Carmel Mission Basilica Museum

An authentically restored mission originally founded in 1770 is located in a small neighborhood in one of the most sought-after cities to live in the U.S. For decades the buildings were abandoned, but in the late 1800s a move was made by the Roman Catholic Church to restore the mission to its former glory. Today it is the only Spanish mission in California that still has its original bell and bell tower. (Submitted by Louise C)