Hollywood is the world-famous neighborhood in central Los Angeles, which is home to America’s film industry and larger-than-life celebrities. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a tourist-heavy area due to its iconic buildings, famous hotels and landmarks such as the Capitol Records Tower, the Hollywood sign on Hollywood Hills, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Those who want to experience the neighborhood for a few days can stay in some of the amazing vacation rentals in Hollywood. If you’re visiting during Halloween, then it’s likely that you’ll want to experience a grimmer side to the city. The Halloween parade in Hollywood is a dazzling spectacle of creativity and imagination, as people from all walks of life come together to showcase their most elaborate and spooky costumes. Check out our amazing list of tours and attractions and book your favorite one for your Halloween in Hollywood.
Halloween events to look out for
The annual Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights takes place from September through the begining November. The event features haunted houses, thrilling rides, scare zones, entertainment, and more.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery is another popular event that takes place on the last Saturday before November 2nd to celebrate the Dia de Los Muertos – the Day of the Dead. It is characterized with costume dances, decorated altars, and more.
Most haunted locations in Hollywood
Here’s a curated list of the most haunted locations in Hollywood, which will surely guarantee a bone-chilling experience as you explore them.
Cecil Hotel: According to this article from Spectrum News 1, Cecil Hotel was home to two serial killers, Richard “The Night Stalker” Ramirez and Jack Unterweger. It came into the news when the body of a young guest was found in the hotel’s rooftop tank a week after she had disappeared.
The Pantages Theater: An article in Britannica mentions that this renowned theatre was loved by its former owner Howard Hughes so much that he can still be spotted in executive offices and his footsteps are heard throughout the theater even after his death.
Griffith Park: Paranormal activities have been reported in this park with horseback sightings of Griffith J. Griffith, after whom the park is named, and Dona Petronilla who had cursed this park 150 years ago.
Colorado Street Bridge: Once renowned as the highest concrete bridge at the time of its completion, this bridge is infamous as the suicide bridge. Several spirits are said to wander around it.
Grauman’s Chinese Theater: This theatre is haunted by its resident ghost Fritz who hanged himself behind the movie screen.
The Roosevelt Hotel: This hotel is said to have witnessed several celebrity hauntings. Marilyn Monroe is believed to be haunting an old room on the property and haunted faces of Montgomery Clift and Carole Lombard have also been reported by others.
Halloween tours and experiences in Hollywood
1. Learn more about the dark history of Los Angeles on this haunted bus tour
Discover the chilling allure of Los Angeles’ dark history on the Haunted LA Bus Tour, a spine-tingling expedition into the city’s haunted past. Board a vintage bus for a three-hour journey through notorious locations and sinister stories, revealing the hidden secrets that still haunt the city’s streets. As an explorer, I am always excited to try new things and would love to take this tour when I visit Los Angeles.
Offering insights into macabre murders and eerie ghost sightings, the tour is sure to provide you with all the thrills and chills of Halloween horror nights in Hollywood. Brace yourself for an unforgettable adventure, where the shadows come alive and the ghosts of LA’s past are brought to life.
Note that this tour is not suitable for travelers under 21 years of age. Also, be sure to carry your passport or ID card.
Haunted stops:
Hollywood Forever Cemetery (the burial place of Hollywood legends Mel Blanc, Mickey Rooney, Judy Garland, and others)
Pico House
Millennium Biltmore Hotel
Cecil Hotel
What guests are saying about this tour:
“The tour is a great education opportunity ,The guide was knowledgeable. The places were good spot to visit…” - by Tru_ (United States)
2. West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval
Experience Halloween in West Hollywood at the spectacular Halloween Carnaval. This annual extravaganza draws thousands of revelers to Santa Monica Boulevard for a night of spine-tingling fun. Don your most creative costume and join the throngs of enthusiastic party-goers as they flood the streets in a riot of colors and creativity. I would love to take part in this fun event when I visit the city of Los Angeles.
From jaw-dropping ensembles to mesmerizing performances, the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval promises an unforgettable night filled with excitement and spooky delights. Embrace the spirit of Halloween and immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of this iconic event on October 31, 2023.
Note that alcohol, drones, public drinking fireworks, camera cases, and backpacks are prohibited in this carnival. Also refrain from bringing kids and pets, too!
