Abandoned Structures Near Me : How to Find and Explore Them
Urban exploration, or urbex, has grown massively in popularity. Adventurers around the world are searching for abandoned buildings to explore near me, deserted places near me, and abandoned structures near me. But how can you locate these forgotten places safely and responsibly?
This guide will show you how to find these places, how to explore them responsibly, and where to get high-quality maps to take your explorations further.
Table of Contents
- Use Specialized Urbex Maps
- Search on Google Maps (Satellite View)
- Explore Social Media for Clues
- Join Forums and Urbex Communities
- Stay Safe and Respect the Law
- Summary Table of Methods
How to Find Abandoned Structures Near You
Here are the most effective ways to locate urban ruins or abandoned places around your area :
1. Use Specialized Urbex Maps
Session Urbex provides dedicated maps designed for explorers in the United States of America (USA) (U.S), United Kingdom (UK), and Canada, … These maps :
- Regularly updated to ensure accurate info.
- Highlight legal access spots for safe exploration.
- Cover all kinds of categories: abandoned amusement parks, schools, hospitals, factories, and more.
- Perfect for beginners and experienced explorers.
Explore the maps from Session Urbex to uncover hidden gems near you.
2. Use Google Maps (Satellite Mode)
Even without specialized maps, Google Maps can help you find abandoned buildings to explore near me, Zoom in on industrial or rural areas. Look for :

- Use satellite view to spot crumbling roofs, overgrown vegetation, and empty parking lots.
- Switch to Street View to check if the building is boarded up or clearly unused.
- Look around industrial zones, rural roads, or suburbs in decline.
Search tips : « Abandoned house near me », « Vacant properties in [Your City] », « Derelict buildings [Your State] »
💡 Tip: This method takes patience, but it’s free and effective if you know what to look for.

3. Social Media Platforms (Instagram, YouTube, TikTok)
Many urban explorers share content without giving exact locations, but you can find clues for abandoned stuff near me :
- Look for hashtags like #urbex, #abandonedplaces, #abandonedhouse
- Scan video backgrounds for street signs, landmarks, or unique building features
- Follow local urbex creators for inspiration and hints
Some popular channels or creators even cover specific regions or countries, which can help narrow down your search.
4. Forums and Urbex Communities
💬 Communities on Reddit, Facebook, or Discord can offer valuable advice. Check out :
- Google “urbex forum [your country]”
- Reddit: r/urbanexploration
- Facebook groups & Discord channels
- Local urbex forums in your area

⚠️ Note: Communities often share general advice rather than GPS coordinates to protect locations and respect the urbex code of ethics.
5. Important : Stay Safe & Respect the Law
Urban exploration isn’t without risks. Here’s what to remember :
Be aware : in some countries like the USA, property owners may be armed. Respect signs and stay cautious.
- Check property ownership: trespassing is illegal. In some countries, owners may be armed.
- Go with a friend, especially in remote areas.
- Wear protective gear: gloves, mask, boots.
- Never take anything and avoid causing damage.
- Digital safety: don’t broadcast your exact location live online (read our privacy guide).
6. Summary Table of Methods
| Method | Advantages | Precautions | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialized Urbex Maps | Accurate info, legal access points | Verify updates | Session Urbex Maps |
| Google Maps (Satellite) | Free, precise | Requires patience and observation | Google Maps |
| Social Media | Inspiration, clues | Don’t follow blindly | Instagram, TikTok |
| Urbex Communities | Local tips, advice | Respect the code of ethics | r/urbanexploration |
Conclusion
Finding abandoned buildings to explore near me or deserted places near me requires patience, observation, and the right tools. By using maps, social media, and community knowledge, you can discover hidden spots safely and enjoy your urbex adventures in France.
For more guidance, check out our other SessionUrbex guides :
