Urbexology

Exploring Abandoned Places: A Beginner's Guide to Urban Exploration

Access the interactive urbex map! 🌎

Exploring Abandoned Places: A Beginner’s Guide to Urban Exploration

Are you intrigued by abandoned buildings and forgotten places? Urban exploration, also known as urbex, is the hobby of exploring abandoned man-made structures and urban areas. It can be an exciting and adventurous way to uncover hidden history and see the world in a different light. If you’d like to give it a try, here’s a beginner’s guide to urban exploration.

Safety first

Before you begin your adventure, it’s important to prioritize safety. Abandoned buildings can be dangerous, so it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself. Here are a few tips :

  • Always wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and long pants to protect your feet and legs from debris, nails, and other hazards.
  • Bring a flashlight and never enter a dark space without one.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch where you are stepping. Some abandoned buildings may have fragile floors or unstable structures.
  • Avoid touching or disturbing anything inside an abandoned building, as it may be unstable or contain hazardous materials.

Find your location

Before you go exploring, it’s important to do your research. Find out as much as you can about the place you plan to visit. Some places may be prohibited or subject to legal restrictions, so be sure not to break any laws.

Here are some resources to help you find your location:

  • Online forums and urbex communities: join an online community to connect with other explorers and get advice on the best places to visit.
  • Google Maps and Street View: Use Google Maps to get a satellite view of the area and Street View to get a virtual tour of the location.
  • Local Historical Societies: Contact your local historical society to find out more about the history of the area and any monuments or buildings that may be of interest to you.

Plan your route

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to plan your itinerary. Make a map of the location and plan your route before setting off. It’s important to have a plan in case you get lost or need to get away quickly.

Here are some tips for planning your itinerary:

  • Start at the outer perimeter of the building and work your way inward.
  • Look for access points, such as broken windows or unlocked doors, but be careful when entering.
  • Take note of any hazards or obstacles, such as broken stairs or unstable floors.

Be respectful

Urban exploration can be a fun and exciting adventure, but it’s important to remember to be respectful of where you’re exploring. Do not damage or vandalize anything inside the building and do not take anything with you when you leave.

Here are some tips to be respectful during your urbex adventure:

  • Take only pictures and leave only footprints.
  • Do not disturb anything inside the building, such as furniture or artifacts.
  • Obey any sign or barrier indicating that an area is prohibited.