Los Angeles is a city known for its glitz and glamour, but beneath the surface lies a darker, creepier side just waiting to be explored. For those who enjoy the thrill of the unknown, here are ten eerie activities that will send shivers down your spine.
1. Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Start your spooky adventure with Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where many celebrities are interred, including Judy Garland, her beloved Toto and Johnny Ramone. This cemetery is not just a resting place; it hosts events like outdoor movie nights that can take on a ghostly vibe under the stars. Amazing guided tours with Karen reveal tales of hauntings and historical significance that add to its eerie charm.
2. Starline Haunted Hollywood Tour
For a mix of celebrity culture and ghostly tales, the Starline Haunted Hollywood Tour is a must. This two-hour tour takes you through Hollywood and Beverly Hills, sharing stories of tragic celebrity deaths and paranormal sightings. You’ll hear about legends like Marilyn Monroe and Jim Morrison while visiting sites known for their eerie atmospheres. The tour departs from the iconic Chinese Theater, making it an easy addition to your Hollywood itinerary.
3. Hollywood Sign
While the Hollywood Sign is a symbol of dreams, its history is filled with tragedy. Hike up to this iconic landmark for breathtaking views and a chance to reflect on the darker stories associated with it—like those of aspiring star Peg Entwistle who met untimely ends in their pursuit of fame. The hike itself can feel eerie, especially as dusk approaches.
4. Grand Central Market
Though primarily known for its vibrant food scene, Grand Central Market has its share of ghost stories. Dating back to 1917, this historic market is said to have witnessed many events over the years that have left lingering spirits behind. Enjoy delicious eats while keeping an eye out for any supernatural activity—who knows what might be lurking among the stalls? Is that produce crate moving...?!
5. The Cecil Hotel
No list of creepy places in Los Angeles would be complete without mentioning the infamous Cecil Hotel. Known for its dark history involving numerous deaths and disappearances, this hotel has become a hotspot for ghost hunters and true crime enthusiasts alike. While it's not open for tours, simply standing outside can give you chills as you ponder the stories that haunt its halls.
6. Grave Line Tours
Hitch a somber ride with Grave Line Tours, where you can explore Los Angeles's most notorious haunted and true crime locations. This immersive experience takes you through the city’s dark history, including tales of infamous figures like the Black Dahlia and Charles Manson. The tours are conducted in luxurious limousines, providing a comfortable yet chilling ride through L.A.'s haunted past.
7. The Viper Room
The Viper Room, once owned by Johnny Depp, has a notorious reputation tied to the tragic death of River Phoenix outside its doors in 1993. This West Hollywood club is said to be haunted by various spirits, adding an unsettling atmosphere to its live music scene. If you're brave enough to catch a show here, keep your senses sharp—you might just feel a chill run down your spine.
8. The Comedy Store
Known for its stand-up comedy acts, The Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard also has a reputation for being haunted. Staff and performers have reported strange occurrences, including unexplained noises and sightings of apparitions in the building's basement—once home to mobsters in the 1940s and 1950s.
9. Linda Vista Hospital
Explore the abandoned Linda Vista Hospital, which has been featured in numerous ghost hunting shows due to its chilling atmosphere and history as a former psychiatric hospital. While trespassing is illegal, guided tours occasionally allow brave souls to explore its haunted halls and learn about its dark past filled with tragic tales.
10. The Queen Mary
Located in Long Beach, the Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner turned hotel that offers ghost tours exploring its haunted history. Guests have reported hearing voices and experiencing strange phenomena during their stays. Whether you choose a daytime tour or an overnight stay, prepare for an encounter with spirits from the ship's storied past.
Los Angeles may be famous for its sunny beaches and star-studded streets, but these ten creepy activities reveal another side of this vibrant city—one filled with mystery, history, and perhaps even a few ghosts lurking just around the corner. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these experiences are sure to leave you with spine-tingling memories! Enjoy, at your own risk...