TV Series Filming in Real Haunted Locations

Many television productions seek out authentic locations to capture a specific atmosphere or historical aesthetic for their storytelling. Directors and location scouts often choose buildings with dark histories or eerie reputations to enhance the mood of their scenes. These places range from abandoned asylums and decaying prisons to grand castles and historic hotels that have stood for centuries. Cast and crew members frequently report unexplained phenomena while working on these sets during long shooting schedules. This list explores fifty television series that utilized real-world locations known for their reported paranormal activity.

‘American Horror Story’ (2011–Present)

The first season of this anthology series focused on the Harmon family moving into a restored mansion with a dark past. Production took place at the Alfred Rosenheim Mansion in Los Angeles for the pilot episode. This location is a registered historic landmark and has been the subject of numerous ghost stories over the years. The ominous presence felt on screen mirrors the real-world reputation of this gothic architecture.

‘The Shining’ (1997)

Stephen King wrote and produced this television miniseries to create a faithful adaptation of his original novel. Filming occurred at The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park which was the actual inspiration for the Overlook Hotel. King himself stayed in Room 217 where he experienced the nightmares that led to the book. The cast and crew reported strange occurrences throughout the hotel during the production of the series.

‘The X-Files’ (1993–2018)

Mulder and Scully investigated paranormal cases that often took them to spooky environments across North America. The production frequently used the abandoned Riverview Hospital in Coquitlam for its sanitarium scenes. This facility is widely considered one of the most haunted locations in Canada due to its history as a mental health institution. Crew members have claimed to see shadow figures and hear disembodied voices in the empty corridors.

‘Supernatural’ (2005–2020)

Sam and Dean Winchester spent fifteen years hunting demons and spirits in various creepy towns. The show was primarily filmed in Vancouver and utilized the Riverview Hospital for numerous episodes involving asylums and prisons. This location provided a naturally decaying backdrop that required very little set dressing to look terrifying. The actors often joked about the eerie atmosphere of the real-world haunted hospital.

‘Twin Peaks’ (1990–2017)

David Lynch captured the surreal and unsettling nature of a small Washington town through distinctive location choices. The Salish Lodge and Spa served as the exterior for the Great Northern Hotel where Agent Cooper stayed. This location sits atop the Snoqualmie Falls and has its own local legends of spirits and ancestral energy. The misty surroundings contributed to the dreamlike and ghostly quality of the series.

‘Game of Thrones’ (2011–2019)

The fantasy epic utilized landscapes across Northern Ireland to bring the world of Westeros to life. The Dark Hedges in County Antrim served as the Kingsroad where Arya Stark traveled. This avenue of beech trees is reportedly haunted by the Grey Lady who glides among the twisted branches. Local legend says she is a restless spirit from a nearby abandoned graveyard.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–Present)

The fourth season introduced the creepy Creel House as a central location for the supernatural mystery. Filming took place at the Claremont House in Rome which is a real Victorian manor with a gothic aesthetic. The current owners have reported unexplained sounds and movements within the historic home. Its imposing architecture made it the perfect setting for the lair of the villain Vecna.

‘The Walking Dead’ (2010–2022)

Survivors in this zombie apocalypse drama traversed the desolate landscapes of Georgia to find safety. The production filmed the episode Clear in the town of Grantville which has many abandoned buildings. The chosen location was reportedly haunted by spirits from its past as a bustling cotton town. Cast members described a heavy and oppressive atmosphere while filming in the dilapidated structures.

‘The Vampire Diaries’ (2009–2017)

The town of Mystic Falls was brought to life using the real town of Covington in Georgia. Many scenes were filmed at the Gaither Plantation which is known for its long history and ghost sightings. The production used the antebellum architecture to establish the deep southern roots of the vampire lore. Local tours often highlight the paranormal activity reported at these filming sites.

‘The Originals’ (2013–2018)

This spin-off series focused on the Mikaelson family and their power struggles in New Orleans. The crew filmed around the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 where Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau is buried. Access to the cemetery is strictly controlled due to its sacred and haunted reputation. The show captured the authentic spiritual energy of the French Quarter through these locations.

‘Doctor Who’ (1963–Present)

The long-running sci-fi adventure has visited countless time periods and alien worlds throughout its history. Filming for episodes like The Vampire of Venice took place at Caerphilly Castle in Wales. The castle is known for the Green Lady ghost who reportedly roams the ramparts in search of her lost love. The stone fortress provided a suitably ancient and spooky backdrop for the Time Lord.

