11 Best International Horror Movie Sets: A Guide for Fans and Creators
Horror movies uniquely transport audiences into worlds of suspense, fear, and the supernatural. Visiting the filming locations of these iconic films can be an exhilarating experience for fans of the genre. This blog post explores 11 of the best international horror movie sets and locations to visit, providing insights for content creators like vloggers, photographers, and influencers who wish to capture the essence of these chilling sites.
Concept Overview
Exploring horror movie filming locations allows fans to connect with their favourite films on a deeper level. These sites often have rich histories and eerie atmospheres that enhance their cinematic significance. Content creators can leverage these locations for various projects, from vlogs and photography shoots to themed events and music videos.
Target Audience
The target audience for this exploration includes:
- Vloggers documenting their travels to famous horror film locations.
- Photographers seeking atmospheric backdrops for creative projects.
- Influencers want to engage their followers with unique content.
- Filmmakers scouting potential locations for their own horror projects.
Key Filming Locations
1. The Overlook Hotel – The Shining (1980)
Location: Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood, Oregon, USA
Scenes Filmed: The exterior shots of the haunted Overlook Hotel were filmed at Timberline Lodge. The hotel’s imposing structure and stunning mountain backdrop create an unsettling atmosphere that fans recognise instantly.
Accessibility: Timberline Lodge is open to the public year-round, making it easy for visitors to explore. No special permits are needed for general access.
Content Creator Ideas: Perfect for pre-wedding shoots, atmospheric photography sessions, or vlogs discussing the film’s legacy.
2. Haddonfield – Halloween (1978)
Location: Pasadena, California, USA
Scenes Filmed: The suburban streets where Michael Myers stalks Laurie Strode were filmed in Pasadena. The Myers House at 1000 Mission Street remains a popular tourist attraction.
Accessibility: Pasadena is easily accessible by public transport from Los Angeles. Visitors can stroll through the iconic streets without needing permits.
Content Creator Ideas: Photography shoots capturing the suburban horror aesthetic or vlogging about iconic horror film settings.
3. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre House – The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
Location: Kingsland, Texas, USA
Scenes Filmed: The infamous house where Leatherface terrorizes his victims is now a restaurant but retains its eerie charm.
Accessibility: Kingsland is accessible by car from major Texas cities. While the restaurant welcomes visitors, filming permits may be required for professional shoots.
Content Creator Ideas: Unique dining experiences combined with themed photography or vlogs exploring horror history.
4. Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco – Friday the 13th (1980)
Location: Blairstown, New Jersey, USA
Scenes Filmed: This Boy Scouts camp served as the real-life Camp Crystal Lake. While it’s private property, it occasionally hosts tours for franchise fans.
Accessibility: Access is limited due to its private status; however, tours are sometimes available through special arrangements.
Content Creator Ideas: Vlogs discussing campfire stories or themed dance shoots inspired by summer camp horror.
5. Elm Street – A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
Scenes Filmed: The fictional Elm Street comes alive in Los Angeles, particularly at 1428 North Genesee Avenue, where Nancy battles Freddy Krueger.
Accessibility: The house is privately owned but visible from the street; no permits are needed for casual visits.
Content Creator Ideas: Photography sessions capturing iconic horror settings or vlogs exploring urban legends associated with Elm Street.
6. The Exorcist Stairs – The Exorcist (1973)
Location: Georgetown, Washington D.C., USA
Scenes Filmed: The infamous stairs where Father Karras meets his fate have become a landmark for horror fans visiting Georgetown.
Accessibility: Open to the public; no permits are required to visit this historical site.
Content Creator Ideas: Dramatic photography sessions or vlogs discussing the impact of The Exorcist on horror cinema.
7. Hostel – Hostel (2005)
Location: Prague and Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Scenes Filmed: While set in Slovakia, most scenes were filmed in these picturesque Czech towns, contrasting sharply with the film’s dark themes.
Accessibility: Both cities are easily accessible via trains from major European cities; no special permits are needed for public areas.
Content Creator Ideas: Photography shoots capture these towns’ beauty juxtaposed with horror themes or vlogs exploring European horror culture.
8. Nosferatu – Nosferatu (1922)
Location: Various locations in Germany and Romania
Scenes Filmed: This silent classic was filmed in various haunting locales that evoke a sense of dread and isolation.
Accessibility: Many filming locations are historical sites open to tourists; permits may be required for professional photography in certain areas.
Content Creator Ideas: Artistic photography inspired by gothic themes or vlogs discussing silent film history.
9. Suspiria – Suspiria (1977 & 2018)
Location: Berlin and Italy
Scenes Filmed: Both versions feature a prestigious dance academy as a front for dark secrets and witchcraft. Various locations in Berlin and Italy add to the film’s eerie atmosphere.
Accessibility: Many sites are open to the public; some may require permits for professional shoots due to their historical significance.
Content Creator Ideas: Dance shoots inspired by the film’s choreography or vlogs discussing its influence on horror cinema.
10. All Saints Church – The Omen (1976)
Location: London, England
Scenes Filmed: Key scenes were shot at All Saints Church, which adds an authentic gothic ambience to the film’s chilling narrative.
Accessibility: Open to visitors; no special permits are needed unless filming professionally inside the church is planned.
Content Creator Ideas: Atmospheric photography sessions or vlogs exploring London’s haunted history.
11. Villa Diodati – Frankenstein (1994)
Location: Lake Geneva, Switzerland
Scenes Filmed: This villa inspired Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, where she conceived her legendary tale during a stormy night in 1816.
Accessibility: The villa is privately owned but can be viewed from the lake; permits may be needed for professional photography nearby.
Content Creator Ideas: Romantic pre-wedding shoots against a historical backdrop or vlogs discussing literary influences on horror films.
Conclusion
Visiting these international horror movie sets offers fans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in cinematic history while exploring atmospheric locales that have shaped the genre. Whether you’re a content creator looking to capture stunning visuals or simply a fan wanting to walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters, these locations provide endless inspiration and excitement.