WARNING: This story contains the descriptions of off-limits places where people are not allowed to go. Listen, but watch your step. Things could get dangerous.
For even the most seasoned travelers—the ones who have been to every state and every continent—there are still places that for whatever reason—be they geographical, political, or even for your own personal safety—you just can’t visit.
We’re taking you all the way from Snake Island in Brazil to the Vatican Archives to find out what makes these places off limits. Lonely Planet destinations editor Ben Buckner joins in to explain his favorite places no one is allowed to go, and aerospace historian Peter Merlin even discusses the mystery site of Area 51.
At Ripley’s, we’re always in search of the unbelievable – maybe it’s you! Show us your talents. Tell us a strange story or a weird fact. Share your unbelievable art with us. Maybe even sell us something that could become a part of Ripley’s collection!
Get lost in a vortex of weird and wonderful stories! Ripley’s twenty-first edition annual book is full of all-new, all-true stories from around the world.
In 2024, Nike revealed a shoe inspired by the Green Goblin, the villain from the 2002 "Spider-Man" movie.
Robert Ripley began the Believe It or Not! cartoon in 1918. Today, Kieran Castaño is the eighth artist to continue the legacy of illustrating the world's longest-running syndicated cartoon!