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.
islands

Is 'Mele Kalikimaka' Really the Thing to Say on a Bright Hawaiian Christmas Day?

Popularized by Bing Crosby's kitschy pop classic, the phrase doesn't delight everyone. It also makes no sense.
Blair Mastbaum December 8, 2022

Welcome to Atlas Obscura’s Holidays With a Twist!

'Tis the season for wonder! 
Atlas Obscura December 8, 2022
film locations

Podcast: Medfield State Hospital

This abandoned institution welcomes visitors, just don't go inside.
The Podcast Team December 7, 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.
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
history

Tunisia & the Sands of Time

Tunisia
May 7–19, 2023
From $4,890 USD
Discover unique landscapes, wander through winding medinas, relax by ancient oases, and journey to the Sahara and back.
+ 3 other dates
history

Secrets of Sudan: Pyramids & Ancient Kingdoms

Sudan
Nov 1–12, 2023
From $5,980 USD
Journey along the Nile, across the Sudanese desert, and discover the pyramids and archaeological treasures of ancient civilizations.
+ 1 other date
food & drink

Springtime in Eastern China: Exploring the Birthplace of Tea

China
From $4,540 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. 
history

In the Footsteps of Pharaohs: Exploring Ancient Egypt

Egypt
Dec 29–Jan 7, 2023
From $5,480 USD
Discover ancient and modern Cairo then cruise along the Nile taking in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel.
history

Ancient Wonders: Egypt & The Nile

Egypt
Jan 25–Feb 4, 2023
From $5,130 USD
Discover ancient and modern Cairo then cruise along the Nile taking in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel.
+ 10 other dates
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Place of the Day
40.4243, -3.7072
'Tras Julia'
Dedicated to a young woman who broke gender barriers at the University of Madrid.
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Find Wondrous Places on Every Continent
Our guides will surprise and delight you.
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
Destination Guide

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.
Galway, Ireland

Kilmacduagh Monastic Settlement

The ruins of a monastery that dates to the 7th century.
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.
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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

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
Online Course

Exploring Steampunk Art With Bruce Rosenbaum

Starts Tue, Dec 20
4 Sessions
$75 per person
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