How To Find Abandoned Places Near You- (2023) UPDATED!

Are you curious about exploring the hidden world of abandoned places? Do you want to uncover the mysteries and stories behind derelict buildings? If so, you’re not alone. Urban exploration, or urbex, has become a popular hobby for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike. But the question remains: how do you find abandoned places near you? In this guide, we will walk you through various methods and tools to help you discover these forgotten treasures. From online research to joining urban exploration tours, we’ve got you covered. So grab your flashlight and let’s begin our journey into the unknown.

Spotting Abandoned Buildings in Your Everyday Life

Sometimes, the best way to find abandoned places is to keep your eyes open as you go about your daily routine. You’d be surprised how many derelict buildings are hiding in plain sight. Look out for bright signs that ironically shout “KEEP OUT” or fences that surround neglected structures. These can be telltale signs of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Trust your instincts and follow your curiosity when something catches your eye.

Online Research: Forums, Blogs, and News Articles

The internet is a treasure trove of information when it comes to finding abandoned places. Start by joining forums and Facebook groups dedicated to urban exploration. These communities can provide valuable insights and leads to hidden locations. While people may not share exact addresses, you can find clues in photos and discussions that can point you in the right direction.

Another useful online research method is to search for “abandoned places in [your location].” This simple Google search can yield some promising results. Blogs, like the ones on Discover.re, often provide detailed accounts of abandoned places that the authors have explored. While they may not disclose exact locations, reading through these blogs can give you a good starting point for your own research. Local online newspapers may also publish articles about derelict buildings, especially if there have been incidents like fires. These articles can collate reports from urban explorers and provide valuable insights.

To narrow down your search and find the exact location of an abandoned building, consider using auction listings and historic building listings. These resources can help pinpoint precise locations and provide additional information about accessibility and other relevant details. For more specific leads, websites like 28dayslater.co.uk and derelictplaces.co.uk offer forums where you can search by area or county to get started. Remember to do your own research and avoid directly asking for locations, as this is generally frowned upon in the urban exploration community.

How To Find Abandoned Places: Google Maps

While starting from scratch and scouring satellite views on Google Maps may not be the most efficient method, it can be incredibly useful if you have a vague idea of a building’s location. Use Google Maps to bridge the gap between knowing a road name or general area to finding precise coordinates. Look for signs of dereliction, such as overgrown weeds, fences, and crumbling rooftops, as they stand out in satellite views. Once you’ve identified a potential site, switch to Street View to get a closer look at the ground level. This combination of satellite imagery and Street View can help you confirm if a building is abandoned and plan your exploration accordingly.

Joining Urban Exploration Tours

If you’re new to urban exploration or exploring unfamiliar territory, joining an urban exploration tour can be a great option. These tours provide local knowledge about locations, history, and laws, making it easier for you to navigate and access remote sites. For example, Urbex Tour offers guided tours in various locations, such as a Soviet Nuclear Bunker in Kiev or drainage systems in the same city. Similarly, Abandoned Bulgaria organizes tours in and around Sofia. These tours provide a unique opportunity to explore with expert guides and ensure that you are within legal boundaries.

Urban Exploration Tours and Ticketed Sites

Urban exploration isn’t always about trespassing and sneaking into abandoned buildings. Some sites are open to the public for guided tours or on specific open days. These ticketed sites offer the advantage of having a guide and a safer environment to explore. While visiting these sites may not provide the same thrill as discovering your own way into an abandoned building, they offer access to unique locations that are not typically accessible. For example, you can explore abandoned tube stations or World War II shelters on official tours. These guided experiences can be fascinating and provide valuable historical and architectural insights.

Safety and Legal Considerations

Before embarking on your urban exploration adventures, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and stay within the bounds of the law. Urban exploration can be exciting, but it also carries risks. Familiarize yourself with the legalities of urban exploration in your area. Laws regarding trespassing and property damage can vary, so it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities. Check out our comprehensive guide on staying within the law and the dangers of urban exploration for more information. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when exploring abandoned places.

Conclusion

Finding abandoned places near you requires a combination of curiosity, research, and a sense of adventure. By keeping your eyes open in your everyday life, conducting online research, utilizing tools like Google Maps, joining urban exploration tours, and visiting ticketed sites, you can uncover the hidden world of derelict buildings. Just remember to stay safe, respect the law, and leave only footprints behind. So go out there and explore the forgotten stories that lie within the walls of abandoned places. Happy exploring!