The weird and scary are nothing new in California, which has a long history in the film industry. As a result of the numerous television productions that have taken place there over the years, many of its locations have come to be associated with famous spooky scenes. Discover the top five spooky TV show filming places in the Golden State that you should dare to visit as Halloween approaches.
THE BATES MOTEL – UNIVERSAL STUDIOS, LOS ANGELES
The Bates Motel from Alfred Hitchcock’s classic Psycho and its following TV adaptations stands tall within Universal Studios and is arguably one of the most recognisable eerie sets in television history. Even though the façade is a part of a theme park and is frequently crowded with delighted tourists, the location is inexplicably eerie, especially if you are aware of its tragic history. The motel is overlooked by the nearby Bates house, which adds to the eerie mood. For every horror fan, it is a must-see.
MURDER HOUSE – ROSENHEIM MANSION, LOS ANGELES
The Rosenheim Mansion is immediately recognisable to viewers of “American Horror Story” as the famed “Murder House” from the first season. The mansion itself was constructed in the early 1900s and is a fusion of Gothic and Romanesque revival styles. With its stained-glass windows, wood panelling, and towers, it emanates an old-world charm. But because of the series, it has an unsettling undertone that draws people looking for the thrill of the unknown.
SANTA CARLA BOARDWALK – SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK
Despite being only a movie, “The Lost Boys” has developed a cult following and an image that has impacted several TV shows. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which served as a stand-in for the imagined Santa Carla Boardwalk, is particularly unsettling at night. One is compelled to think of the vampire-filled sequences from the cult film when one sees the funfair lights and never-ending sounds of the ocean in the background. It’s a visit that is both nostalgic and eerie.
SUNNYDALE HIGH SCHOOL – TORRANCE HIGH SCHOOL, TORRANCE
Although Buffy the Vampire Slayer blended teen drama and horror, at times the show’s settings were genuinely creepy. Sunnydale High in the series was based on Torrance High School. Despite being a working school, the structure has a creepy atmosphere thanks to its early 20th-century architecture and TV past, especially if you visit after hours or during a break in classes. Just be mindful of the surroundings.
CAMP REDWOOD – FRANKLIN CANYON PARK, BEVERLY HILLS
Franklin Canyon Park served as the location for the Camp Redwood scenes from the “American Horror Story” season “1984,” which is another allusion to the television show. It’s easy to understand why this area was chosen to represent a ’80s style horror summer camp given its dense woods and remote atmosphere. The macabre storyline of the play contrasted with the park’s natural tranquilly, making it the perfect destination for people who enjoy nature with a side of eeriness.
These horror TV show filming locations in California are interesting to visit whether you’re a devoted fan of horror TV shows or just want the odd thrill. They not only provide you a view into the dark, fantastical world of Hollywood, but also give you the chance to interact with the settings in a way that brings your favourite spooky scenes to life. Just keep in mind that while the stories may be made up, the goosebumps are genuine. So, this Halloween, assemble your bravest buddies and go on a spooky Californian adventure!