Dead Places

Abandoned buildings, mines, storm drains and tunnels have become the playground for a new generation of urban explorers.

1 minute read

October 21, 2003, 10:00 AM PDT

By David Gest


"As economies and demographics shift away from manufacturing…thousands of buildings, tunnels and drains are left empty...[the] frontier has turned inside out: Now a great wilderness lies inside what we have created, used, altered, forgotten and discovered again." Around the world, motivated by curiosity and a love of storytelling, intrepid adventurers have infiltrated this urban wilderness and documented their haunting travels. The practice has become known as urban exploration, or "the investigation of human-made structures not designed for public consumption." Recently, the large web presence of urban exploration sites has allowed the less daring to virtually experience the abandoned locations.

Thanks to David Gest

Thursday, October 16, 2003 in Salt Lake City Weekly

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog