TOP 30 Worlds most fascinating places in California

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 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 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.

Welcome to St. Aloysius Catholic Cemetery, a serene resting place located at 23105 Shoreline Highway, Point Arena, California. This sacred ground offers a peaceful final resting place for loved ones, with the tranquil beauty of the ocean bluff and magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean providing a comforting backdrop. Our cemetery is part of the Blessed Sacrament Mission Church, a small but vibrant community dedicated to serving the spiritual needs of our Catholic congregation and visitors alike. We warmly welcome all who visit the Mendocino Coast to join us in our Masses and experience the heartfelt hospitality of our parish.

Welcome to Sea Lion Overlook, a serene park nestled in the heart of Inverness, California, at 16375 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Situated within the breathtaking landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore, our park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich diversity of wildlife and natural beauty that this unique region has to offer. At Sea Lion Overlook, nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike can experience the wonders of the wild. From December through March, witness the fascinating behavior of elephant seals at the nearby Elephant Seal Overlook, where these majestic marine mammals gather to breed and raise their young. Listen to the distinctive calls of the seals and observe their interactions in their natural habitat.

Peanuts Statue - Snorkeling Brown: A Unique Tribute to Charles M. Schulz in Bodega Bay Nestled in the scenic town of Bodega Bay, California, at 595 California 1, you'll find the enchanting tourist attraction, Peanuts Statue - Snorkeling Brown. This whimsical installation pays homage to the beloved Peanuts comic strip, created by the legendary cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, who called Sonoma County his home for over three decades.

Welcome to Van Eck Old Growth Redwood, a cherished family-owned business nestled in the heart of Aptos, California. Located at 505 Aptos Creek Road, our legacy is deeply intertwined with the rich history of the area. Our roots trace back to the illustrious Mangels Ranch, once part of a sprawling 550-acre estate, home to generations of the Mangels, Tillmann, and van Eck families. Our story begins with Claus Mangels, an early pioneer whose vision and partnership with Claus Spreckels, the renowned "Sugar King," shaped the community we love today. This land has witnessed the joys of family gatherings, the laughter of children playing, and the timeless beauty of nature. It is here that Agnes Reed, the great-granddaughter of Claus Mangels, spent her summers, creating cherished memories that have been passed down through generations.

Welcome to the Old Salt Lake Historical Marker, a captivating local business nestled in the heart of Redondo Beach, California. Our site offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Southern California's historical landscape. As you explore, you'll discover a wealth of stories that have shaped this vibrant region. Located at Redondo Beach, CA 90277, the Old Salt Lake Historical Marker stands as a testament to the area's diverse and dynamic past. While our primary focus is the fascinating history surrounding the Old Salt Lake, we also highlight significant historical landmarks throughout Southern California, each with its own captivating story.

Welcome to The Grey Ghost Project: Unveiling the Mysteries of the RMS Queen Mary Located at 1126 Queens Highway in Long Beach, California, The Grey Ghost Project invites you to embark on a captivating journey through history and the supernatural aboard the iconic RMS Queen Mary. As a premier tourist attraction, we offer a unique blend of historical exploration and paranormal investigation, all set against the backdrop of this legendary ocean liner.