This nonsensical smiling boat shuttles passengers between two places they could've easily walked between.

A simple statue outside a California Amtrak station honors the overlooked contributions of the "silent spikes."

The restored estate of a wealthy rancher was once at the heart of an unprecedented legal victory.

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

An extraordinary final resting place full of oversized art, amazing statues, and dead celebrities.

A modern day curiosity cabinet.

One of the richest places in the United States has a cursed street.

World's largest collection of serial killer artwork and other macabre exhibits.

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

This iconic L.A. bookshop is housed in an abandoned bank—both symbolic and chic.

Historic funicular railway, believed to be the shortest railroad in the world.

The world's first motel is now an administrative building for an apple farm.

Crypt mausoleum in cathedral's basement contains relics of third century Roman martyr, Saint Vibiana.

A 1950s Googie burger stand is now a Los Angeles landmark.

Large but largely ignored, these 42 life-size Liberty Bell replicas were a peculiar, unexplained feature on the facade of a Macy's department store.

A cow in the road might subvert the flow of traffic but this one's above it all, quite literally.

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.

From sax to spuds, get 'em all at this landmark music establishment.

The programmatic glory of LA's giant whiskey barrel building has become an upscale reminder of the city's kitschy roadside past.

One of the world's longest murals depicts the history of diversity in Los Angeles.

This traditional garden in the San Fernando Valley doubled for Star Fleet Academy, and is irrigated entirely by wastewater.

The last orange grove of the San Fernando Valley is owned and protected by CSU Northridge.

Come crisp December nights, this fairly plain neighborhood becomes a holiday dream world.