Abandoned places in Texas are hiding in practically every nook and cranny of the state, both in major cities and along desolate highways. The legendary Houston Astrodome is one of them, and it’s truly striking to see how such a legendary building has fallen into an alarming state of disrepair. Take a look inside:
Built in 1965, the Houston Astrodome is one of the most recognizable structures in the world.
This historic landmark was the world's first multi-purpose, domed sports stadium, and it served as home to several sports teams - including the Houston Astros - over the years. The stadium also hosted the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo from 1966 until 2002.
Several other "firsts" can be attributed to the Astrodome, including the installation of the artificial grass now known as AstroTurf.
The Astrodome also boasted the world's first animated scoreboard, known as "Astrolite."
In 2002, NRG Stadium opened adjacent to the Astrodome, taking away its last major tenant, the rodeo. After that, it hosted events sporadically and was also used as a shelter for displaced New Orleans residents during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Today, the Astrodome is a far cry from the high-energy entertainment venue it once was. After being declared non-compliant with the fire code by the Houston Fire Department in 2008, the stadium's rows, once packed with cheering fans, gave way to empty seats that slowly began succumbing to the elements.
Parts of the building were demolished in 2013, and it has sat abandoned ever since. A restoration plan was approved in late 2016; however, it was scrapped three years later by Commissioners Court Judge Lina Hidalgo.
No new plans have emerged to save the Astrodome. However, the city seems equally unhurried to fully tear it down. For the time being, at least, this once-legendary icon will continue to harbor the memories created in its heyday.