Places Edited by Sandi Hemmerlein

The final resting place of one of Hollywood’s most prolific and talented actors is on the grounds of a California Mission.

These lush groves of fan palms rise up like oases out of southern California's Colorado Desert.

The decaying adobe remains of an old homestead are just off the beaten path in Joshua Tree National Park.

Hike amid the palm trees that thrive among Southern California's Indio Hills.

The shop's owner has spent decades in the desert wearing nothing but a strategically placed sock.

This restaurant's marvelous musical machines include a self-playing violin.

The world's largest outdoor organ is played weekly by one of just two civic organists in the U.S.

This historic estate on the east shore of Lake Tahoe was home to an eccentric millionaire (and his pet elephant, Mingo).

This distinctive Crescent City tradition dates back to the days of horse-drawn carriages.

The oldest structure in a beachside California city was built to serve eight students.

Hollywood's oldest hotel is the site of the first Academy Awards, the birthplace of Marilyn Monroe's career, and the home of Montgomery Clift's ghost.

These unusual houses look like giant boats that washed ashore on a residential street.

This peaceful garden is hidden on the grounds of a spiritual organization founded by a pioneer yogi.

L.A.'s oldest operating bowling alley is a beautifully restored homage to its speakeasy days.

Spend a day hanging out with domesticated Russian foxes.

In the middle of a remote desert town is a surprisingly opulent hotel.

For over 20 years, Lil Toot has delighted guests with narrated boat rides between Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Harbor, becoming a beloved local legend and top-rated experience for visitors.

Thousands of migrating monarchs overwinter clustered amongst the eucalyptus trees.

Along a California highway is a kind of Jurassic Park made of metal.

Rainbow-hued local gem in Venice.

You don't have to be a diplomat to visit the so-called Camp David of the West.

Fortune tellers, snake charmers, poets, and storytellers all gather on this historic square in Morocco.

Nevada's largest cactus collection stands outside a candy mogul's small factory.

A few iconic structures are all that remain of America’s first outdoor shopping mall.