The artist James Turrell is repurposing an extinct volcano crater as an observatory to experience the cosmos.

An arsenic-filled pool in the Grand Canyon takes on the appearance of a giant, overflowing pumpkin.

Eons ago, a rushing lava river formed this pristine passage through solid rock.

This secluded aqua waterfall in the Grand Canyon is the perfect swimming hole, and the Havasupai tribe's fiercely protected natural wonder.

Dramatic river bend surrounds a natural red-rocked pedestal.

Most-visited and most-photographed slot canyon in the American Southwest.

Rippling sand dunes frozen in the Arizona rock.

The world's largest dark sky preserve is a Canadian park established to preserve the country's last wood bison.

With over 340,000 artifacts and counting, there is something for everyone, often called the "Smithsonian of the West."

A collection of over 15,000 zines works to preserve DIY publishing culture.

The oldest tofu shop in the United States is a firm favorite with locals.

Nestled between a college and a golf course, the garden is home to more than 2,500 rhododendrons.

This abandoned boat sits on a nude beach, is shaped like a UFO, and is covered in graffiti.

A collection of heirloom roses tucked in a spectacularly beautiful botanical garden on Lake Atitlan.

Deep in the Guatemalan jungle stands an ancient pyramid that once marked the reign of a king.

Experiencing Guatemala's sensory-exploding church is a blunt reminder of European influence.

One of the world’s most colorful cemeteries, where each pigment is symbolic.

Volcanically heated hot springs.

Hidden deep in the Guatemalan jungle is a turquoise paradise of natural pools, caves, and waterfalls.

Museum mostly in name, and only a restaurant depending on the day, this place could only exist in Marfa.

Unusual house, in an unusual neighborhood, home to some very unusual peanuts.

A collection of 100 brains preserved in jars on the UT campus.

An exquisite grouping of structures made from 10 tons of invasive saplings.

Scale replica of China's ancient terracotta tomb warriors and Forbidden City are the side project of an eccentric millionaire.