‘Outlander’ (2014–Present)

Claire Randall travels through time to 18th-century Scotland in this historical romantic drama. The show used Doune Castle to stand in for Castle Leoch during the first season. This medieval stronghold has a history of bloodshed and is rumored to be haunted by former residents. The cold stone walls and drafty halls added realism to the scenes set in the Jacobite era.

‘Downton Abbey’ (2010–2015)

The lives of the Crawley family unfolded within the magnificent walls of Highclere Castle in Hampshire. This estate serves as the primary filming location and has been in the Carnarvon family for generations. Staff and visitors have reported encountering the ghost of a footman and an unknown lady in the gallery. The grandeur of the house hides a history of unexplained activity that predates the television series.

‘Peaky Blinders’ (2013–2022)

Tommy Shelby and his gang operated in the gritty industrial landscape of post-war Birmingham. The production used Arley Hall in Cheshire to double for the interior of Tommy’s grand estate. This stately home has been on the same site since the twelfth century and carries legends of wandering spirits. The dark wood paneling and shadows of the house suited the noir tone of the show.

‘Rose Red’ (2002)

This miniseries scripted by Stephen King tells the story of a psychology professor investigating a living haunted house. Production took place at Thornewood Castle in Washington State to represent the massive supernatural mansion. The real owner of Thornewood Castle has reported seeing reflections of people who are not there. The authentic gothic revival architecture added a layer of genuine dread to the production.

‘Arrow’ (2012–2020)

Oliver Queen fought crime in Star City while facing demons from his time on a deserted island. The production team frequently returned to the Riverview Hospital to film scenes set in prisons or abandoned warehouses. The peeling paint and long corridors created a gritty urban decay aesthetic perfect for the show. This location is a favorite among Vancouver film crews despite its haunted reputation.

‘The Flash’ (2014–2023)

Barry Allen used his super speed to protect Central City from metahuman threats. Iron Heights Prison was often represented by the interiors of the disused Riverview Hospital buildings. The eerie silence of the empty wards provided a stark contrast to the colorful superhero action. Crew members have shared stories of equipment malfunctioning inexplicably in certain parts of the facility.

‘Smallville’ (2001–2011)

Clark Kent discovered his powers and origins in the rural town of Smallville before becoming Superman. The show used Riverview Hospital for various locations including the LuthorCorp facilities and Belle Reve Sanitarium. The expansive grounds and institutional architecture offered versatile backdrops for the series. The history of the site added an unspoken weight to scenes involving mental institutions.

‘Riverdale’ (2017–2023)

The town of Riverdale hid dark secrets beneath its wholesome facade in this comic book adaptation. The Sisters of Quiet Mercy home for troubled youth was filmed at the Riverview Hospital complex. The oppressive atmosphere of the real location enhanced the sinister nature of the fictional convent. Fans of the show often visit the perimeter of the site to see the imposing brick structures.

‘Fringe’ (2008–2013)

The FBI Fringe Division investigated bizarre occurrences and fringe science experiments. Walter Bishop often conducted his work in settings that required a sterile yet aged look found at Riverview Hospital. The show relied on the natural weathering of the location to sell the history of the labs. The unexplained noises heard by security guards at the site fit perfectly with the show’s themes.

‘The 100’ (2014–2020)

Humanity returned to Earth after a nuclear apocalypse to find a dangerous and changed world. The darkest season involving the Mount Weather facility utilized the underground tunnels and halls of Riverview Hospital. The claustrophobic nature of the basements helped the actors convey the tension of being trapped. The real history of patient mistreatment at the hospital parallels the grim narrative of the show.

‘Psych’ (2006–2014)

Shawn Spencer pretended to be a psychic detective to solve crimes with his best friend Gus. The show filmed a horror-themed episode titled Heeeeere’s Lassie at the Riverview Hospital. The cast played up the spooky elements of the location for both comedic and scary effect. Despite the humor of the series the location itself remained genuinely unsettling for the crew.

‘The Killing’ (2011–2014)

Detectives Linden and Holder investigated a single murder case over the course of an entire gloomy season. The production used the Riverview Hospital to stand in for the police station and other municipal buildings. The constant rain of Vancouver combined with the dark history of the hospital created a noir atmosphere. The emptiness of the location mirrored the emotional desolation of the characters.

‘Legion’ (2017–2019)

David Haller struggled with schizophrenia and mutant powers in this visually stunning Marvel series. Clockworks Psychiatric Hospital was brought to life using the distinct architecture of Riverview Hospital. The show used the real layout of the facility to create a labyrinthine and confused reality for the protagonist. The reputed hauntings of the site added a meta layer to a show about mental ghosts.

