BEIJING SPACE & SCIENCE MUSEUM – BEIJING – GRADE B-

Just a stone’s throw from The World Trade Towers in Beijing is the derelict site of Beijing Space and Science Museum. Along with the Planetarium and the The Natural History Museum nearby in the compound, all of these buildings are due for demolition soon. The Space Museum has recently been abandoned by the security guards which makes entering much easier than before.

The museum is spread over nine floors, and the sixth floor opens out onto this awesome roof area affording some great views of the local area. The central roof is made of glass panels which from the atrium below looks magnificent. Unfortunately most of the building has been gutted, but there are a few exhibits remaining in a few hidden corners. It is also very easy to get lost in the maze-like basement, but there are some great rooms to be found.

Like a lot of buildings in Beijing, it was built in the run-up to the Olympics and then just abandoned after the finish of the games. This is a relatively easy place to get into, and there is a lot to see, which is why this earns itself a hearty B-.

Solana Hotel Chaoyang – Grade B+

      

Construction on the Solana Hotel was abandoned a few years ago. With its unique architectural styling including spiral staircases, and empty swimming pool, numerous towers, and best of all the secret tunnels that run under the basmement, Solana is a joy to explore and you will need at least a whole afternoon.

Maybe the best part about Solana is listening to the shoppers on the other side of the wall randomly buying stuff in the luxury mall. Also fun is spying on the resident security guard who spends most of his time asleep.

This is a solid Grade B+ site for Urbex.

Remember, if you or your friends would like to come Urbexing with me just send me a message, and we can set up a time to meet.

WARNING – This is an dangerous site, there is high risk of flooding on rainy days.