We all remember that famous scene in Micahel Jackson’s Thriller where Jackson and his deceptively nimble army of zombies dance their way down a Los Angeles street. It all seems ridiculous in the video, but this could be closer to the truth than we once thought.
Here are some lesser-known spooky spots in the Los Angeles area. If you happen to be in town and want to join an undead dance crew, check out these paranormal hotspots.
Dominguez Ranco Adobe
This estate was home to the powerful Dominguez family, including Manuel Dominguez, who was elected mayor of Los Angeles in 1832. Visitors say that strange orbs and odors haunt the home, along with the spirits of this once-prominent family.
Avila Abode
Built by Fransisco Avila in 1818, this house is the oldest residence in the city. At night, you can see and hear Avila’s widow as she mourns the loss of her husband beyond the grave.
Variety Arts Center
This old theater is said to be haunted by an actor in Elizabethan garb, who can sometimes be seen bowing to an unknown costar. This is odd, since the theater was built about 320 years after the end of Queen Elizabeth’s reign.
The Oban Hotel
This old hotel, now closed, may not look like much, but it once boasted an impressive client list (think Orson Welles and Marilyn Monroe). It is said that a 1930s stuntman named Charlie Love committed suicide in one of the rooms, and his ghost lingers there to this day.
7708 Woodrow Wilson Drive
This place has housed many stars over the years, including Dan Aykroyd, who eventually used it as inspiration for Ghostbusters. It is said that the ghosts of former owners Mama Cass and Natalie Wood continue to wander the halls.
The Comedy Store
Although real-life comedy ghosts like Marc Maron and Dane Cook still haunt this legendary comedy club, there are some even older spirits that call this venue home. Once owned by ruthless mobsters, it seems like comedic careers aren’t the only things that have died here.
2320 Bowmont Drive
Iconic actress Katharine Hepburn claimed to have seen ghosts in the guest house on this property while she lived there. She also reported seeing spirits in the main home on occasion.
I guess it’s no surprise that a place with such a bizarre history is filled with ghosts. I just hope that these spirits haunt Hollywood with the desire to get down.
