Lafayette's Halloween: Movie Locations to Visit
Halloween is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by immersing yourself in the spooky spirit of some of your favorite horror films? Louisiana, particularly the charming city of Lafayette, has become a popular backdrop for chilling cinematic experiences, offering fans the chance to step onto the very sets where iconic scenes unfolded.
Here's your guide to some of the most iconic Lafayette Halloween movie locations you can visit this spooky season:
1. "The Conjuring" (2013): The Perron Family Home
The Perron family home, now known as The Harrisville Farmhouse, is the central location of the chilling "The Conjuring." This historic house, situated in the quiet countryside just outside of the city, is said to be haunted by a number of spirits, including Bathsheba Sherman, a malevolent witch who terrorized the Perron family during the 1970s. While the house is privately owned and not open to the public, driving past it or taking a guided tour of the surrounding area offers a tangible connection to the film's unsettling atmosphere.
2. "The Skeleton Key" (2005): The Hootie's Restaurant
Though not the actual filming location, Hootie's Restaurant in Lafayette stands in as a close substitute for the iconic Cajun restaurant featured in the horror film "The Skeleton Key." This lively establishment is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of authentic Louisiana cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the film's eerie setting.
3. "Interview with the Vampire" (1994): The Oak Alley Plantation
While this plantation house isn't directly in Lafayette, it's a short drive from the city and well worth the trip for fans of the gothic horror film "Interview with the Vampire." Oak Alley Plantation, with its majestic rows of towering oak trees and a history steeped in Louisiana lore, served as a central location for the film, creating a visually striking and atmospheric backdrop for the vampire drama.
4. "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (2008): The Lafayette Public Library
The majestic Lafayette Public Library played a pivotal role in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," serving as a backdrop for the film's dramatic opening scene. The library's grandeur and ornate architecture complement the film's poignant narrative, making it a must-visit for fans of this captivating cinematic experience.
5. "The Night of the Hunter" (1955): Various Locations
While the classic film "The Night of the Hunter" wasn't shot in Lafayette specifically, several locations in the city and its surrounding areas served as filming sites. The Acadian Village in Erath, the Avery Island plantation, and the Cajun Dome in Lafayette all play a part in the film's haunting story, offering fans the opportunity to experience the film's atmospheric backdrop firsthand.
Plan Your Spooky Movie-Themed Trip
Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or just looking for a unique way to celebrate Halloween, these Lafayette movie locations offer a chilling glimpse into the world of cinematic horror. So, plan your trip, pack your spooky spirit, and get ready to explore the haunting beauty of Lafayette. You never know what spooky surprises you might encounter on your quest to experience the real-life settings of your favorite Halloween movies!