West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval
Address: Santa Monica Boulevard: between North Doheny Drive and North La Cienega Boulevard, Los Angeles, California
Opening hours: 6 pm - 11pm
Price: Free
3. Experience the terrors of Tinseltown
Embark on a hair-raising journey through the darker side of Hollywood with the LA Ghosts: Terrors of Tinseltown Tour, a spine-chilling adventure perfect for the Halloween season. This 90-minute immersive experience will lead you through the haunted alleys and historic landmarks of Los Angeles, revealing chilling tales of restless spirits and unsolved mysteries. Walk in the footsteps of legends and learn about the ghosts said to wander the halls of iconic movie studios and legendary theaters. From haunted celebrity homes to eerie urban legends, this tour offers a unique blend of Hollywood history and supernatural encounters, making it a must-try Hollywood Halloween event for thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike. I will surely join this tour, as it explores some of the most haunted sites in Hollywood.
You can bring your kids as this tour is family-friendly. Also, be sure to dress up appropriately and wear comfortable shoes as the tour operates in all weather. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Haunted stops:
TCL Chinese Theater
Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
Pantages Theatre
What guests are saying about this tour:
“Angie was a great tour guide to hear about the spookier side of Hollywood! Would highly recommend!” - by Jessica (United States)
Book Tours : Los Angeles Ghost Tours: Terrors of Tinseltown
4. Universal Studios Hollywood tour
Hollywood has plenty of famous studios that have produced an endless amount of blockbuster hits. One of these entities is Universal Studios, and they’ve created this unique tour to allow fans to experience what this movie studio is all about. Participants will tour the studio’s backlot with the famous comedian, Jimmy Falon, and learn the ins and outs of Hollywood moviemaking. I am already excited about this once-in-a-lifetime experience and will surely visit it when I stay here.
Furthermore, they’ll enjoy thrilling and scary attractions based on the studio’s properties, namely Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Harry Potter, and the Walking Dead. They’ll discover the secrets of these universes, and follow in the footsteps of their favorite characters.
Be sure to bring your identity proofs and check the daily hours before the visit.
What guests are saying about this tour:
“Fantastic experience! Very interesting tour for cinema and TV series fans. Nice to walk around the sets. The most beautiful part of all is the museum part and the store! Fabulous!!”
5. Discover the dark side of Hollywood with true crime and creepy tales
Learn about the dark side of Hollywood with this two-hour night tour. You’ll be led by an expert as you visit Pantages Theatre, which is said to be haunted by Howard Hughes, and Knickerbocker Hotel, rumored to host the ghosts of the glitterati of Hollywood. On this tour, you can find out the secrets of The Roosevelt Hotel, where people have reported sightings of Marilyn Monroe’s ghost. Hear bone-chilling stories of the Manson murders and other serial killers. I am always excited to discover new things and would love to know more about the thrilling stories of these celebrities and hotels on this tour.
The tour is operated in all weather, so it’s advisable to dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes. Since you’ll be walking around, avoid carrying luggage and large bags.
Haunted stops:
Pantages Theatre (haunted by Howard Hughes)
Knickerbocker Hotel (haunted by several Hollywood legends)
Roosevelt Hotel (houses the ghost of Marilyn Monroe and others)
What guests are saying about this tour:
“Tour was amazing. Packed with lots of thrilling facts but it was actually Matt who made it so enjoyable. He really knows the topic but most of all enjoys it. Highly recommended.” - by Victor (Mexico)
6. Embark on a haunted Hollywood pub crawl
Party like a Hollywood legend with US Ghost Adventures on this two-hour haunted pub crawl. On this tour, you’ll drink vintage and modern cocktails while hearing macabre stories about Hollywood, including the Black Dahlia case. Walk in the footsteps of Charlie Chaplin and Marilyn Monroe on Hollywood Boulevard, visit Boardner’s and Musso and Frank’s, and explore the paranormal hotspots of the Hollywood Wax Museum. Don’t forget to take pictures with your phone! For added fun, play drinking games and trivia with fellow visitors.
Since there’s alcohol and a bit of walking, this tour is not ideal for travelers with limited mobility or under 21 years of age. Also, it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry your identity proofs.
