Top 5 Spooky TV Show Filming Locations in California to Check Out

California, with its rich cinematic history, is no stranger to the eerie and unsettling. Over the decades, it has played host to a plethora of television productions, with many of its locales becoming synonymous with iconic spooky scenes. With Halloween on the horizon, let's unearth the top five spine-chilling TV show filming locations in the Golden State that you should dare to visit.

The Bates Motel – Universal Studios, Los Angeles

Arguably one of the most iconic spooky settings in television history, the Bates Motel from Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece Psycho and its subsequent TV adaptations stands tall within Universal Studios. While the façade is part of a theme park and is often bustling with excited tourists, there's an undeniable eeriness to the site, especially if you know its dark history. The nearby Bates house overlooks the motel, adding to the overall unsettling atmosphere. It's a must-visit for every horror enthusiast.

Murder House – Rosenheim Mansion, Los Angeles

Fans of the TV series "American Horror Story" will instantly recognize the Rosenheim Mansion as the infamous 'Murder House' from its first season. Built in the early 1900s, the mansion itself is a mix of Gothic and Romanesque revival architecture. It exudes an old-world charm with its stained-glass windows, wood paneling, and turrets. However, its association with the series has given it an eerie overlay, making it a top draw for those seeking the thrill of the unknown.

Santa Carla Boardwalk – Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

"The Lost Boys," while a film, has spawned a cultural following and an aesthetic that has influenced several TV series. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which stood in for the fictional Santa Carla Boardwalk, becomes especially creepy at night. With its carnival lights and the incessant sounds of the ocean in the backdrop, one can't help but recall the vampire-infested scenes of the cult classic. It's both a nostalgic and haunting visit.

Sunnydale High School – Torrance High School, Torrance

Buffy the Vampire Slayer may have mixed horror with teen drama, but its settings were genuinely creepy at times. Torrance High School doubled as Sunnydale High in the series. While it's a functioning school, the building's early 20th-century architecture, coupled with its TV history, gives it a spooky aura, especially if you visit after hours or during school breaks. Just be respectful of the premises.

Camp Redwood – Franklin Canyon Park, Beverly Hills

Another nod to the "American Horror Story" series, the Camp Redwood scenes from the '1984' season were filmed at Franklin Canyon Park. With its dense woods and secluded vibe, it's not hard to see why this location was chosen to represent an '80s style horror summer camp. The natural serenity of the park is juxtaposed by the dark narrative of the show, making it an ideal spot for those who love nature with a side of eeriness.

Whether you're a dedicated fan of horror TV shows or someone who enjoys the occasional thrill, these spooky TV show filming locations in California are worth checking out. They not only offer a glimpse into Hollywood's dark and imaginative world but also allow you to experience the locations in a way that brings your favorite eerie scenes to life. Just remember, while the tales might be fiction, the chills are real. So, gather your bravest friends and embark on a spooky Californian adventure this Halloween season!