In this episode of 99% Invisible, we delve into the captivating histories of two very different beaches: Jacob Riis Park in New York City and Sutro Baths in San Francisco. Jacob Riis Park features a section known as "queer Riis," which has long been a refuge for marginalized communities, thanks in part to the shelter provided by an old hospital. However, the hospital's demolition raises questions about the future of this cherished space. On the other hand, Sutro Baths tells the story of a once-splendid Victorian bathhouse complex, marked by ambitious architecture, financial struggles, and a dramatic fire that left behind haunting ruins. These remnants continue to draw visitors and inspire new legends. Together, these narratives reveal how abandoned places, whether by design or circumstance, evolve into culturally significant sites that captivate our imagination.