Haunted stops:
Hollywood Wax Museum
Hollywood Toys and Costumes (bone-chilling encounters experienced by ghost hunters)
What guests are saying about this tour:
“It was very interesting and informative and the guide made it extra special” - by Margaret (United Kingdom)
Book Tours : LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
7. Lost Souls of Hollywood Smartphone Ghost Tour
Connect with the lost souls of Hollywood with this self-guided ghost tour narrated by three funny podcasters, which covers 15 points of interest over 1.5 mi (2.41 km). Tourists can visit haunted sites such as Roosevelt Hotel, Magic Castle, and Musso & Frank Grill. If you’re in need of a good scare, you can listen to stories about ghostly figures at famous theaters such as Pantages and Grauman’s Egyptian Theatre. Stops such as Madame Tussauds and Hollywood Wax Museum are also on the table. I am delighted to know that this tour covers so many places and will surely book this one once I am here.
Offering convenient features such as a GPS map and hands-free audio, this tour is seamless and immersive. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to enjoy this tour to the fullest.
Haunted stops:
Magic Castle (known as the “most unusual private club in the world”)
Hollywood Pacific and Pantages Theatres
Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
Grauman’s Egyptian Theatre
Hudson Hollywood Apartments
Vogue Theatre
Hollywood Wax Museum
What guests are saying about this tour:
“The app is great and works fine, the tour is really cool”
8. Learn the dark side of Hollywood and Beverly Hills
Unravel all the secrets of Hollywood and Beverly Hills on this 2.5-hour guided tour. I am delighted to know that this tour offers convenient hotel pickups and dropoffs to ferry you to and from the tour start or end sites. While a guide tells you all about the history of attractions such as Chateau Marmont and Will Rogers Memorial Park, you’ll also visit famous sites such as Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Greystone Mansion, and the Sunset Strip for a rounded experience.
Other perks of this tour include complimentary WiFi, bottled water, snacks, and a multimedia presentation are included. Note that the tour is not wheelchair-friendly. However, you can bring your little ones as infant seats are available.
Haunted stops:
Hollywood Forever Cemetery (burial site of several Hollywood legends)
Greystone Mansion and Park (popular mansion loaded with Hollywood mysteries)
Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park
Hollywood Hills
What guests are saying about this tour:
“Mark was an amazing tour guide. He really tailored the tour to our specific interests and shared so many interesting facts and stories with us. A true high point of our LA vacation.” - by Melissa_B
9. 2.5-hour Hollywood Chills Tour - Celebrity Scandals and Cemeteries
This 2.5-hour private tour will take you to see Hollywood’s celebrity scandals and cemeteries. If you’re in West Hollywood or Beverly Hills, your guide will pick you up, so you can start your day off easy. The tour includes visits to popular attractions such as Hollywood Cemetery, Rodeo Drive, and the Sunset Strip.
Hear the fascinating stories of Hollywood celebrities and their closely guarded secrets. The best part? You can also customize the tour to your interests and enjoy private transportation and bottled water.
Haunted stops:
Hollywood Forever Cemetery (where several Hollywood celebrities were laid to rest)
Greystone Mansion and Park
Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park
What guests are saying about this tour:
“Seeing all the movie stars burial locations and this was the real thing. He showed a lot of burial places at cemetery and helped take some pictures for me.” - by Phyllis_W
10. Take the death tour to uncover the dark side of Los Angeles
Many people visit Hollywood for the glitz and glamour, but those with a darker disposition prefer to partake in the ‘death tour’ that exposes the city’s macabre side. You’ll visit about 75 sites in Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and the Sunset Strip and learn about the tragic final moments of the most beloved celebrities. Furthermore, your tour guide will let you in on several scandalous secrets and stories regarding gangsters, stalkers, murders, and vice.
You’ll also hear police interviews and 911 recordings related to these celebrity deaths, and visit the cemetery where Farah Fawcett, Marilyn Monroe, and Natalie Wood are buried. This tour isn’t suitable for children but anyone that’s 15 years or older will be admitted.
The tour does not allow anyone traveler below 15 years of age or with heart problems and serious medical conditions. Also, the tour accepts a maximum of 14 travelers for a great experience.
