Need something new and different to do on the weekends but don’t want to spend too much money?  May I suggest a little urban exploration.  There’s something about venturing into the unknown and finding abandoned buildings with a group of friends.

Some go to get a thrill, some go to find cool things, and others are interested in finding the beauty of what is no longer what it used to be.  I’ve been on many excursions to old abandoned buildings – some at night, some during the day.  Usually the ones at night were intended for us to get a little adrenaline pumping instead of sitting bored in our dorms all day.  We would walk through, holding hands, heart pumping, always hoping that we’ll get spooked, but not TOO spooked.  No one wants to ACTUALLY pee themselves.

Day time adventures are my personal favorite because I can take pictures and actually see the building in natural lighting.  Although the buildings are losing their old looks, they’re gaining new characteristics such as vines and erosion that give them a unique, beautiful look.  There’s a rich history to be accounted for once you really take a look at them.  Each place has a story to tell.

So whether you’re looking for a little midnight scare or a spot to set your camera up, get out of your dorm get in your car, and drive.  Here are a few tips to help you on your next adventure.

1. Do your research.  The worst feeling is to hear that there is some awesome building at a specific location, which you drive all the way to, only to find that your information was out-of-date and now that building has been replaced by a Wendy’s.  So before loading up your car hop on your computer to make sure you’re not about to load up on carbs by consuming fries and burgers rather than feasting your eyes on some awesome urban decay.
2. Don’t get locked up.  Be careful.  No building is worth getting locked up for.
3. This tip is for those seeking a midnight scare.  Make sure to bring a solid group of friends.  Have a couple of guys (not just ones that act tough, but would scream like a girl at the sound of a creaking door) to put the more easily scared of the group at ease.
4. My last piece of advice is to bring some type of weapon just in case something DOES happen.  Perhaps a bat or pepper spray to ward off potential monsters.  If there is a ghost, ask if its name is Casper.  If it says no, I have no advice.  Ghost Busters?

Best of luck!