You Can Visit the Official Center of the World in Felicity, California

What do an obscure pyramid, a quaint chapel, a large sundial, a museum of human existence, and an isolated, desert community in Southern California have in common? They’re located in the tiny town of Felicity, one of the most fascinating roadside attractions in Southern California. My curiosity for the unknown has led me to this unexpected destination. 

Here, you’ll find the Official Center of the World and the History of Humanity in Granite Museum. Immediately capturing my sense of adventure, this quirky town in the Sonoran Desert is full of mystery, magic, and has the perfect dose of whimsy. It’s the kind of destination where you’ll “arrive intrigued,” but “leave inspired.” And it’s certainly worth a detour on your next road trip through Southern California.    

When French-born entrepreneur, banker, parachute pioneer, and Marine Corps veteran, Jacques-André Istel, wrote his children’s book, Coe: The Good Dragon at the Center of the World, who knew it would lead to an official designation of the Center of the World? Apparently, he did, and here we are. The site, located in the town of Felicity, named after his wife Felicia, was legally recognized by Imperial County in 1985. Unexpectedly, the Institut Géographique National in France has also acknowledged this unique designation.

After purchasing the barren land near the Arizona border in 1985, Istel became the official Mayor of the town of Felicity, voted in by his wife and the imaginary dragon from his novel. And in case you’re wondering, the officials of the county accepted the vote of the fairytale character. In the words of famed scientist Albert Einstein, “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere." Obviously, Istel saw the logic in purchasing land in the middle of the desert, but it was his imagination that truly made this place magical. Today, Felicity stands as a whimsical destination where fantasy and reality collide. 

The actual geological center of the world is in a town in Turkey, but it’s safe to say it lacks the vision and character of Felicity. An attraction for all ages, the town invites visitors to explore, learn, and embrace what’s possible. Inside stands a 21-foot-tall pink granite pyramid with a bronze plaque in the middle, marking the exact spot for the center of the world. As part of the experience, you’ll watch a video before entering the pyramid, then you’ll touch the spot and make a wish. Some believe that the Universe will listen, while others treat it as part of the fun. You’ll then receive an official certificate to remember your time here. There is no wrong or right, just let your imagination be your guide. 

Other attractions include the Chapel of the Desert, a small religious sanctuary situated atop a 35-foot man-made hill. The iconic cream-colored structure with its turquoise blue door stands out against the muted colors of the desert. You’ll also find the Maze of Honor, a labyrinth of personal messages etched in granite, a 25-foot staircase from the original Eiffel Tower, a 15-foot bronze sundial, fashioned after the Arm of God from Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, and more.

Most impressive and arguably the coolest part of Felicity is the Museum of History in Granite, created by Istel for future generations, designed to last 4,000 years. A first-of-its-kind museum, the site is built using twenty 100-foot triangular granite structures etched with the history of significant aspects of humanity. Currently, there are over 1,000 hand-etched illustrations with more being added over time, making this “granite history book” a living time capsule. This site reminds me of the Georgia Guidestones, a monument in a tiny Georgia community that had its own hidden secrets.  

It’s natural for us to be curious about a place like Felicity. Over the years, this eclectic town in the desert has garnered lots of speculation. I have heard many whispers about the attraction, with some explorers describing it as surreal. Others have mentioned that the pyramid in the desert is a bit creepy. My personal favorite is the folks declaring it the spot where future aliens will visit to learn the history of humanity.

A local adventurer has further piqued my curiosity about this fascinating town. Dai’Quiriya Martinez, a student at California Institute of Integral Studies, pursuing a Doctorate in Anthropology, recently visited the Center of the World and was so impressed that she’s planning a second trip here. A native of South Los Angeles, Martinez heard about Felicity after watching a YouTube special about the fascinating town. She was captivated by the pyramid, which led to further research and, soon after, a road trip with friends to explore the site for herself. 

What’s Martinez’s impression of Felicity? After describing the town as magical, she states, “I feel like it’s a place with ley lines, and the founder knew there was some kind of energy there and so he chose it.” I can’t confirm or deny these claims, but Martinez witnessed unusual activities with her dowsing rods at the site. If you don’t know, these metal rods are used to detect energy fields and underground minerals. Although they’re not recognized as scientific proof of anything, I find it interesting that the possibility exists that the Center of the World could have hidden mysteries.

The layout of the town with the sundial, the pyramid, the center of the museum, the Felicity Stone (a granite stone etched with various languages), and the chapel, which are perfectly aligned, makes me wonder if Martinez is on to something. Plus, the geometrical design of the museum and monuments further adds to this theory. This is part of the fun of visiting the Center of the World: your curiosity becomes your guide.   

Aside from her experience with the energy field, Martinez’s most memorable moment was standing inside the pyramid and snapping pics while touching the actual spot that marks the world’s center. Overall, she had a positive experience in Felicity and recommends it for “other travelers, especially those who like to go off the beaten path.” 

On our road trips, the detours are always the best part of the journey. So, if you find yourself driving from California to Arizona on Interstate 8, and you see the sign for the Center of the World, carve out time for this bucket-list-worthy adventure. As Martinez declares, “If you want to have an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experience, plan a trip to Felicity.” 

Some things to keep in mind when visiting the Official Center of the World:

• For the full experience, including a brief video, a guided tour, and access to the Center of the World, plan your visit between November and April 30. 
• Self-guided tours of the town and museum are available from May to October 
• Felicity is open seven days per week, but hours vary depending on when you visit   
• Keep in mind, Felicity is in the desert, so wear comfy clothing, especially if you visit during the warmer months
• Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Little ones under 5 are free
• Don’t leave your camera at home; there are tons of opportunities to snap pics here

Many thanks to Martinez for sharing her experience at this quirky roadside attraction in Southern California. If you would like to know more about the town of Felicity and the museum, visit the History of Humanity in Granite website. 

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. Also, check out some more whimsical destinations in California on this hidden gem road trip.