What guests are saying about this tour:
“We had such a fun time on our Dearly Departed tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Our tour guide Brian was very knowledgeable and funny. We saw so much in the 3 hour tour. The van was very comfortable and it was easy to see and and hear. You can get out on some stops and take pictures. Very worthwhile. #Recommend” - by Heidi_K
11. Hunting for ghosts in Hollywood
Linda the Ghost Hunter has over 10 years of experience in hunting down and communicating with spirits. She wants to share her experiences and ghost stories with willing participants. Does this prospect excite or scare you? Well, it’s likely a bit of both, and that’s perfectly okay as you’ll be in good hands.
You’ll meet Linda at a haunted bar where you’ll communicate with spirits while enjoying a couple of drinks. Then, you’ll head off to the Walk of Fame at the Hollywood Boulevard and haunted landmarks where spirits still linger and even share their story. Linda will let you use her ghost hunting equipment such as EMF detectors, infrared cameras, and K2 meters to get close and personal with these spirits. It’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along extra money for alcoholic beverages.
The tour is not wheelchair-friendly and allows a maximum of eight travelers.
12. Wine tasting at the Vampire Vineyards
The Vampire Vineyards has a lovely lounge that features tasteful gothic decorative touches. The room exudes a sensual and sublime ambiance and the perfect place to try out those tasty wines, chocolates, and snacks. Furthermore, it’s a great place to bring friends and family along to enjoy a night filled with entertainment due to the bands, DJs, and magicians that perform here. I feel this tour is a must-try for all wine connoisseurs who like to try something new.
Only people that have booked for a wine tasting flight and are 21 years or older will be admitted. Also, visitors may order other alcoholic drinks, coffees, and cakes on site.
What guests are saying about this tour:
“Loved the decor, the wines were good, but eerily quiet for a Friday night in LA. Maybe I went to early(8PM)?” - by Carrie_H
13. Zombie survival game
Do you enjoy watching movies or playing video games involving zombies? Do you think you could survive a zombie apocalypse if it happened in real life? The Zombie Scavengers Game is the perfect opportunity to test out your survival skills while immersing yourself in one of your favorite pastimes.
This game takes place in Jurupa Valley’s downtown area, and you’ll need your smartphone to download an app that’s essential for your survival. You’ll have to work together with your team members and scavenge the area for virtual food, shelter, supplies, and weapons. Use virtual weapons to deal with the zombies and text your guide to stay informed during this grueling game. You can purchase alcohol, drinks, and food during the tour and children should be accompanied by an adult. I am always thrilled to try new things and find this tour to be unique and worth a try!
Note that you will be required to walk for this tour, so travelers need to have a moderate physical fitness level. You can take your time to complete this game as the duration depends on your walking speed!
Book Tours : Zombie Scavengers Game - Hollywood, FL
14. Haunted tales of Los Angeles
Los Angeles’s downtown area hides a murky and tragic past that’s truly bone-chilling. You’ll meet your tour guide at Pico House across from Union Station and then embark on a grim journey through the city’s creepiest spots. You’ll learn all about the Black Dahlia murder, the Chinatown Massacre, and the L.A. Times bombing. Some of the locales that you’ll visit include the Alexandria Hotel and the underground tunnels below the Civic Center.
Due to the dark subject matter, it’s best that the parents of younger participants tag along. Keep in mind that the tour will only take place under good weather conditions and is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. The two-hour walking tour ends at Pershing Square Downtown. The best part is that tour will have a maximum of 20 travelers.
Haunted sights:
Pico House
Barclay Hotel (known for its serial killer activities)
Cecil Hotel (witnessed some unexplained activities)
The Biltmore Los Angeles
What guests are saying about this tour:
“This was a great way to learn about LA. Brendon is a skilled storyteller and kept us all engaged. He shared stories about the early days of the city, the film industry, and true crime sites like The Cecil Hotel. Highly recommend this tour for fans of American Horror Story Hotel and anyone who loves a good ghost story…” - by Diana_D
Book Tours : Haunted Tales of Downtown Los Angeles
Where life imitates art
Hollywood is a strange but endlessly fascinating place. It’s where thousands of memorable movies have been made, including frightening horror movies that have kept audiences in suspense. Ironically, these tours show us that Hollywood can be just as scary as the movies it produces. If tourists want to experience the larger-than-life lifestyle in LA, they can immerse themselves in luxury and grandeur by opting for one of its opulent mansions for rent fit for the stars.
Frequently asked questions about Halloween in Hollywood
History
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