A little piece of Paris in the sultry south of the U.S.

This stretch of beach along California's central coast is a busy highway for the largest seal in the northern hemisphere.

A massive volcanic plug is now a protected area that hosts a number of bird species.

A hotel and restaurant serving as the mecca of kitsch.

One of the first skyscrapers in Santa Monica, and a famous getaway for the Hollywood elite of then and now.

A Looff creation in Santa Monica best described as “a California-Byzantine-Moorish-style fantasy.”

A second generation sun-powered marvel lights up the night.

A sign at the end of the Santa Monica Pier marks the traditional end of the legendary American highway.

California's own medieval Italian castle, authentic down to the 300-year-old iron maiden in the dungeon.

An enchanting tunnel of cypress trees leads to an old morse code station still used today.

One of the last remaining Carpenter Gothic churches is situated on a wildflower conservatory overlooking the bay.

Art Deco stylings conceal the true nature of this bridge.

Where the first "expert riders, willing to risk death daily" for the Pony Express were recruited.

The arch that celebrated the completion of the Lincoln and Victory highways.

Bill Murray bowled three straight strikes here at Reno's "Taj Mahal of Tenpins."

This beloved roadside attraction welcomes visitors with his signature neon smile.

Back in the day everyone who was anyone played this historic western theater.

These once-beautiful historic graveyards are set against the barren Virginia City hills.

A store that sells all manner of bones, insects, and animal curiosities.

Handmade treasures from around the world.

Julia Morgan's Moorish-Gothic labyrinth of fountains, trees, natural light and Oakland's notable dead.

Oakland's beautiful monumental cemetery.

Thousands of crosses and markers for soldiers who lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan blanket a California hillside.

This controversial depiction of the "Founder of California" looks as though it was sculpted from mashed potatoes.