Atlas Obscura - Curious and Wondrous Travel Destinations
What's near me?

The definitive guide to the world’s hidden wonders.

Discover the Unexpected With Our Stories
Our fascinating articles will transport and inspire you.
science

Meet Florida's Most Adorable Rodent and the Superfans Determined to Save It

Invasive predators and other threats have pushed the Key Largo woodrat to the brink. A small but passionate group of scientists and volunteers is pushing back.
Karuna Eberl August 5, 2022
hotels

Podcast: Seven Keys Lodge

We visit the world’s largest random, assorted key collection, which was inspired by a literary infatuation.
The Podcast Team August 10, 2022
List

7 Ice Cream Shops Grounded in Cultural Traditions

Find flavors ranging from Aztec marigold to soursop at these sweet spots.
Diana Hubbell June 21, 2022
Order our new book today!
Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide
See More
Unlock the World With Our Small-Group Trips
Our immersive, curiosity-driven experiences take you to the hidden side of the world.
wildlife & nature

Wings & Wonders: Birds of New Zealand

New Zealand
Nov 7–17, 2022
From $5,450 USD
Explore the spectacular birdlife, biodiversity, and natural wonder of Aotearoa alongside seasoned conservationists.
art & culture

Peru: Machu Picchu and the Last Incan Bridges

Peru
Apr 25–May 4, 2023
From $5,740 USD
+ 4 other dates
wildlife & nature

New Zealand: Māori Traditions & Natural Marvels

New Zealand
Feb 10–22, 2023
From $6,750 USD
+ 3 other dates
wildlife & nature

Into the Wilds of Costa Rica

Costa Rica
Oct 15–22, 2023
From $4,180 USD
+ 5 other dates
history

Chiseled in Stone: Armenia’s Ancient Roots and Soviet-era Relics

Armenia
From $2,725 USD
An overland journey to uncover the ancient, complex, and tragic history of one of the earliest Christian civilizations
food & drink

China: The Great Cuisines of the Middle Kingdom

China
Jun 5–16, 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.
+ 3 other dates
See More
Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.
Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.
Place of the Day
31.3452, -109.5551
Gadsden Hotel Windows
The lobby of this hotel near the U.S.-Mexico border features a stained-glass mural that measures 42 feet long and 6 feet tall.
Get Even More From Atlas Obscura
Join the Atlas Obscura Membership Program
Membership is your passport to even more wonder and curiosity, no matter where you are!
Become a Member
Find Wondrous Places on Every Continent
Our guides will surprise and delight you.
Destination Guide

London, England

91 Articles
429 Places
Destination Guide

Marrakesh, Morocco

15 Places
Destination Guide

Mexico City, Mexico

15 Articles
160 Places
Destination Guide

New York

182 Articles
728 Places
Destination Guide

São Paulo, Brazil

29 Places
Destination Guide

Tokyo, Japan

13 Articles
155 Places
See More
Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.
Explore Our Collection of Hidden Wonders Around the World
Our community-driven database of 22,000+ amazing places grows every day.
Alexandria, Virginia

Jackson M. Abbott Wetland Refuge

Dedicated to a U.S. Army lieutenant colonel who was also a bird watcher and artist.
Chelyabinsk, Russia

Chelyabinsk Meteorite

The largest-known fragment of an asteroid that exploded over the southern Ural region in 2013.
Cedar City, Utah

Old Irontown

Irontown was founded in 1868, as a second attempt to mine iron from the nearby Iron Mountain.
Torpshammar, Sweden

Sweden's Geographical Midpoint

The "geometrical" center of the country, as calculated in 1947.
Kraków, Poland

The Living Obwarzanek Museum (Żywe Muzeum Obwarzanka)

Learn the fine art of making a centuries-old treat at this hands-on food museum.
McLean, Texas

1929 Phillips 66 Station

This refurbished gas station is one of the oldest in Texas, located on the original Route 66.
See More
Enroll in a Course to Explore New Skills and Niche Topics
Our deep and dynamic online learning will expand your horizons.
Online Course

Making Scents: Experimental Perfumery With Saskia Wilson-Brown

Starts Mon, Aug 15
3 Sessions
$215 per person
+ 4 other dates
Online Course

Writing the Food Memoir: A Workshop With Gina Rae La Cerva

Starts Wed, Aug 17
4 Sessions
$225 per person
+ 1 other date
Online Course

Designing Modern Floral Arrangements With Arrin Sutliff

Starts Wed, Aug 17
4 Sessions
$220 per person
Online Course

Most Wanted Art: Unrecovered Art of WWII With the Monuments Men and Women Foundation

Starts Thu, Aug 18
4 Sessions
$80 per person
Online Course

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

Starts Mon, Aug 22
5 Sessions
$225 per person
+ 1 other date
Online Course

Playing Ancient Games: History & Mythology With John Bucher

Starts Mon, Aug 22
3 Sessions
$210 per person
+ 4 other dates
See More