‘Battlestar Galactica’ (2004–2009)

The remnants of humanity searched for a new home while fleeing the robotic Cylon forces. Scenes set on the planet Caprica before its destruction were filmed at Riverview Hospital. The production used the institutional buildings to represent government facilities and laboratories. The cold and sterile look of the location suited the sci-fi aesthetic of the prequel storylines.

‘Stargate SG-1’ (1997–2007)

A military team explored the galaxy through an ancient alien portal to defend Earth. The show filmed at Riverview Hospital for numerous episodes involving alien planets or Earth-based hospitals. The versatility of the massive complex allowed it to double for many different environments. Long hours in the empty wings led to many crew stories about strange drafts and sounds.

‘Charmed’ (1998–2006)

Three sisters discovered they were powerful witches destined to protect the innocent from evil. The show used the Linda Vista Community Hospital in Los Angeles for many of its hospital scenes. This abandoned facility is notorious for its ghost sightings and aggressive paranormal activity. The actors worked in an environment that was just as frightening as the demons they fought on screen.

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997–2003)

Buffy Summers balanced high school life with her destiny as the chosen slayer of vampires. Torrance High School served as the exterior for Sunnydale High which sat atop a Hellmouth in the show. The real school has its own stories of a ghost who roams the auditorium and hallways. Students and staff have reported unexplainable cold spots in the historic main building.

‘Angel’ (1999–2004)

The vampire with a soul moved to Los Angeles to help the helpless and seek redemption. Production took place on the Paramount Studios lot which borders the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. The studios are rumored to be haunted by the spirits of golden age film stars. Security guards on the lot have reported seeing apparitions near the stages where the show was filmed.

‘ER’ (1994–2009)

This long-running medical drama set the standard for realistic portrayals of emergency room chaos. The production utilized the Linda Vista Community Hospital for scenes that required a grittier or abandoned setting. The real hospital closed in the early nineties and became a dedicated filming location known for its spookiness. The medical equipment left behind added a disturbing realism to the sets.

‘Dexter’ (2006–2013)

A forensic technician for the police department moonlighted as a vigilante serial killer. The Linda Vista Community Hospital hosted the crew for various scenes involving crimes or medical emergencies. The dark and oppressive atmosphere of the abandoned hospital fit the twisted psyche of the main character. It is considered one of the most active paranormal sites in Los Angeles.

‘True Blood’ (2008–2014)

Vampires revealed their existence to the world in this Southern Gothic supernatural drama. The Vampire Authority headquarters featured interiors filmed at the Linda Vista Community Hospital. The decaying elegance of the old building suited the ancient and corrupt nature of the vampire government. Cast members worked in dimly lit corridors that were genuinely frightening between takes.

‘Criminal Minds’ (2005–2020)

An elite team of FBI profilers analyzed the twisted minds of the country’s most dangerous criminals. The show frequently used the Linda Vista Community Hospital to depict the lairs of unsubs or abandoned institutions. The production design often incorporated the existing decay of the building to save on set dressing. The heavy atmosphere of the location amplified the horror of the crimes depicted.

‘NCIS’ (2003–Present)

Special agents investigated crimes connected to Navy and Marine Corps personnel. The Linda Vista Community Hospital served as a filming location for episodes involving medical mysteries or hostage situations. The long history of patient deaths at the real hospital contributes to its haunted reputation. Crew members often stuck together when moving equipment through the empty floors.

‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013–2021)

This police sitcom focused on the funny and talented detectives of a New York precinct. The show filmed an episode involving a cruise ship on the RMS Queen Mary docked in Long Beach. The ship is famous for being one of the most haunted places in the world with numerous recorded deaths. The cast filmed comedy scenes in spaces that are legendary for paranormal sightings.

‘Arrested Development’ (2003–2019)

The dysfunctional Bluth family lost everything and had to rely on their level-headed son Michael. Filming for the episode Pier Pressure took place on the Queen Mary in Long Beach. The ship stood in for a Milford Academy event where the characters learned difficult lessons. The majestic art deco interiors provided a distinct look despite the ghostly rumors surrounding the vessel.

‘Castle’ (2009–2016)

A mystery novelist partnered with an NYPD detective to solve strange and unusual homicides. The show utilized the Queen Mary for an episode centered on a murder in the world of baseball. The historic ship offered a variety of visually interesting locations from the engine room to the decks. The cast worked in areas where visitors frequently report seeing a lady in white.

