Halloween only comes once a year, and maybe that’s okay for some. But true Halloween fans know that just one day out of 365 is not nearly enough. Well, lucky for us, some of the spookiest horror movies out there were set in real-life locations. Horror enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike can immerse themselves as they travel the country to these bone-chilling locations. Keep reading if you dare!
The Shining: The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado
When you think of The Shining, the image of the haunting Overlook Hotel immediately comes to mind. The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, inspired Stephen King’s novel and the film adaptation. The hotel’s grand architecture and isolated location make it the perfect setting for a horror story. Visitors can take a ghost tour or even stay overnight in one of the allegedly haunted rooms, like room 217, where King himself had a paranormal experience.
Travel Tip: Estes Park, Colorado, is a beautiful location right on the edge of the Rocky Mountains National Park. See the spooky movie setting and then take in the breathtaking views of the famous mountain range; no paranormal experience is needed.
The Exorcist: The Exorcist Steps, Washington D.C.
The terrifying exorcism scenes in The Exorcist have been haunting viewers since 1973. Although the movie had scenes throughout the United States, you can visit the famous Exorcist Steps in Washington, D.C., where Father Karras met his untimely end. These steep, narrow stairs in Georgetown have become a pilgrimage site for horror fans. Standing at the top and peering down can send chills down your spine, especially after dark.
Travel Tip: If retracing The Exorcist tracks wasn’t enough, book an after-dark ghost tour in D.C. or a cemetery tour. There are many to choose from! Or, if you prefer something a little less spooky, there are endless museums and historical sites to visit.
Texas Chain Saw Massacre: The Gas Station, Bastrop, Texas
Few horror movies have left a lasting impact, such as The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. The Gas Station in Bastrop, Texas, is one of the film’s iconic locations and has been transformed into a barbecue restaurant and horror memorabilia store. Visitors can savor some Texas BBQ while browsing a collection of horror-themed souvenirs. The eerie vibe of the place, combined with its cinematic history, makes it a must-visit for fans of the genre.
Travel Tip: Bastrop is a beautiful destination with different parks and nature reserves, art exhibits, and a visitor center and all just a short drive from Austin.
Blair Witch Project: Seneca Creek State Park, Maryland
The Blair Witch Project brought a new level of realism to the horror genre. Seneca Creek State Park in Maryland was one of the primary filming locations, and it continues to draw curious fans. The park’s dense woods and secluded trails offer the perfect backdrop for reenacting scenes from the movie or simply getting lost in the atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for an adventurous Halloween hike.
Travel Tip: The park has facilities for boating and fishing, as well as many hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails. The state park is also not a long distance from Washington, D.C.
Invasion of the Bodysnatchers: Point Reyes, California
The 1978 remake of Invasion of the Body Snatchers utilized various locations around San Francisco, but one of the most memorable locations is Point Reyes. This coastal location provided the eerie and desolate setting that enhanced the film’s sense of paranoia and dread. The foggy, damp, overcast gives the feeling that the setting and situation are inescapable. The Point Reyes National Seashore is a beautiful yet haunting place to explore, offering stunning views and a chance to step into sci-fi horror history.
Travel Tip: Point Reyes is a stunning place to explore, with rocky cliffs and extensive sandy beaches. San Francisco is just about 30 miles northwest, and the spooky horror theme can continue with ghost tours, a trip to Alcatraz, or even drinks at a Vampire-themed bar.
Rosemary’s Baby: The Dakota, New York City
Rosemary’s Baby, the psychological horror classic, featured the Gothic architecture of The Dakota as the exterior of the Bramford, the sinister apartment building where much of the movie takes place. Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, The Dakota’s imposing structure and historic significance make it a fascinating visit. While access to the building’s interior is restricted, fans can still appreciate its ominous presence from the outside.
Travel Tip: The iconic Central Park is just across the street from the 72nd Street apartment building and next to John Lennon’s Strawberry Fields memorial. Wander through Central Park, or take a guided tour around NYC.
Long Story Short...
For horror movie aficionados, visiting these real-life horror movie locations is a thrilling way to celebrate Halloween. Each site offers a unique experience, blending cinematic history with real-world spookiness. Whether you’re seeking ghostly encounters, chilling atmospheres, or just a brush with movie magic, these destinations are sure to provide a memorable and spine-tingling adventure. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the places where horror legends were born. Happy haunting!
Written by Andrea Jeschke
