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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.
holiday

Unusual Gifts for Book Lovers

A giving guide from the Atlas Obscura team.
Atlas Obscura November 28, 2022
science

Canada's First Indigenous-Led Research Station Is a Symbol of Hope—And Our Climate Crisis

The Scotty Creek facility was part of an unprecedented First Nations effort to study and save the Arctic. Then the fire came.
Ed Struzik November 28, 2022
Itinerary

The Explorer's Guide to Hudson Valley, New York

A drive upstate includes eclectic charms, luxurious food, and stunning views. Sponsored by Defender.
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.
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.
food & drink

Los Angeles: America’s Culinary Frontier

Los Angeles
From $3,325 USD
history

Cambodia: Angkor Wat & Beyond

Cambodia
From $3,925 USD
wildlife & nature

Into the Wilds of Costa Rica

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

Oaxaca: Tastes of Past & Present

Mexico
Jan 20–26, 2023
From $3,480 USD
Join us as we explore the indigenous flavors, contemporary cuisine, and rich history of Oaxaca—meeting local chefs, artisans, and historians along the way.
+ 6 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
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Place of the Day
35.8677, -83.5660
Dolly Parton Statue
An ode to "The Queen of Appalachia."
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Find Wondrous Places on Every Continent
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Destination Guide

London, England

96 Articles
442 Places
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Marrakesh, Morocco

15 Places
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Mexico City, Mexico

15 Articles
161 Places
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New York

190 Articles
733 Places
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São Paulo, Brazil

29 Places
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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.
Yonezawa, Japan

Ubayu Onsen

Located in a remote mountain valley in Yamagata Prefecture, these hot springs have attracted bathers for over 450 years.
Barstow, California

Rainbow Basin

Colorful sedimentary rock layers provide opportunities both for hiking and photography.
Kyoto, Japan

Original Nintendo Building

The first location of the eventual video game giant.
Peoria, Illinois

Advance Space

A collection of art crafted from various hardware tools.
Stone Park, Illinois

Italian Cultural Center

Inside the center are Italian works of art and a replica model of St. Peter's Basilica.
Hampshire, England

Farnborough Airship Hangar Frame

The lasting remains of the Balloon Section of the British Armed Forces.
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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 1
3 Sessions
$65 per person
Online Course

Spoken Stories: Recording Oral History With Meral Agish

Starts Thu, Dec 1
4 Sessions
$220 per person
Online Course

Making Scents: Experimental Perfumery With Saskia Wilson-Brown

Starts Mon, Dec 5
3 Sessions
$215 per person
+ 3 other dates
Online Course

Playing Ancient Games: History & Mythology With John Bucher

Starts Mon, Dec 5
3 Sessions
$210 per person
+ 1 other date
Online Course

Demystifying Artisanal Cheese With Jasper Hill Farm

Starts Tue, Dec 6
4 Sessions
$80 per person
Online Course

Designing Soft Circuits & E-Textiles With Linh My Truong

Starts Wed, Dec 7
4 Sessions
$245 per person
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