The fourth season of American Horror Story is already shaping up to be a favorite among audiences. And while much of the series is pure fiction, there are still plenty of sights across the country that are reminiscent of the show’s weird goings-on. Here are 4 places American Horror Story fans need to visit. No promises you won’t meet clown Twisty along the way.
Villisca Ax Murder House in Villisca, Iowa
Season One of American Horror Story was all about that Murder House. For those who are willing to brave the real thing, travel to Iowa where you can tour and even stay overnight in the Villisca Ax Murder House. The little farmhouse stands as a devastating reminder of the 1912 homicides of the Moore family and two of their guests–eight deaths in all. The murders remain unsolved to this day.
Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston, West Virginia
The name of this place says it all. Opened in 1864, this 27-acre estate once housed over 2,000 of the mentally ill. The facility was also still in use in the 1960s, the same time period of American Horror Story: Asylum. Due to a general lack of understanding about psychological disorders at the time (and the fact the place was built to house only 250), the patients were treated like inmates and supposedly still haunt the grounds to this day.
Bell Witch Cave in Adams, Tennessee
While Salem, Massachusetts is the obvious choice for fans of Season 3’s Coven, let’s go with a more offbeat attraction instead. The Bell Witch Cave is the sight of the only American death officially attributed to the supernatural. After a land dispute, a witch named Kate Batts supposedly cursed the Bell family, eventually causing the death of patriarch John. Previously featured on my Bizarre Bucket List, this is one locale that will creep out even the most jaded of American Horror Story fans.
Coney Island Museum and Sideshow School in Coney Island, New York
In another life, I genuinely believe I ran away and joined the circus. The gypsy lifestyle of performers appeals to the itinerant traveler in me. But for now, the Coney Island Museum is more than enough for aficionados of American Horror Story: Freak Show. For the truly devoted, take a class in burlesque or fire-breathing. Otherwise, settle in for a performance unlike any other you’ve ever seen. Visit in June, and check out the world famous Mermaid Parade.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Happy haunting!