Some of the most recognizable homes on the big screen are from scary movies. It’s hard to forget the creepy architecture of haunted houses — like the iconic sloped mansard roof. See: “Beetlejuice,” “The Addams Family,” and “It.”
But we can’t let Hollywood claim them all, so we dug up six houses in Louisville that ooze Halloween movie vibes and paired them with a suitable film to match.
Conrad-Caldwell House
This mansion-turned-museum is one of the best examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture that isn’t just historical but pretty spine-chilling to look at, too. Local lore confirms that spirits still lurk in the Old Louisville mansion, making it a perfect location for a ghost movie. Even if you don’t believe in hauntings, the past lives on at this LOU landmark through its historical displays and guided tours.
Movie pairing: “Casper”
The Rastetter House’s main entrance used to face Frankfort Avenue, but now faces Payne Street.
Photo by John Paul
The Rastetter House
This two-story, “I-House” (c. 1845) is the oldest farmhouse in Clifton — even older than the Civil War fort that once stood in the same neighborhood. Most of the original antebellum style has been compromised by renovations, but the facade and porch lend an eerie New Orleans design perfect for century-old vampires.
Movie pairing: “Interview with the Vampire”
The 18th century log house in Anchorage was last on the market in 2020 for nearly $800,000.
Photo by John Paul
Log House
We don’t know what it is about cabins in the woods, but put a group of teens in one and terror just unfolds. This 200+ year-old double-pen log home in Anchorage has been renovated, but still has the five original fireplaces and hardwood floors.
Movie pairing: “The Evil Dead”
Highland Avenue
The hair on your neck stands up just looking at this Original Highlands landmark. The fish-scale steeples and embellished turret signal all things ominous about this red Queen Anne-style home designed by J.J. Gaffney in 1898. Plus, the Original Highlands neighborhood goes all-out for Halloween each year, so it’s in good company.
Movie pairing: “Stephen King’s Rose Red” (miniseries)
Cold Spring Estate
Not only is the four-bedroom home unfinished with peeling wallpaper, but the concrete solarium is begging to be in a season of “American Horror Story.” The 6.71-acre property is nestled in the woods near Cherokee Park, giving it a dose of bone-chilling solitude. It was built in 1867 by the Speed family, making it an important part of Louisville history — and it’s for sale.
Movie pairing: “The Glass House”
The Pink Palace
Your first thought when it comes to cinematic pairings with this St. James Court landmark may be “Barbie.” But the pale pink walls and star white trim of this Victorian home are adorned with enough windows to house a dozen ghosts. Plus, it’s within walking distance of the Conrad-Caldwell house, perfect for neighborly monster mashes.
Movie pairing: "The Others”
If ghosts and ghouls aren’t your speed, check out these cozy fall homes for a more welcoming autumnal feel. Or, if you’d like to see LOU ghosts brought to life on the silver screen, read our list of horror movies filmed right here in Derby City.
