The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Astrobiologist Dr. Graham Lau and science writer Rebecca Boyle partake in a game show, guessing real or fake exotic locations. Topics include soil vending machines, radon spas, space mountaineering, and cosmic phenomena. The episode wraps up with a guessing game about tall cliffs in the solar system.

Rick Steves, the European travel expert, shares stories of his life shaping adventures from Wyoming to Europe. Reflecting on transformative travel experiences, philosophy, and advocacy for marijuana legalization. A mix of humor and insightful travel anecdotes throughout.

A skeptical scientist investigates the mystery of the Brown Mountain Lights, exploring UFOs, ghosts, and natural gas as potential explanations. Sightings date back to the early 1900s with theories ranging from moonshiners to trains. Renewed interest led to a scientific working group aiming to capture concrete evidence. The enigmatic lights are compared to UFO sightings, emphasizing the ongoing pursuit to uncover their origins.

Discover the intriguing journey behind the construction of the world's biggest treehouse in Crossville, Tennessee, inspired by a divine vision. Learn about the man's journey from addiction to building a towering treehouse, adorned with religious motifs. Explore the mysterious fire that ended the treehouse's legacy, leaving behind transformative stories and lasting impact.

Diverse perspectives on anticipating the solar eclipse event, the cosmic dance of eclipses, magical moments of total solar eclipse in Arkansas, awe of witnessing a total solar eclipse with children

The podcast celebrates the Great North American Eclipse with a special episode in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Millions of people will witness this rare event, which won't happen again for 20 years. Host Dylan Thuras shares the excitement of being in the path of totality and encourages listeners to experience this extraordinary phenomenon

Explore the history of Basque dining traditions in Nevada, from sheepherders in the 1800s to family-style dining at The Martin. Learn about the cultural heritage of Basque immigrants in the American West and the influence on local cuisine. Experience the social connections and communal dining experience at The Martin, a historic gathering place in Nevada.

Explore an art installation in a Vegas shopping mall, closed as of April 2024. Discover the beauty of Wyoming and encounter a transformative experience in Vegas. Uncover the monumental land art near Las Vegas by artist Michael Heiser, prompting contemplation on the city's intricacies.

Las Vegas was a hotspot for watching nuclear bomb explosions; the episode explores atomic bomb testing history, cultural impacts, and the transition to underground testing. Learn about the National Atomic Testing Museum and the educational mission on atomic history.

Jessica Oreck, a collector of odd and forgotten objects, shares her unique perspective on curiosities and art. Explore the whimsical world of Jessica and her ambitious project to create a museum in Las Vegas. Delve into the diverse collections at the Office of Collecting and Design, from charming dice to tiny cups, all meticulously organized. Experience a transformation in perspective through a visit to the Museum of Collecting and Design, promoting adaptability and positive impacts.