The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Rachel Burlington, the curator of Portland’s International Rose Test Garden, shares the fascinating history of this floral haven, home to over 10,000 rose bushes. During WWI, Portland aimed to protect European roses, but Rachel discovered that the story behind this mission isn’t quite as it seems. The discussion dives into the city’s rivalry with Tacoma and Seattle for the proud title of 'City of Roses.' Listeners also learn about innovative cultivation techniques that produce unique rose varieties, showcasing the garden's significance in horticultural innovation.

Discover the enchanting Cramond Island, a tidal treasure in Edinburgh that has captivated a lifelong adventurer. Explore its WWII relics and rugged beauty, revealing a rich tapestry of history and memory. The discussion reflects on the island's unique blend of nature and technology, emphasizing its isolation and the importance of natural landscapes in a world of rapid change. Personal stories about childhood intrigue create a vivid connection to this mysterious isle, making it a place where imagination meets the tranquility of the wild.

As summer fades, hosts reflect on family travels filled with unforgettable memories. They share tales of minor league baseball games, lively dance-offs, and breathtaking landscapes from Reba, Denmark. Listeners are invited to recall their own travel experiences with kids, both the hilarious and heartfelt. Tales of adventures in Alaska under the midnight sun add a nostalgic touch, encouraging a sense of community among fellow travelers.

A once-blacklisted Hollywood star created a magical theater in Topanga Canyon, California, that still endures and inspires today.READ MORE IN THE ATLAS: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/theatricum-botanicum Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Ystad, Sweden, every night at 9pm a night watchman scans the horizon for fires from the tower of St Mary’s Church, and sounds his trumpet to let the city know it is safe. This tradition goes back to the Medieval Ages. The Night Watchman of Ystad is one of the last keeping his tradition, and today his role has taken on an even bigger significance. Author and journalist Eliot Stein takes us through the evolution of the night watchman. Read more in Eliot’s book, Custodians of Wonder. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Meet Ken Sanders, a passionate bookseller and environmental activist, whose life mission has been to challenge the Glen Canyon Dam. Inspired by a thrilling Western novel, he blends humor and daring acts to fight for the Colorado River's freedom. The discussion dives into the evolution of radical environmentalism, the dangers of a historic flood, and the personal journey of navigating identity in a religious landscape. Find out how activism and literature intertwine against the backdrop of climate change and hope for a revitalized landscape.

In the 1920s, Henry Ford decided to create a rubber plantation in the Amazon rainforest, and alongside it, a tidy little town for his workers: Fordlandia. With its classic American homes and yards, sidewalks and electric streetlights, Fordlandia was a Midwestern anomaly in the Brazilian jungle, one that dazzled American visitors. And it might have actually been a decent place to live – if it weren’t governed by Henry Ford’s rigid and peculiar rules for a wholesome society.Read more in Fordlandia: The Rise and Fall of Henry Ford's Forgotten Jungle City by Greg Grandin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dylan and producers Amanda and Johanna take listener questions. If you have a question for our next mailbag episode, give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave a message. You can also record a voice memo and email it to us at Hello@AtlasObscura.com, or simply email your question. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We journey into New York City’s delis and bodegas, in search of a famous – and controversial – sandwich: the chopped cheese. This sandwich has become a cultural symbol and source of debate, and is so storied that some might call it a “folk sandwich.” Plus, we dig into the rich history of the corner store culture where the chopped cheese originated.    This episode was produced in partnership with NYC Tourism.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One of the last remaining World War II Victory Gardens in the U.S is quietly growing across from Boston’s Fenway Park.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.