Some places in America were once hot spots for American citizens and tourists alike. But over time, the shine these places once had has worn off or been abandoned. Here are some places that harken back to a bygone era.
Route 66
In 1926, Route 66 was finished being built and was seen as the highway to move from state to state. The highway connected Chicago to Los Angeles, which got countless traffic. However, with many Route 66 being bypassed by new interstates, the route has been largely left behind, leaving ghost towns.
Centralia, Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, a huge coal fire is still burning today. Centralia was an important mining town until an underground coal fire ignited in 1962. The town is abandoned due to toxic gases released by the fire. It’s an eerie reminder of catastrophe from America’s past.
Salton Sea, California
The Salton Sea was a luxury resort in California that brought many tourists and locals alike. But pollution caused many of the local fish to die out and caused tourists to leave due to health concerns. Today, the resort is abandoned, with the buildings decaying where tourism once flourished.
Glenrio, Texas/New Mexico
Glenrio was a stop on Route 66 where travelers could rest and enjoy services like motels and cafes. Much like other towns along Route 66, Glenrio was bypassed by Interstate 40 and has fallen into disrepair. The streets that were once full of travelers are now empty.
Bodie, California
Many mining towns boomed in the 1800s with the gold rush. One mining town called Bodie once flourished, but as the gold mine dried up, the town slowly but surely became abandoned. By the 1940s, there were barely any people, and today, Bodie State Historic Park preserves the town exactly how it’s been left.
Fort Ord, California
Now just an abandoned military installation with a mixture of decaying buildings and overgrowth, Fort Ord was once a mighty U.S. Army base that served its purpose from 1917 to 1994. It was used during World War II and the Korean War. The place stands empty, where soldiers’ boots once echoed off the walls.
Gary, Indiana
The town of Gary in Indiana used to be a popular town with the largest steel mill in America. Many people lost their jobs due to economic decline and moved to other cities; Gary’s streets, churches, schools, and other buildings now stand empty. They are a forlorn reminder of more prosperous times.
Cahawba, Alabama
Once Alabama’s capital, Cahawba fell on hard times after disruptions from the Civil War and floods. By the 20th century, much of the town was abandoned. Today, it’s an archaeological park where people can learn about its rich history.
Bannerman Castle
Located on Pollepel Island in the Hudson River, Bannerman Castle was built in the early 1900s by Francis Bannerman VI, who used it as a storage facility for military surplus. The castle became a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its unique architecture and scenic views.
Sources:
These Historic Sites in the U.S. Were Once Endangered. Now They’re Thriving
America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places: A Retrospective Guide
