A common entry point to the Griffith Observatory trail holds its own wonders.

This nondescript tunnel has been featured in a number of iconic movies, from “Roger Rabbit” to “Back to the Future.”

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

The beautiful behemoth is one of the largest trees of its kind in the United States.

At 130 years old and 126 feet tall, it is the largest known example of the rare Torrey pine tree.

Happy harbor seals frolic and snooze on this warm, sandy stretch of coast.

Inky sludge oozes to the surface of this beach thanks to a rare natural tar seep.

This quirky UFO-shaped curiosity is often mistaken for the airport’s control tower.

You don't want to get caught in this trap--or do you?

A glittering South Asian anomaly in a wealthy Los Angeles suburb.

In one Santa Monica parking lot a mushroom cloud made of chains heralds a message of peace.

A treasure hunter's tiny bar, harboring celebrities since 1959.

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

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

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

The private clubhouse for the members of the Academy of Magical Arts.

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.

There are lots of hands and feet stamped in the cement in front of Grauman’s Chinese Theater, but Mel left behind something extra.

This Hollywood dive houses a mural painted by the artists who animated its namesake film.

The decor of this Hollywood movie palace just barely predated the opening of King Tut's tomb.

This star-studded Old Hollywood restaurant is where fettuccine Alfredo made its United States debut.

A prohibition-style speakeasy takes up residence in the last Victorian residence in Hollywood.

The three biggest silent film stars once shot iconic scenes here.

This bank is widely believed to be the inspiration for the offices of Philip Marlowe, the hardboiled detective featured in a number of Raymond Chandler's stories.