Beyond LA: 6 Wildly Unique California Towns No One Talks About
Wildly Unique California Towns No One Talks About
When you think of California, places like Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco probably come to mind. But the Golden State has some
truly strange and unforgettable towns hiding in plain sight. If you love
offbeat travel or are simply looking for something different, this list is for you.
1. Zzyzx – The Last Word on the Map
Pronounced “Zye-zix,” this desert location was founded as a fake health spa and named to be the last word in the dictionary. Today, it houses a research center run by Cal State and is a curiosity magnet for travelers.
2. Colma – Where the Dead Outnumber the Living
With only around 1,600 living residents and over 1.5 million buried, Colma is known as the "City of the Silent." It’s literally a city of cemeteries, born from San Francisco’s cemetery ban.
3. Livermore – Home of the Eternal Light Bulb
The Livermore Centennial Light has been glowing since 1901 and is still burning in a local fire station. It’s the longest-lasting light bulb in the world — and has its own live webcam!
4. Baker – The World’s Tallest Thermometer
Standing 134 feet tall, Baker’s giant thermometer pays tribute to the hottest temperature recorded on Earth (134°F in nearby Death Valley in 1913). It’s the ultimate desert photo stop.
5. Nipton – A Circus in the Making
This tiny desert town was purchased by a circus company and is being reimagined as a whimsical retreat for performers, artists, and adventurers.
6. Carmel-by-the-Sea – No High Heels Allowed (Sort Of)
This fairytale-like town requires a permit to wear high heels over two inches — due to its uneven paths. The rule is rarely enforced, but it’s still on the books!
If you're ready to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, these cities are perfect for your next quirky getaway. Whether you're into ghost towns, scientific oddities, or strange laws, California has something to surprise you.
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