‘Revenge’ (2011–2015)

A young woman returned to the Hamptons to exact vengeance on the wealthy family who destroyed her father. The production filmed scenes aboard the Queen Mary to represent a luxury ocean liner. The opulence of the ship fit the high-society setting of the show perfectly. Behind the glamour lies a history of tragic accidents that fuels the ship’s haunted lore.

‘Titans’ (2018–2023)

Dick Grayson stepped out of Batman’s shadow to lead a new team of young superheroes. Casa Loma in Toronto served as the exterior and interior for Wayne Manor. This gothic revival castle is a major tourist attraction with reports of a white lady and other spirits. The dark wood and stone of the castle created the perfect brooding atmosphere for the Bat-family home.

‘Shadowhunters’ (2016–2019)

Clary Fray discovered she was part of a long line of human-angel hybrids who hunt demons. The New York Institute where the heroes lived was filmed at Casa Loma in Toronto. The historic castle provided the grandeur and ancient feel required for the headquarters of the Shadowhunters. The secret passages and towers of the real location enhanced the magical setting.

‘The Strain’ (2014–2017)

A viral outbreak turned New Yorkers into terrifying vampiric creatures in this horror series. Casa Loma was used to depict the headquarters of the wealthy and villainous Eldritch Palmer. The imposing architecture symbolized the power and age of the forces working against humanity. The castle is known for mysterious noises that often startle visitors and staff.

‘Hannibal’ (2013–2015)

A brilliant psychiatrist and secret cannibal manipulated the FBI profiler Will Graham. The Verger estate in the series was filmed at Casa Loma to showcase immense wealth and old-money power. The cold and gothic beauty of the castle matched the sophisticated yet horrific tone of the show. The real ghost stories of the castle fit the macabre themes of the series.

‘Warehouse 13’ (2009–2014)

Secret service agents retrieved supernatural artifacts to store them in a massive secret warehouse. Scenes set in various historic European locations were often filmed at Casa Loma in Toronto. The castle’s library and conservatory offered diverse backdrops for the artifact hunts. The playful yet spooky tone of the show was well served by the eccentric architecture of the castle.

‘Goosebumps’ (1995–1998)

R.L. Stine’s children’s horror books were adapted into this popular anthology series. The two-part episode A Night in Terror Tower was filmed on location at Casa Loma. The castle stood in for the medieval prison where the protagonists were trapped in time. The naturally spooky ambiance of the castle made it a terrifying setting for the young audience.

‘Mad Men’ (2007–2015)

Don Draper navigated the changing social mores of the 1960s advertising world in New York. The production filmed scenes at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles to represent various luxury hotels. The Biltmore is rumored to be the last place the Black Dahlia was seen alive and hosts several ghosts. The classic architecture allowed the show to maintain its period accuracy.

‘Glee’ (2009–2015)

A high school choir club dealt with relationships and social issues through song and dance. The show used the Millennium Biltmore Hotel for competition venues and prom locations. The hotel’s crystal ballrooms and long hallways are beautiful but reportedly harbor restless spirits. Actors performed musical numbers in spaces that have unsettled guests for decades.

‘Scandal’ (2012–2018)

Olivia Pope managed crises for the political elite in Washington D.C. while hiding her own secrets. The Millennium Biltmore Hotel often stood in for the White House or other government ballrooms. The historic weight of the building added gravitas to the high-stakes political drama. Behind the scenes the hotel is known for a nurse ghost who visits guests on the second floor.

‘Westworld’ (2016–2022)

Android hosts in a futuristic theme park gained sentience and rebelled against their human creators. The Western town of Sweetwater was filmed at the Paramount Ranch which has been a movie set for decades. The ranch is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of past actors and cowboys who filmed there. The location was tragically damaged by wildfires but its history remains.

‘Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman’ (1993–1998)

Michaela Quinn left Boston to become a doctor in the Wild West town of Colorado Springs. The entire town set was built and filmed at the Paramount Ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains. The long history of western productions at the site has led to stories of phantom footsteps and voices. The rustic buildings provided an authentic backdrop for the frontier medical drama.

‘Gotham’ (2014–2019)

Jim Gordon navigated the corruption of Gotham City in the years before Batman emerged. Filming took place at Steiner Studios in the Brooklyn Navy Yard which has a haunted reputation. The old naval hospital on the grounds is said to be occupied by spirits of military personnel. The industrial grimness of the location was essential for establishing the noir look of the city.

Share your favorite spooky TV setting or tell us if you’ve visited any of these locations in the comments.