A breathtaking 19th-century trail overlooks Lake Tahoe.

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

The museum is housed inside the historic 1863 Carson City Mint.

Decor at “Nevada’s Oldest Thirst Parlor” includes Raquel Welch's brassiere hanging from a stuffed moose head.

One woman's Viking Castle on Lake Tahoe.

His discovery kicked off the Gold Rush. One of the hands on this commemorative statue points to the spot where he found the precious metal.

This short-lived tea and silk farm is believed to be the first permanent Japanese settlement in North America.

Eclectic collection of dark and macabre antiques.

This museum looks at the history of one of America's most famous prisons and most beloved albums.

This former boomtown "island" is now submerged below Folsom Lake.

This 19th century hydroelectric powerhouse was the first of its kind.

A working miniature city designed to teach kids about safety and presumably city planning.

A fascinating and comprehensive look at the evolution of medical practice in the Sacramento Valley since the mid-1800s.

A mesmerizing disco ball-like sculpture along the Sacramento River Walk.

Art Deco stylings conceal the true nature of this bridge.

A replica of the first public theater built in California.

I Street Bridge is the heaviest swinging center bridge in the United States.

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

This 19th century train workshop is a treasure trove of railroad history.

The California capital city once stood 10 feet lower than it does today.

This 15-story mural celebrates the 50th anniversary of the musician's iconic "At Folsom Prison" album.

At this 1940s-era neighborhood favorite, you can still drink a cherry phosphate.

The capitol city's oldest existing cemetery.

Puzzling...this tree looks like an assemblage of dismembered monkey limbs.