The Queen Mary - Long Beach
The Queen Mary in Long Beach, California, is a must-visit for fans of Art Deco, a style that flourished in the 1920s and 1930s. Inside, it feels like a laid-back museum, filled with interesting infographics and fun historical tidbits. One of the highlights is the "haunted tours," where a guide takes you behind the scenes to areas typically off-limits to the public and shares eerie stories of the ship’s history and reported hauntings. As a hotel, you can even stay aboard if you're feeling adventurous. 
The Queen Mary. Photo Credit: Nocholas Amico.
Blackstar Canyon - Silverado
This hiking trail in Silverado, California, carries a haunting legend tied to trappers led by William Wolfskill and Native Americans, stemming from a notorious conflict in 1831. While the trails are open to respectful hikers, it’s not the ideal spot for ghost hunting, as the area is residential. Visitors are asked to stay on the marked paths and respect private property by not crossing fences. On rare occasions after rainfall, a waterfall appears about three miles from the parking lot, offering a scenic reward for your hike. The area is beautiful but gaining popularity, so expect more visitors than in years past.
Blackstar Canyon. Photo Credit: Keith Wong.
Silverado Café - Silverado
Adjacent to Blackstar Canyon lies a quaint shopping area featuring a historic café, brimming with charm. This café, once part of a silver boomtown during the mining era, holds a special place in local history. It's a popular stop for bikers, adding to its unique atmosphere. However, the café is quite small, so if you’re not a fan of tight spaces, it might not be your ideal spot. The menu offers classic diner fare, perfect for a casual meal in a cozy, nostalgic setting.
Silverado Café. Photo Credit: Bob Schoppman.
The Newland House - Huntington Beach
This historic house, once owned by Illinois farmer William Taylor Newland, is located in Huntington Beach, California, in what is now a parking lot. Over time, the house fell into disrepair but was restored in the 1970s by preservation groups. Today, the Huntington Beach Historical Society maintains the property and offers tours. The residence is also a popular spot for weddings, adding to its charm and historical significance. Adjacent to the house is Bartlett Park, named after a 1940s mayor (originally it was Newland's farmland). Unlike a typical park, Bartlett Park is largely untouched wilderness with walking trails, though the distant hum of cars reminds you you're still near the city.
The Newland House. Photo Credit: Kat.