The Hidden Views of New York
“This type of stunt is called urbex — short for urban exploration which refers to the exploration of man-made structures, often abandoned or forgotten, such as old factories, tunnels, derelict buildings, and underground spaces. Urbex enthusiasts typically explore these sites to capture photographs, document history, or simply experience a sense of adventure.”
New York City is known for its huge subway transportation system and all the beautiful scenery in the big apple. This is cool and all, but what's really interesting is the history and places left behind in such a big city, such as abandoned buildings and abandoned train stations. This is what is interesting because it's been put in the past, but it still remains in the present day — closed off to the public.
You may have come across multiple videos regarding this topic on social platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, where people go into these places and post online, probably catching the curiosity of you or many others! There are multiple spots that are located in the city such as in Times Square, Governors Island, Canal St, Chinatown, and even inside the Bronx. These places are closed off to the public for multiple safety and federal reasons such as risking injuries which means putting the risk of your safety and even catching police involvement by trespassing since these are protected by law. This type of stunt is called urbex — short for urban exploration which refers to the exploration of man-made structures, often abandoned or forgotten, such as old factories, tunnels, derelict buildings, and underground spaces. Urbex enthusiasts typically explore these sites to capture photographs, document history, or simply experience a sense of adventure.
This might entice some people to try this, but to give a reality check — you shouldn’t try this without any expertise. It requires walking in underground dark tunnels, making you have to keep a sharp eye and instinct, when walking over life-threatening railings and moving trains. This is why you have to know what you're doing before committing these acts because the majority of us are in the senior year, meaning we are about to be 18 or already are. This would mean we would be registered as an adult and could be charged as one. If you get caught doing this, you luckily could get left off with a warning, but in serious cases you can be charged with reckless endangerment, trespassing, breaking and entering, and even vandalism, since many people do go to these places to leave a tag or mural with spray paint.
I know people who have experienced these stunts. There’s an adrenaline rush such people feel, knowing how dangerous it can be to put themselves in these situations, but I also know they make sure to do it the safest way by learning from other teens who are heavily experienced and can pass on their knowledge.
When being inside these places that include hospitals, factories, churches, and even apartment buildings, it is really scary since you really have to keep any eye out — you never know what could be inside these places, which is scary when having your back turnt at any moment. This is why many urbex explorers go in groups of 3 or more to collect a sense of relief. Other than that, when being inside these places, it's so cool to look around because it's just something you can't really explain but just are left mesmerized by, leaving people to take pictures and post online. These people I know have yet to encounter any trouble with law, but I don't encourage it at all, since it's not the smartest thing to do if you're not familiar with this type of exploration.
If you ever do want to explore the city, I highly recommend going to abandoned spots that are outside and mainly open to the public such as a tour that is given by the MTA itself.
This tour lets you explore the Brooklyn Bridge City Hall platform that has been out of usage for 80 years and gives looks to old train carts. If you ever want to explore the more hidden areas I highly advise you to go with someone who knows a answer to every possible scenario to keep yourself safe.