There’s something about abandoned buildings and historical places that compels people from around the world to visit them. Is it their spooky aura? Their romance? Their history? Whether you’re looking to get goosebumps or stand mouth-gaping at architecture, you can’t miss this list of the best abandoned sites to see around the globe.
1. Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park — Seoul
You certainly don’t have to worry about waiting in any long lines at this theme park—because it’s been out of business for more than 30 years. Is 30 years enough to attract ghosts? Yongma employees think so. For just $5, you can roam the decayed theme park, climb old rides, and take some creepy photos. Rumor has is that for about $25, the owner will turn on the merry-go-round for you after dark. The photo accompanying this post is from Yongma Land.
2. Kaluakoi Resort — Molokai Ranch, Hawaii
This resort might have been vacant for less time than Yongma Land, but Kaluakoi Resort, on Insider’s list of 35 abandoned places in the U.S., is equally worth visiting. After going through a few owners, the resort was deserted after it went bankrupt. Lucky for you, the vacant buildings are anything but a wasteland. In fact, the crumbling architecture is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and lush palm trees, giving this abandoned site a contrasting landscape you won’t find elsewhere.
3. The Maunsell Forts — England
Ten miles from the Thames Estuary in England sits a series of abandoned forts on stilts. These forts were once used during World War II to house guns but are now available to the public to visit via boat trip with Project Redsand.
4. Power Plant IM — Belgium
Once the biggest coal burning power plant in Belgium, Power Plant IM is an awe-inspiring destination for anyone interested in eerie architecture. The plant was built in 1912 but was shut down in 2007 after a long-standing Greenpeace protest against the plant’s high carbon dioxide emissions. No tours of this space are available, so you’ll have to investigate alone. Don’t forget a flashlight!
The allure of exploring abandoned buildings is different for everyone. And it may be illegal in some places due to safety or trespassing concerns. But one thing’s for sure—visiting one of these four abandoned sites will make for a much more interesting vacation tale than a trip to the Bahamas.