Hi there! I was originally going to be coming over in March, then, for some reason, that trip didn't happen. What I really wanted to do was to see DS, but a) I get the impression it's not accessible at all now b) it may be even more so come May when I can make it over.

Is it worth even trying DS these days? I know the route, if I can only make it to the first part so be it, but I'd rather find an alternative if it's too dicey.

Are there other sites that are pretty accessible, both in terms of entry and getting there without a car? I've been looking at the parade float place - it might not be around come May but that looks like a good option. I have a medium format camera that's dying to be taken out so easy explore leads would be welcome (PM me as vague details as you like).

As someone from outside the area I know people are quite cagey about revealing details but I'm hoping someone can help. Don't worry, I'm way too short sighted to be a cop.

Should I just get the train down to Gary and forget the city limits?

DS used to be the go-to spot for every explorer in the city a few years back, but I've heard it has security guards nowadays. I only occasionally explore in Chicago but there's definitely some stuff left to see, though they did tear down Wrigley unfortunately. Gary's always a solid choice too, plenty to see and do there.

Posted by JiveBunny Should I just get the train down to Gary and forget the city limits?

Yes! Gary is a strange and wonderful place. You should definitely check it out - the South Shore is arguably the Last of the Interurbans, too. Certainly the last with street running.

Thanks - there's a couple of sites I like the look of in Gary, just the city's reputation is putting me off a bit as I'll be going alone. I assume it is actually safe as long as I'm not walking around with my gear hanging round my neck? The S&B factory looks interesting, but still trying to gauge the neighbourhood via Google Maps.

Fingers crossed they don't get torn down between now and then....

I'm out of the loop on most Chicago spots these days, but those I knew which were close to Metra or CTA stops are either sealed or demoed... some just this year. DS also has had security for a few years after turning into a tourist trap, where supposedly people were either getting killed or having to be rescued. They sit by the gate but sometimes patrol. Some still go to view the low-rise graffiti building, but to me it's not worth it anymore.

I hopped the South Shore trains to Gary for years and never had issues walking alone to the bigger spots, sometimes I took the bus from the Metro Center for stuff further away. Walk along the main roads and avoid going into the neighborhoods (Emerson, especially) for as long as you can, until you're about parallel to the spot. S&B is walkable, and you're along the highway the entire time. Either way, def hit stuff there while you can as the city wants most of it torn down soon, and is slowly beginning to act on it.

I'm in Chicago and have been going to Gary a few times a month since July. I've gone alone but prefer to have someone along with me. If you're down and the trip happens, I'd be happy to meet you there and explore with you! I really love that city; there's so much to see!

DS has had 24/7 security but going before daylight hours is pretty easy. Getting caught by guarded hired by the state of Illinois is risky, to say the least.

It's hard getting inside DS these days. Took a trip and sneaked inside about month and half ago. Was inside for 15 mins before Security found me. He blamed it on his staff lol. Only way inside without getting caught or if you want to explore, is a permit. Not worth the fun anymore!!

Gary is soooooooooooooooo fun, easy, and very big to explore! It's my old home town. I was just there 4 days ago, and my advise?? Explore quickly as you can because it seems like some stuff is being saved and getting ready to be demolished. Some of those places have been up and abandoned for a good 10 years.. I walk around by myself and had no problems. Sometimes I ask locals for info about folk being inside or any other news. Some places(like the schools and hospital) I advise you to be extra cautious just because its around some sketchy areas but for the most part, no one is even around so you should be safe in most areas! Going back by next week, I feel like some of the most popular places are gonna be demo soon.