Atlas Obscura - Curious and Wondrous Travel Destinations
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The definitive guide to the world’s hidden wonders.

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Our fascinating articles will transport and inspire you.
architecture

The Twisty History of Montreal's Outdoor Staircases

Immigrants, artisans, economics, and the Catholic Church all played a role.
Laura Kiniry December 7, 2022
food

The Race to Make Alternative Lobster Bait

As the fishing industry grapples with declining herring and mackerel, could sausage be their savior?
Moira Donovan December 6, 2022
libraries

Podcast: Library of Congress Hair Collection

Locks from everyone, from Ludwig van Beethoven to Ulysses S. Grant.
The Podcast Team December 6, 2022
Give the ultimate holiday gift!
The Explorer's Library box set
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Unlock the World With Our Small-Group Trips
Our immersive, curiosity-driven experiences take you to the hidden side of the world.
art & culture

Peru: Machu Picchu and the Last Incan Bridges

Peru
May 30–Jun 8, 2023
From $5,740 USD
+ 2 other dates
wildlife & nature

Iceland in Winter: Natural Wonders & Ancient Legends

Iceland
Dec 30–Jan 6, 2023
From $3,685 USD
A land of folklore and myths on a backdrop of remarkable natural wonders.
+ 10 other dates
art & culture

Artisans & Exiles: Exploring the Hidden Traditions of Japan’s Sado Island

Japan
May 13–21, 2023
From $6,540 USD
Exploration through a history of exile, gold rush, and thriving cultural traditions.
+ 4 other dates
wildlife & nature

New Zealand: Māori Traditions & Natural Marvels

New Zealand
Apr 7–19, 2023
From $6,750 USD
+ 2 other dates
history

Festivals and Mountaintop Temples of Bhutan

Bhutan
From $4,235 USD
Explore the ancient traditions and contemporary culture of this Himalayan kingdom during its lively festival season.
food & drink

China: The Great Cuisines of the Middle Kingdom

China
Oct 9–20, 2023
From $6,470 USD
From bustling night markets to fine-dining institutions, this journey down China’s east coast reveals the story of countless delicious dishes and culinary traditions.
+ 1 other date
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Place of the Day
6.7309, -11.3793
Robertsport Ghost Ship
After several weeks of radio silence, this abandoned oil tanker washed up on a remote beach in Liberia.
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Find Wondrous Places on Every Continent
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Destination Guide

London, England

96 Articles
443 Places
Destination Guide

Marrakesh, Morocco

15 Places
Destination Guide

Mexico City, Mexico

15 Articles
161 Places
Destination Guide

New York

191 Articles
733 Places
Destination Guide

São Paulo, Brazil

29 Places
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Tokyo, Japan

13 Articles
164 Places
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Explore Our Collection of Hidden Wonders Around the World
Our community-driven database of 22,000+ amazing places grows every day.
Kittery, Maine

Fort McClary State Historic Site

Despite its extensive history, this fort saw little to not combat.
Carefree, Arizona

Carefree Sundial

Once disputed as the largest sundial in the world.
Morrison, Colorado

Morrison Natural History Museum

A tiny town’s tiny museum with some gigantic residents.
Sölvesborg, Sweden

Sölvesborgsbron (The Sölvesborg Bridge)

One of the longest footbridges in Europe.
Nida, Lithuania

Nida Ethnographic Cemetery

An extensive collection of some of the oldest grave markers in Lithuania.
Grimsby, England

Grimsby Imp

A 12th-century church that houses a dark creature.
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Enroll in a Course to Explore New Skills and Niche Topics
Our deep and dynamic online learning will expand your horizons.
Online Course

How to Read a Landscape: Botany & Ecology With Annie Novak

Starts Thu, Dec 8
3 Sessions
$65 per person
Online Course

Historical Nonfiction: Research-Based Writing With Hadley Meares

Starts Sun, Dec 11
4 Sessions
$195 per person
+ 3 other dates
Online Course

Bee-licious: Taste Honey Like a Sommelier With Marina Marchese

Starts Mon, Dec 12
3 Sessions
$220 per person
Online Course

All the Small Things: Crafting a Miniature Abandoned Room With Amanda Kelly

Starts Wed, Dec 14
5 Sessions
$225 per person
Online Course

A Lockpicking Practicum With Schuyler Towne

Starts Thu, Dec 15
5 Sessions
$255 per person
Online Course

Playing for Keeps: Designing Keepsake Games With Shing Yin Khor

Starts Tue, Dec 20
4 Sessions
$215 per person
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