The Best Way to Find Abandoned Buildings
Exploring abandoned buildings can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It can also be quite daunting and difficult, however, if you don’t know how to find them. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to locate abandoned buildings.
In this blog post, I will discuss the best way to find abandoned buildings and provide tips on how to go about exploring them safely.
Best Way to Find Abandoned Buildings
Drive through neighborhoods and find houses that appear to be abandoned. Go on the cities assessor’s records site and find out who the owner is.
Check the land records office data (Registry of Deeds), and probate court records to see if the owner is deceased. Pull that file, find out who the heirs are and then call them or send a letter. If the owner is a bank, forget it. You will never get through to anyone. They will do a sale or auction on their own schedule.
1. Take Your Time to Do the Foot Work
For those with a sense of adventure, urban exploration, also known as infiltrating, offers a thrilling way to uncover the secrets of abandoned buildings.
By taking matters into your own hands and doing the legwork yourself, you can embark on a journey of discovery to find hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether on foot or by car, the thrill of the hunt awaits as you seek out these forgotten structures and delve into their intriguing histories.
However, before venturing into the world of urban exploration, it’s essential to prioritize safety above all else. Never embark on an exploration alone—always bring a companion to ensure you have support and assistance if needed. Additionally, conduct thorough research on the building beforehand to confirm its abandonment status and assess potential risks such as squatters or structural instability.
Once you arrive at the site, take your time to absorb the atmosphere and document your findings. Capture the essence of the building through photographs and detailed notes, preserving its story before it fades away into obscurity. Stay vigilant and be prepared for any unexpected events that may arise during your exploration, ensuring your safety and peace of mind throughout the journey.
Urban exploration offers an exciting opportunity to connect with the past and uncover the hidden narratives of abandoned buildings. With careful planning, preparation, and a spirit of adventure, you can embark on a journey of discovery that not only enriches your own experiences but also preserves the history of these forgotten places for generations to come.
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2. Check Out Your City or Town’s Website
Exploring your local government website can be a goldmine for discovering abandoned buildings ripe for urban exploration (urbex) adventures. Many towns and cities maintain listings of derelict properties, including those slated for auction or demolition. This valuable resource not only provides a wealth of information about abandoned places in your area but also offers insights into their history and current status.
By perusing these listings, you can uncover hidden gems waiting to be explored and delve into the stories behind these forgotten structures. From historic landmarks to industrial sites, the possibilities for exploration are endless. Some city websites even feature interactive maps with pins marking the locations of abandoned buildings, offering a visual guide to aid in your quest.
Whether you’re a seasoned urban explorer or a newcomer to the world of urbex, checking out your local government website is an excellent starting point for planning your next adventure. With a bit of research and curiosity, you can embark on a journey of discovery that reveals the hidden treasures of your community’s past and present. So fire up your browser and start exploring—your next urbex adventure awaits!
3. Look for ‘Abandoned’ or ‘Derelict’ Properties on Google Maps
Urban exploration, commonly known as urbex, offers an exciting opportunity to uncover hidden treasures in the form of abandoned buildings. Google Maps serves as a valuable tool for locating these forgotten structures quickly and easily.
To begin your search, simply input keywords such as ‘abandoned’ or ‘derelict’ into the Google Maps search bar. You can also try terms like ‘urbex’ or ‘urban exploration’ to narrow down your results. Zoom in on the map to explore the area in more detail, as larger abandoned buildings may be readily visible while smaller structures may require a closer look.
Keep an eye out for telltale signs of abandonment such as graffiti, broken windows, and signs of decay, which can often be spotted from a distance. Utilize Google Street View to get a closer look at the building and assess its condition before planning an exploration.
Before venturing into any abandoned property, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and ensure that you are not trespassing on private property. Check local laws and regulations regarding urbex activities and obtain permission if necessary. Respecting property rights and safety protocols is essential to ensure a positive and lawful urbex experience.
By leveraging the power of Google Maps and exercising caution and respect, you can embark on an urban exploration adventure and uncover fascinating abandoned places right in your own backyard. With a bit of luck and some detective work, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an experienced urban explorer!
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4. Ask Around Town
Engaging with the local community is indeed a valuable way to discover hidden gems in the form of abandoned buildings. By talking to residents, historians, and fellow enthusiasts, you can uncover fascinating stories and locations that may not be readily apparent through other means.
Start by striking up conversations with locals in your community. Ask about any abandoned places or urban exploration activities they may be aware of, as they may have valuable insights and recommendations. Additionally, reaching out to local historians and longtime residents can provide a wealth of information about the history and significance of abandoned buildings in the area.
Online forums and discussion boards dedicated to urban exploration are also excellent resources for connecting with like-minded individuals and discovering new locations. By joining these communities, you can share tips, swap stories, and even organize group explorations with fellow enthusiasts.
However, it’s essential to prioritize safety at all times when exploring abandoned buildings. These spaces can pose various risks, including structural instability, environmental hazards, and potential encounters with trespassers or wildlife. Always explore with a companion, research the location beforehand, and adhere to local laws and regulations.
With a combination of curiosity, caution, and community engagement, you can embark on a thrilling urban exploration adventure and uncover the rich history and hidden treasures of abandoned buildings in your area.
In conclusion, the pursuit of urban exploration and the discovery of abandoned buildings offer an intriguing blend of adventure, history, and mystery.
From scouring online resources and engaging with local communities to embarking on independent research and reconnaissance, there are numerous avenues for enthusiasts to uncover hidden gems waiting to be explored. However, it is crucial to approach this endeavor with caution, respect, and a thorough understanding of legal and safety considerations.
Urban exploration is more than just a hobby—it’s a journey of discovery that allows individuals to connect with the past, explore the present, and imagine the future.
By delving into the stories behind abandoned buildings, we gain insight into the evolving landscapes of our cities and communities. From forgotten factories and derelict hospitals to abandoned homes and ghost towns, each location has its own unique history and allure, waiting to be revealed to those willing to seek it out.
Through careful research and preparation, urban explorers can navigate the complexities of abandoned buildings with safety and responsibility in mind. Whether utilizing online resources, consulting local historians, or engaging with the community, there are countless opportunities to uncover hidden treasures and unlock the mysteries of abandoned spaces.
However, it’s essential to remember that urban exploration comes with risks, both physical and legal. Structural instability, environmental hazards, and potential encounters with trespassers or law enforcement are just a few of the challenges that explorers may face. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize safety at all times, adhere to legal guidelines, and respect the rights of property owners and their heirs.
In essence, urban exploration offers a window into the past, a canvas for creativity, and a source of inspiration for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity.
By approaching this endeavor with respect, responsibility, and a spirit of exploration, enthusiasts can embark on a journey of discovery that not only enriches their own lives but also preserves the history and heritage of abandoned buildings for generations to come.
So, whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a novice enthusiast, let the quest for abandoned buildings be a catalyst for discovery, connection, and adventure in the urban landscape.
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