Amidst the plethora of haunted houses and attractions that the month of October has to offer, it may be difficult to decide where to go. One particular destination may interest you, if you are up to the challenge: The Damen Silos.

*FULL DISCLOSURE: Exploring the Silos is technically illegal, however most people have had no issues.*

The Damen Silos, located on 29^th and Damen, was home to grain processing when Chicago was in the grain business. After a series of damages to the property, it was officially decommissioned in 1977. Since then, it has been a popular destination for graffiti artists and photographers alike.

Getting to the Silos is relatively simple. The property is fenced off, while explorers tend to cut the fence down after it is repaired. If it is open, you are able to pull into the lot and park anywhere on the gravel. If unavailable, you can park at the Target a few blocks away, or take an Uber there altogether.

There are a number of rooms to explore. From the street, you will find the skeletal remains of what seems to be a garage, home to the vehicles once used.

The first room you can explore within the silos themselves is riddled with debris from the collapsed wooden staircase. Venturing further leads you to the banks of the Chicago River, on a rickety wooden dock.

Around the back is another building littered with amazing graffiti. The building seems to be where the grains were processed.

Ascending the narrow staircase to the second floor leads you to an unstable level. Years of weathering and the remains of the last fire have turned the wooden floor of the second level into a hazard (which I would not advise walking over), and only half the roof exists.

Making your way to the back of the Silos themselves, you’ll find two openings in at the base. If you can make the 10-ft drop, you’ll be able to explore the dark underground of the Silos. The combination of darkness and small spaces create a claustrophobic space not for the faint of heart.

            If you’re feeling really brave, you can attempt to climb to the top of the silos. You begin by climbing the roughly 30-ft makeshift rope (makeshift as it consists of three ropes tied together). Once you’ve succeeded, simply walk up three flights of the rusted stairs. If you make it, take plenty of photos. Very few people have actually done this.

While exploring the Damen Silos makes for a beautiful day-time adventure, the thrill would be exploring the areas at night, as no lighting is present at the location. Bring a flashlight, comfortable shoes, and stay safe if you choose to make this destination your next.