.png)
From hidden stairs, to historical houses, take a journey through some local haunts
(1) Arroyo Shrine
A small, seemingly insignificant makeshift monument, it remains a mystery as to who erected this meticulously – and perhaps lovingly – made testament to innocence.
(2) Fremont Centre Theatre
Built in 1925, is has been home to theatre productions since 1997. Various sources report hauntings. Gaze into the alluring glow of the stained-glass window, and you may find someone (or something) staring back at you.
(3) Michael Myers House (Halloween)
A must-stop destination for any fan of John Carpenter’s 1978 classic, ‘Halloween’, this is the original filming location for the masked killer’s humble abode.
(4) South Pasadena Historical Museum (Meridian Iron Works)
One of the oldest standing structures in town, this building has served many purposes in its 132-year history (a hotel, general store, and school – just to name a few). Many have felt strange presences throughout the building, particularly on the second floor. Considering it’s storied past, it might just be brimming with spirits.
(5) Baranger Studios (Halloween 3)
Initially the manufacturing headquarters for Baranger Motions, this building established in 1925 was also featured in the movie ‘Halloween 3: Season of the Witch’. It has had several eyewitness accounts from former employees that claim they have seen the late Mrs. Baranger wandering the courtyard and halls, fittingly, during the witching hour.
(6) Laurie Strode Residence (Halloween)
The home of the Shatner mask-donning killer’s sister, Laurie, this house is in numerous scenes of the movie that started it all. Current owners of the home even leave pumpkins out year-round for photo ops.
(7) Snake Trail
A winding walkway living up to its namesake, this trail can be a workout for even the more experienced traverser. Catch the dusky beams of light through the overhead foliage on a fall afternoon, and bask in the eerie nature in this pocket of South Pasadena.
(8) Rialto Theatre
The 94 year-old icon that resides in many SouthPasadenan hearts, the Rialto has endured a turbulent history. Surviving two fires, disrepair, and threats of demolition, it remains a cornerstone in the community. Though not a theatre in its current incarnation, the balcony and upper levels may still be seating for those long forgotten.
(9) Halloween 2 Alleyway (Halloween 2)
Keeping with the tradition of using South Pasadena as a stand-in for Haddonfield, Illinois, this is one of the alleyways in which Myers can be seen in the sequel to the original movie.
(10) Myers Hedge (Halloween)
Another location featured in the groundbreaking film, you can see Michael peeking out from behind this hedge as his sister, Laurie Strode, is walking down the street in broad daylight.
(11) San Rafael Bridge (Arroyo Seco)
An old stony staircase dug into the eastern slope leads to this small bridge in the Lower Arroyo. Whether it be in the early morning or the twilight, shadows cast themselves within the densely gnarled branches.
(12) Oaklawn Bridge
Designed by architects Charles and Henry Greene over a century ago, this bridge is an iconic landmark that to this day wears the aura of something otherworldly; at times one may swear they saw a looming figure perched atop the bridge. Cross it yourself and you may feel as if you’re traversing more than a ravine.
(13) Oaklawn Portal
Originally built as a grand entrance for the neighborhood in 1904, it bears significance as a small architectural icon. Pass through and be greeted by the orange glow and rich history of a paved time capsule.
(14) Grace Mansion Water Tower
The only remaining tower of four that were part of a larger structure, this Frederick Roehrig designed edifice was built in 1891 for a cousin of President Abraham Lincoln’s Secretary of War. The other portions of the building were lost to fires and earthquakes, however the lone turret stands out against a full moon and resembles a storybook witch’s hut when viewed through the right lens.
(15) Secret Staircase(s)
The San Gabriel Valley and LA in general for that matter, is abundantly littered with sets of stairs due to the hilly terrain. There are several in South Pasadena and one that is in the collective memory of the older generation which has either been lost to time, or is one of this town’s best kept secrets. Maybe you will be the next one to discover another?
Stop by to grab your own copy of our Fall print edition at the SouthPasadenan.com News headquarters on 1127 Mission St.
