California dreamin’? Looking for something unusual or different? The Golden State is enormous and there so many places to see and things to do. It could be difficult to choose where to go. However, if you’re up for something out of the ordinary, you may find what you’re looking for. Perhaps, you don’t know what you’re looking for, but you’re up for the adventure for something unusual. Some of these lesser known places may be a bit off the beaten path. You may be surprised, however, that you hadn’t heard about them sooner! Or, you may just be plain surprised that they exist at all. So next time you’re headed to California, check out these 9 weirdest vacations destinations.
1) Hearst Castle of Trash Art, Nitt Witt Ridge
Located in Cambria, on Nitt Witt Ridge, this unusual structure is the creation of Art Beal, aka Captain Nitt Witt. He spent 51 years with only a pickax and shovel along with natural materials and trash he collected from his garbage route in the 1940’s-1950’s. Reportedly, some of the materials are remnants from Hearst Casltle, where he is said to have worked. Other items used in the construction include shells, car parts, old appliances, and beer cans. When Art died at age 96 in 1992, his ashes were spread on Nitt Witt Ridge around his favorite redwood tree. Thereafter, the house suffered deterioration and ransacking. That is, until 1999 when Michael and Stacy O’Mally became the new owners. They made repairs, cleaned up the gardens and opened it to the public. Michael gives enthusiastic guided tours for a $10 donation. It’s also now listed as a California historic landmark.
