10 Iconic Places to Check Out in California

California is the most populous state in the U.S. and the third-largest state in the union, with a land area close to the size of Japan. Due to its massive size and diverse history and population, California is home to a nearly infinite number of fascinating places. Here are 10 places you should definitely see while visiting the Golden State.

 

The San Francisco Cable cars have become synonymous with the city of San Francisco and are considered one of the only two moving landmarks in the U.S. The cable cars, which are also one of the world's last manually operated cable car systems, first opened in 1870 and still serve passengers today.

 

First opened in 1953 in Downey and barely changed since then, this blast from the past is the third McDonald's restaurant ever to open. Besides its historical value and status as a time capsule, visitors can enjoy classic McDonald's fare and visit the McDonald's museum next door.

 

Besides its iconic cable cars, the island of Alcatraz is also a San Francisco staple. In its heyday, it housed some of the most notorious inmates of the 20th century and was infamous for being inescapable. Due to its infamy, it has earned its place in pop culture and the public consciousness.

 

The instantly recognizable Santa Monica Pier is a staple of Los Angeles and the state of California as a whole. Since its construction in 1909, it has been featured in everything from movies like Forrest Gump to video games like Grand Theft Auto 5. The pier features several carnival rides, restaurants, food stands, and even a fishing location.

 

Built in the 1880s by Sarah Winchester and located in San Jose, the Winchester Mystery House is one of the most bizarre and fascinating pieces of architecture in America and one of the most famous haunted places in the world. The house has doorways and staircases that lead nowhere, and there is even a bathroom with 13 windows.

 

This preserved 1800s-era boomtown will transport visitors back to the frontier days. Columbia features all the places you would expect in any classic old Western town, like sweet shops, hotels, general stores, and saloons. Visitors can even go panning for gold, ride a stagecoach, or see an 1800s-style show at the local theatre.

 

The Hotel Roosevelt, named after U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, has been synonymous with Hollywood since it hosted the first Academy Award ceremony in 1929. Due to its link with Hollywood, the hotel has hosted many famous guests, including Marilyn Monroe, Arthur Miller, Prince, and even Brad Pitt.

 

Griffith Observatory is almost instantly recognizable due to the countless films and TV shows it has been featured in. It offers visitors incredible views of Los Angeles and Hollywood, a chance to look through its three telescopes and numerous fascinating astronomy-themed exhibits.

 

Haight Ashbury is well known as the birthplace of the free love movement of the 1960s. That legacy still lives on today with the district's diverse, accepting atmosphere. The district has numerous LGBTQ+-friendly businesses and many that harken back to the days of free love.

 

The historic Saugus Cafe is the oldest restaurant in Los Angeles, at nearly 140 years old. It serves classic American fare like waffles, pancakes, burgers, and ribs, among numerous other options. Due to its longevity, many famous people have dined here, including Theodore Roosevelt and John Wayne.