Gary, Indiana

Gary is quite a unique place considering the diversity and quantity of abandoned buildings in such a relatively small city footprint. Abandoned hotels, schools, apartments, post office, theater, and more can be found here if you're willing to take the risks of wandering into some pretty seedy places. My first visit in 2005 was relatively short, since we were battling the setting sun and time constraints to make it to Chicago - but seeing the City Methodist was nothing short of amazing. Trying to catch everything before the sun set made for a rushed experience, but there was still a feeling of serenity and calm inside the building. Afterwards, it was an enjoyable ride to Chicago as one can see the massive Gary steelworks in operation from the elevated highway.