These miniature DIY houses are nearly too cute for words and make for the best distraction in 2020. Each house is fully handmade (even the mini books!) in any kit you choose. From greenhouses to veggie markets, there's something for everyone!

If you’re looking for an escape, look no further than “How to Astronaut: An Insider’s Guide to Leaving Planet Earth” by Terry Virts. From the essentials of survival training to the art of putting on your space suit, this book is the perfect gift for the cosmic explorer in your...

Created by chemist, botanist, caver, and online experience host, Tyler Thrasher (Tyler Thrasher Wonder Hour), this tool kit for young explorers doesn't just encourage kids to explore the natural world, it gives them the tools to do it right!

Our online courses inspire wonder about the world, all from the comfort of home. Whether your interest is gravestones, cheese, ancient recipes, building miniatures, or composing experimental music, we have something unique for everyone. Give your friends or loved ones a way to explore their obsessions and curiosities today. *Valid...

Written by Dino 101 host Dustin Growick, this book catalogs more than 150 dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures—listed in alphabetical order from Abelisaurus to Zuniceratops. The perfect gift for kiddos as young as five!

In short, this fragrance smells like books. In the words of Powell's Books themselves, "this scent contains the lives of countless heroes and heroines. Apply to the pulse points when seeking sensory succor or a brush with immortality."

New York Times bestseller, now in paperback!“A thrillingly imaginative expedition to 100 weird-but-true places on earth.”—The New York Times Book ReviewFor curious kids, this is the chance to embark on the journey of a lifetime—and see how faraway countries have more in common than you might expect! Hopscotch from country to...

Bringing seafood on a long-haul flight may irritate your seatmate for reasons of malodorousness. Solution: shrimp pillow. This soft and comfy neck-encircler brings all the appeal of the briny sea with none of the rough surfaces associated with actual crustaceans.

Ella Morton Contributing Editor

I have this poster hanging above my desk and frequently find myself lost in it. Who knew Kazakhstan was so big? Or that Belgium was so tiny?

Tyler Cole VP, Community

This isn’t just any old how-to book. For the curious scientist in your life, we recommend “Black Hole Survival Guide” by astrophysicist Janna Levin. Understand and find delight in the black hole in this endlessly fascinating book about one of space’s most unique phenomenas.

These "Mystery Bags" contain a variety of souvenirs, such as shot glasses, keychains, and magnets all centered around a specific travel destination. Travel wasn't on the agenda for most of us in 2020, so if you're looking for a fun way to take a safe "trip around the world" with...

Color-changing, camouflaging, ink-cloud concealing cephalopods are basically the closest thing we have on earth to real-life shapeshifters. I loved learning all about these mysterious creatures from cephalopod expert—and AO trip leader—Sarah MacAnulty, all while calmly coloring the tentacles of a giant squid. 

Rachel Bouton Program Manager, Group and Co-Branded Experiences

If you must begin the day with an alarm, perhaps try the "natural wake-up" provided by this ingenious sunrise-simulating machine.