Ever crossed the Golden Gate Bridge? Or take the kids for some afternoon fun at the Santa Monica Pier? Maybe you’ve caught a ferry for a tour of the notorious prison at Alcatraz Island or gone for a hike to see the geologic wonders and signature trees at Joshua Tree National Park. But did you know that California actually has a whole lot more to offer? If what you like is art, a nature stroll, discovering the state’s history, or getting pampered, wined, and dined, then California is packed with a bunch of other sites and must-see landmarks that are beyond the usual places you might think to go.
#1: Salvation Mountain (Niland)
Leonard Knight spent nearly 30 years building Salvation Mountain in the California desert, using materials like adobe, tires, and thousands of gallons of paint to spread the message “God is Love.” Salvation Mountain was recognized by the Folk Art Society of America in 2000 and continues to be a symbol of love and faith, attracting visitors to this 50-foot-tall folk art masterpiece in the heart of the desert.
