There are numerous historical and fascinating abandoned places in Illinois, and some of them were formerly the most famous places in town; they were top-rated hospitals, schools, cities, factories, resorts, and hotels, among other things.
Because of their unique characteristics, several abandoned places in Illinois are preserved and well maintained. Some are historical but now abandoned, and on this blog, you’ll find a mix of both types of places that are must-see in 2022.
List of abandoned places in Illinois
1, Iron Furnace
It is a well-known ancient iron furnace that has become popular in the town since it was abandoned, but no one looks after it. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places as well.
It was erected in 1837 and abandoned in 1883, however it was used to smelt iron for many years. There is a picnic place nearby, as well as numerous photo opportunities in this woodland. It’s in the Shawnee National Forest.
The road-building in the 1930s severely destroyed this iron furnace, but it was restored. Even yet, it’s deserted and overgrown with strange flora.
2, Manteno State Hospital
It began as a psychiatry hospital in 1930 and lasted until 1985. During World War II, the hospital experienced many ups and downs, and there was a point when the government used to inject patients in order to find a treatment for malaria.
This is the hospital’s deepest secret, which only the residents are aware of. The hospital began to experience a significant increase in the number of patients, which was a major problem due to the inadequate staff available at the time. And, due of the high crime rate, hardly one wants to work here.
As a result, even a high school dropout is allowed to work here as a staff member because there is a huge demand for workers. Some of the structures have been demolished, while others remain standing. If there are no boards around, you can explore the building, and residents claim to have witnessed many ghostly phenomena here in the past.
3, Prairie Observatory
It was built in 1969 to gather space data, and it also had a 40-inch telescope that cost $245,000 when it was built. It has since been removed, but you can still see the old-style dome and the main structure of the building. It’s a fascinating abandoned location to visit.
To get here, you’ll need to take trekking paths, and the reason for its closure is unknown, although locals believe that a lack of money was the main issue, and that this could be the main cause for its abandonment.
There are no updates on the restoration or renovation of this location, but the massive work done draws notice and it is well-known in the neighbourhood. People come inside to take pictures and look at the vintage items and designs.
4, Sea World
It is abandoned with many memories of the locals who visit here in summers for enjoyment. And you can still see the water rides which is rusted & broken. It was operated by Sea World & Entertainment.
It was opened in May 1970 for public and it got abandoned in 2000. George Millay was the person who developed this place. It was one of the famous resort in the town and there was a time that it was in too much demand.
But slowly it started declining because of other options, so they also started exhibits and events to attract people and which work in a certain way. As of now it is abandoned and rarely maintained.
5, Wagner manufacturing company
It began as a first iron cookware firm in 1891, and the brand was known as ‘Wagner ware.’ It used to be one of the best and most well-known brands, but now it is an abandoned location with a large structure with damaged windows and items still inside.
For many years, this brand was used by millions of people and chefs, and the cookware was even imported into Europe. Following the success of iron cookware, they began producing aluminium cookware to expand their product line. However, in the 1950s, the Wagner family began to sell their shares in the company for various reasons.
The proprietor of this business has changed several times, but Ohio continues to make cookware under the family’s name. When it came time to engage in some critical renovations in 2008, the family refused, and the property was left to rot.
6, Thurber House
It is one of the most popular haunted locations for paranormal enthusiasts. It is the most well-known and terrifying house in town; it consists of two independent structures, both of which are haunted and abandoned.
It is maintained by non-profit organisations, and people who enjoy such activities come inside to examine; it is now commonplace among locals.
Unidentified footsteps, books being hurled at guests, and shadows moving here and there are all regular paranormal activity witnessed by visitors. It doesn’t appear to be that horrible from the outside, but it is frightening on the inside.
7, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church
This lovely church was built in 1885 by the congregation’s founding members with a budget of around $2500 dollars. It was one of the most attractive churches in town, with a variety of additional features.
It also included a school on the second level, and various events occurred in order to enlarge the church, which was completed in 1930. And with each passing day, the number of visitors began to dwindle.
For the time being, it lies empty, with a shattered roof that lets in rain, sun, and snow. On the second story, there was rubbish and fragments of wood, as well as graffiti on the walls.
So these are some of the best abandoned places in Illinois which is worth visiting and all the places on the list are suggested by the local people. If you know more such abandoned places that are worth visiting drop them in the comments below.
And do read our blog about abandoned places, things to do in, and travel guides for different cities. If you have any queries regarding post or the places then contact us