A Romanesque sanctuary of calm amid the bustle of downtown Los Angeles.

These six walrus head statues harken back to a time when this area wasn't far from the oceanfront.

Eight huge lanterns lining a city street can change color on command.

Art Deco stylings conceal the true nature of this bridge.

It took years to decode its mysterious messages.

Tucked away behind an unassuming set of shops is a must-see series of stunning murals.

This 252 step staircase offers stunning views of San Jose.

Anyone can control this glittery light installation with just a phone call.

The world’s first stop-motion film was created on the racetrack outside this building.

One of the largest Marian shrines on the West Coast stands rather unexpectedly in Silicon Valley.

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

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

The oldest Naval cemetery on the West Coast.

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

The Flatiron Building's storied West Coast cousin is a lot more into religion.

This small monument to the great inventor contains a time capsule and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

A unique market that brings together various goods and cultures.

A plaque outside the San Jose airport commemorates the insect's arrival to the West Coast.

An art collective teaching the more fiery, metal-y art forms.

A unique piece of graffiti offers a little slice of local history and mystery.

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

Guarded by the Angel of Grief, the Stanford family tomb attracts an odd mix of halloween revelry and somber contemplation.

This subtle Berkeley paving stone actually marks off a lawless tube of air that extends into space.

A remote crossroads honoring a fallen talent.