Places Edited by Sam LaFrance

The lesser-known lost colony of Roanoke was a safe haven for formerly enslaved people during the Civil War.

Buffalo's abandoned concrete grain elevators are getting a second life.

This restored house is like a time capsule of the president's unconventional inauguration.

The scant remains of this flooded historic village can be explored in one of the most remote areas of the Great Smokies.

This landmark jazz venue is the oldest continuously running African-American club in the United States. Currently undergoing renovations, it is set to reopen in late 2025.

One of Frank Lloyd Wright's greatest—and favorite—architectural masterpieces was almost lost.

The trunks of 3,000 year-old trees lurk beneath the surface of this crystal clear lake in Oregon.

This natural marble cave is one of only five national monuments in Oregon.

This peaceful gem in upstate New York was chosen as the future home of the 14th Dalai Lama's Library and Museum.

This little slice of the Netherlands in the Pacific Northwest blooms in a rainbow of color each spring.

This historic estate on the east shore of Lake Tahoe was home to an eccentric millionaire (and his pet elephant, Mingo).

Unknown to many, this sparkling turquoise lake hides amid Oregon's snowcapped mountains.

This rare archive of original recordings and photos uncovers the early days of hip hop culture.

The eerie remnants of an ancient forest were hidden under the sand for centuries.

Founded by a high school teacher, this poetry magazine became a center for all things literary.

L.A.'s oldest operating bowling alley is a beautifully restored homage to its speakeasy days.

Thousands of migrating monarchs overwinter clustered amongst the eucalyptus trees.

In northern Ohio, the glorious past of America's trains is on full display.

This great stone guardian of the forest is a relic from the land's volatile volcanic past.

A former mining hospital is now a vibrant artistic hub.

Nearly 300,000 acres of wildlife, natural splendor, and a hidden ghost town have been designated a national monument.

A historic blockhouse and trading post give a glimpse into the early colonial history of South Carolina.

Legend has it the mill owner's daughter, Mary Musgrove, helped a Patriot soldier hide behind these falls.

According to local lore, this narrow passageway through two large rocks was accidentally created by the devil himself.