San Luis Obispo, California: Madonna Inn

As tacky and gloriously over the top as ever. The cakes at that bakery are fantastic -- try to time your visit at off-meal hours for less crowds.

You must stay here! Best roadside, historic hotel ever. So fun and unique!

My wife and I were married in the Madonna Inn Yosemite Room, which resembled a cave with real rocks brought in and assembled -- even for the ceiling. The bathroom was also all rocks, including the shower. It was very fun and a great wedding memory.

If you like kitsch, then this is the place for you! Book in advance as it fills up -- you can choose your themed room online and they give away postcards for each room.

The restaurant is the most garish explosion of pink you've ever seen but don't let that fool you -- the food is good. The coffee shop has pink sugar and vintage wood paneled decor goodness. They make cakes that are a foot high. The pool is actually quite nice. It was originally intended to be an adults-only pool, but ultimately was deemed family friendly. It's not cheap by any means, but IMO worth every penny!

Staying at The Madonna Inn is an incredible experience. I stayed with my kids in the San Francisco room, we ate at the Copper Cafe (where they even had a vegan option) and swam in the heated outdoor pool while enjoying incredible views. It is well worth the money to spend time in this gaudy and unique hotel.