nature
7 Essential Experiences in Southwest Louisiana
A journey through crawfish boils, Carnival costumes, and incredible wildlife.
Articles by Atlas Obscura
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Stories
Stories shared by this traveler.
The Wooden Way: A Cross-Pennsylvania Pilgrimage to the Golden Age of Thrills
A fast-paced journey up, down, and around the state’s historic coasters.
roadside attractions
Route 66: The Mother Road
America’s Historic Route 66—the Mother Road—has become a drive of legend. Join us to see what keeps travelers coming back.
sailors
Forged by Nature: How Maine’s Wilderness Inspires Creativity
This video series from Atlas Obscura explores how Maine’s unforgettable landscapes shape the perspectives of those who experience them.
science
Are There Plenty of Fish in the Sea? Ask an Elephant Seal.
In California, deep-diving marine mammals help scientists count how many fish live in the ocean's twilight zone.
ornithology collections
Birds-of-Paradise Can Emit Light Through Their Feathers
Scientists have found that many of the species known for their spectacular plumage are biofluorescent, meaning they absorb and release light through their bodies.
science
Found in the Seine: DNA From a Nearly Extinct Mussel
Scientists taking samples from the Parisian river didn't expect to find traces of shellfish that had all but disappeared from France.
cats
How Will California’s Wildfires Affect Wildlife?
From fleeing mountain lions to scorched soil, the aftermath of intense fires shows an ecosystem transformed.
architecture
Our Favorite New Places of 2024
We added nearly 2,000 places to the Atlas this year—these are 24 of our favorites.
exploration
Find Your Escape With Atlas Obscura’s Best Places to Travel in 2025
Leave the crowds behind with Where to Wander, our top destinations for local connections and transformative experiences.
nature
10 Bathrooms to Pee in Before You Die
From a floating restroom to a john encased in one-way glass, these toilets take using the facilities to a whole new level.
sports
10 Extraordinary Sports Around the World
From battling bathtubs to running with llamas, these sports are anything but average.
aliens
10 Places That Will Make You Believe Aliens Are Real
The truth is out there.
temples
10 Places That Feel Like Journeying Back in Time
Who needs a time machine?
caves
10 Places That Glow
The Earth puts on a massive rave.
hot springs
10 Places That Smell Like Nowhere Else
Follow your nose through these unique scentscapes.
abandoned
10 Surprising Sites in the World's Most Popular Cities
Find bird palaces, abandoned cave aquariums, and an island of severed doll heads hiding in these bustling cities.
bunkers
10 Places to Wait Out the End of the World
The end is always nigh.
exploration
The 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards Are Now Open!
Share your dream vacation to be included in Where to Wander 2025.
Immerse Yourself in Colorado's Charming Small Towns
Marvel at crisp blue skies, snow-capped hills, bustling breweries, and sparkling landscapes.
travel
Where to Wander: Atlas Obscura’s Best Places to Travel in 2024
Find wonder wherever you wander.
roadside attractions
10 Roadside Attractions Worth a Road Trip
These places offer way more than a pit stop.
mythology
10 Places to Visit If You Want to Believe in Bigfoot
Even if you’re not convinced cryptids exist, these spots will offer a fascinating look into the minds of those who are.
castles
10 Mind-Blowing Structures You Have to See for Yourself
Set your sights on the world’s most fascinating human-made wonders.
