My name is John Bourscheid. I’m an avid explorer, and the owner of Killer Urbex. I will be your guide to the incredible and dangerous world of urban exploration, often shortened to “urbex”.
This resource was created after I had trouble finding interesting abandoned places near me. My goal is to assist urban explorers in finding new locations. I do this in a clean and minimal format, while also promoting safe, ethical urban exploration.
This is done without divulging exact locations of these abandoned places. Think of Killer Urbex as a resource for what can be found, instead of directions for exactly how to get there.

Our Recommendations
Whether you are new to urban exploration or an urbex veteran, I’ve found that it is always best to first see what abandoned places there are near you. Few legitimate, updated resources exist online for this. You’re currently on one of them.
Top Locations In All 50 States
Visit my Locations By State page for the most comprehensive state-by-state listing of abandoned spots online. I provide a location history, current status, and clues for how to find each of the almost 1,000 individual abandoned places reviewed.
Specific Location Categories
For more specific overviews of different types of abandoned places, check out the following guides for urban exploration locations, pointers, and recommendations:
- Explore Dead Malls and Hotels
- Discover Hospitals and Insane Asylums
- Check out Schools and Plane Wreckage
- Enjoy Water Parks and Theme Parks
- Find abandoned Churches and Mansions
- Carefully explore Storm Drains and Tunnels

Gear Guides and Other Resources
It’s important to equip yourself with the right gear. I have a list of recommended gear guides here. These come with full reviews and testing protocols. Additionally, I have recommended tours, YouTube channels, and documentaries to broaden your horizons.
Finally, there are ample additional resources and guides available on Killer Urbex. Just scratching the surface, I suggest:
- How To Find Abandoned Places
- The Most Important Tips and Rules for Urban Exploration
- Avoiding Trespassing (and knowing Trespassing Laws)
- What is Urban Exploration?
- Urbex Photography Tips and Tricks
- Top Tips for New Urban Explorers
- Why Not To Explore Alone
- Getting Permission To Explore Abandoned Places
Final Thoughts on Urban Exploration
However you decide to navigate Killer Urbex, keep in mind the most important thing when it comes to exploring abandoned places in your adventures:
Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.
Popularized by the US National Park Service