golden Gate.

Historic funicular railway, believed to be the shortest railroad in the world.

The fossilized remains of ancient California redwoods.

Oldest building in California still in use.

San Francisco's first World's Fair, dedicated to the wonders of California.

An artsy hidden staircase leads to breathtaking views of San Francisco.

A man-made island in scenic San Francisco Bay.

An enormous illuminated figure dances on the Las Vegas strip.

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

This private residence was the template for one of the most beloved television homes of all time.

This giant shopping mall still holds signs of its automotive past.

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

San Francisco's newly reopened hands-on science museum.

The last remaining relic of San Francisco's glittering 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition.

A giant can of fruit cocktail is all that remains of what was once the world's largest cannery.

This concrete tangle of square pipes has stood as a proud thorn in the city's side since the '70s.

California's own majestic geyser is powered by a subterranean volcano.

A pair of pure white felines guard the entrance to a spot of California real estate established as an artist's haven.

One of the largest free-standing structures ever built, this dirigible hangar is now simply a giant skeleton.

A peculiar mansion built by the troubled heir to the Winchester Rifle Company fortune.

An extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and mummies.

Historical trolley restoration and operation at History San Jose, Kelly Park.

A giant chess set, minus the psychedelic drug trip.