If you're planning a move to Tucson, Arizona, or perhaps just visiting, you shouldn't go away without seeing what Time Life calls: "one of the 50 wonders of the world." They're referring, of course, to Biosphere 2, a massive autonomous indoor environment owned by the University of Arizona. Located only a short drive away in Oracle, Arizona, it's so amazing that even famous people like Dennis Gartman would be impressed. If you'd like to learn more and plan a visit, consult our guide for the information you need.

Biosphere 2 is actually the only project of its kind. The number 2 comes from the fact that there's already an existing biosphere - the Earth. Spread over more than three acres, Biosphere 2 is a complete ecosystem enclosed by glass. It is designed to mimic the Earth's biosphere, which gives us so many wonderful things, like food and cloth diapers. Underneath the more than 7 million square feet of glass you'll find all the environments you'll find on earth, from coral oceans to mangrove swamps.

Biosphere 2 was designed with science in mind, specifically the science of how human beings might someday live on another planet, like Mars. It was originally designed and built by a private company called Joint Space Ventures, which conducted several experiments where people were sealed inside to live. It's like a more scientific version of TV's Survivor, with scientists participating instead of an event planner Toronto and a bartender from Tucson. The facility has since changed hands several times.

You can now visit the biosphere and learn all about the science taking place there. If you're looking for an alternative to vacationing on the same Philadelphia spa package you get every year, the biosphere is a once in a lifetime sight. You can go on a tour inside the biosphere and see its wonders with your own eyes. You can go underneath to the technosphere and see the extreme machines needed to keep the biosphere functioning. You can see a movie in the theater, explore multimedia displays, and visit the bookstore and cafe for a snack and some souvenirs.

The biosphere is a great place to take kids, as it's highly educational and interesting, even for kids who get antsy sitting for five minutes at the Toronto bed & breakfast. The tour is not accessible, though, so be aware of that if you're in a wheelchair or need to bring a stroller. The biosphere does group tours and school tours and runs numerous programs you can sign up for if you live here, including training for teachers and regular Saturday science lectures. Regular admission costs $20 with discounts available for young people, seniors, the military, students, and groups.