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.
ships

For Sustainable Coffee, These Ships Take to the High Seas

The old-fashioned way is also the carbon-neutral way.
Frankie Adkins May 12, 2022
cults

An Ancient Roman Cult's Rituals Included Feasting, Fire, and Floor Cleaning

To uncover new clues about the secretive world of Mithraism, scientists considered evidence right at their feet.
Nathaniel Scharping May 13, 2022
insects

The World's Largest Bee and the Cautionary Tale of Its Rediscovery

Scientists were thrilled to find the Wallace's giant bee, missing for four decades. Things did not go as they'd hoped.
Oliver Milman April 11, 2022
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Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide
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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

Discover Chile: From Santiago to Patagonia

Chile
Nov 3–10, 2022
From $7,765 USD
+ 1 other date
history

Subterranean Slovenia: Caves, Cellars, and Secret Tunnels

Slovenia
Oct 9–15, 2022
From $3,205 USD
Descend into the storied labyrinth of the Slovenian karst to explore winding caves, historic tunnels, cellar-like spaces, and even ancient bear fossils.
history

Mexico City to Oaxaca: Tracing the Threads of Frida Kahlo’s Dresses

Mexico
Oct 14–22, 2022
From $3,870 USD
Learn about Frida's life, iconic aesthetic, and the cultural fabric of Central Mexico and Oaxaca.
+ 1 other date
wildlife & nature

Iceland in Winter: Natural Wonders & Ancient Legends

Iceland
Nov 5–12, 2022
From $3,685 USD
A land of folklore and myths on a backdrop of remarkable natural wonders.
+ 3 other dates
hidden cities

Hidden Berlin: Exploring the City’s Abandoned and Underground Spaces

Germany
Sep 12–17, 2022
From $3,270 USD
wildlife & nature

Rewilding: Tracking Wolves in the Forests of Sweden

Sweden
Jul 4–9, 2022
From $3,450 USD
Experience Sweden's special connection with nature and learn first-hand how to observe and track local animals.
+ 2 other dates
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Place of the Day
17.6547, 42.8872
Jabal al Qahar
Climbing Saudi Arabia's "mountain of frustration" is no easy feat.
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Find Wondrous Places on Every Continent
Our guides will surprise and delight you.
Destination Guide

London, England

87 Articles
425 Places
Destination Guide

Marrakesh, Morocco

15 Places
Destination Guide

Mexico City, Mexico

15 Articles
157 Places
Destination Guide

New York

180 Articles
713 Places
Destination Guide

São Paulo, Brazil

28 Places
Destination Guide

Tokyo, Japan

12 Articles
146 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.
Dundee, Scotland

Tay Bridge Memorial

Dedicated to one of the nation's worst engineering disasters.
Hyrum, Utah

Elite Hall

Built in 1917, this building is home to the last working spring-loaded dance floor in Utah.
Aswan, Egypt

King Jamaica Restaurant and Cafe

This eatery is emblematic of the connection between Jamaica and Nubia.
Denver, Colorado

Big Blue Bear

Overlooking the Colorado Convention Center is this giant sculpture made from thousands of triangles.
Tygh Valley, Oregon

Sherars Falls

Members of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs still net migrating salmon in the traditional way at this cataract on the Deschutes River.
Fort Worth, Texas

Southwest Regional Library Demo Garden

This library is a reader's paradise and a plant lover's dream.
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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

Playing Ancient Games: History & Mythology With John Bucher

Starts Mon, May 16
3 Sessions
$210 per person
Online Course

Tiny Ecosystems: Making Terrariums With the Terrorium Shop

Starts Wed, May 18
3 Sessions
$150 per person
Online Course

Making Scents: Experimental Perfumery With Saskia Wilson-Brown

Starts Tue, May 24
3 Sessions
$215 per person
+ 3 other dates
Online Course

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

Starts Tue, May 24
3 Sessions
$220 per person
+ 1 other date
Online Course

Creating Crossword Puzzles With Brooke Husic & Natan Last

Starts Tue, May 24
4 Sessions
$70 per person
Online Course

Hidden Mythology: Decoding Everyday Symbols with John Bucher

Starts Wed, May 25
4 Sessions
$70 per person
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