TOP 30 Atlas obscura member in California

Located at 160 King Street in San Francisco, California, the 1852 South Beach Shoreline institution offers small-group adventures inspired by their Atlas of the world's most fascinating places. Delve into the stories behind iconic landmarks such as the Transamerica Pyramid and Oracle Park, built on massive landfills in what used to be underwater. Discover the history of San Francisco before the Gold Rush, when it was known as Yerba Buena, and learn about the transformation of the city from a quiet trading post to a bustling metropolis. Visit the plaque and outline of the 1852 coastline installed by the San Francisco Arts Commission, and explore the area opposite Oracle Park Stadium to experience the city's ever-changing shoreline. Join Atlas Obscura as a member to support their work in uncovering the world's hidden wonders and enjoy ad-free browsing of their fascinating stories.

Located at 5550 Cottle Road in San Jose, California, IBM's First West Coast Site holds a critical place in Silicon Valley's history. The site, which was tragically destroyed by a fire in 2008, is now marked by a small monument in a parking lot between a Lowe's and an AutoZone. This campus was once a hub of innovation, where engineers developed groundbreaking technologies like the "flying head" disc drive, paving the way for modern online processes. Notable muralist Lucienne Bloch's ceramic mosaics adorned the buildings, resembling computer punch cards, while the brick structures with glass windows connected by patios and walkways created a creative environment for employees. Even Soviet premier Nikita Khrushchev visited the campus in 1959, though he was reportedly more impressed by the cafeteria than the technology on display.

Located in Altadena, California, United States, Cobb Estate is a popular tourist attraction with a fascinating history. Originally built by lumber magnate Charles Cobb in 1918, the estate was surrounded by rumors of being haunted, despite no actual sightings of ghosts. After Cobb's death, the property was deeded to the Pasadena Masons and later became a retreat for the Sisters of St. Joseph. However, it wasn't until the Marx Brothers bought the estate in 1956 that stories of strange noises and lights began to circulate. The mansion was eventually torn down in 1959, and the land remained unused until 1971 when it was purchased by the city. Today, Cobb Estate is a well-known hiking destination, attracting outdoor enthusiasts who are not afraid of a possible ghostly encounter. The institution offers small-group adventures inspired by the Atlas of the world's most fascinating places, providing visitors with unique experiences and stories behind the locations they explore.

Discover the SS Dominator Shipwreck: A Unique Adventure in Palos Verdes Estates Embark on a captivating journey to explore the remnants of the SS Dominator, a Greek freighter whose storied past has become an intriguing tourist attraction nestled along the scenic cliffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Southern California. Located between Malaga Cove and Lunada Bay, this historic site offers a glimpse into a maritime tale that has fascinated visitors for decades.

Welcome to Li Po Cocktail Lounge Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown at 916 Grant Ave, Li Po Cocktail Lounge stands as a nostalgic beacon of the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Our bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a journey back in time to the golden era of Chinese nightclubs that once dotted the cityscape from the 1930s to the 1960s.