Where Was Ahs Hotel Filmed? A Comprehensive Guide
Fans of the hit FX horror anthology series American Horror Story (AHS) have been captivated by the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of the Hotel Cortez, the central location in the show’s fifth season, ‘Hotel.’
This season, which aired in 2015, took viewers on a chilling journey through the haunted halls of the Cortez, leaving many wondering: where was AHS Hotel filmed?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: AHS Hotel was primarily filmed at the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, California, with additional scenes shot at various locations around the city.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the details of the filming locations used for AHS Hotel, providing insights into the real-life settings that brought the show’s nightmarish vision to life.
We’ll explore the history of the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel, discuss the significance of other filming spots, and share behind-the-scenes anecdotes that will deepen your appreciation for this iconic season of American Horror Story.
The Hawthorne Plaza Hotel: The Heart of AHS Hotel
History and Significance
Standing tall in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel played a pivotal role in the fifth season of the acclaimed horror anthology series, American Horror Story (AHS). This historic hotel, built in 1925, served as the primary filming location for AHS: Hotel, lending its Gothic Revival architecture and Art Deco interiors to the show’s eerie and unsettling atmosphere.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel was chosen for its “creepy vibe” and rich history, making it the perfect backdrop for the show’s exploration of the dark underbelly of the hotel industry.
Transforming the Hotel for AHS
To bring the chilling world of AHS: Hotel to life, the production team underwent an extensive transformation of the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel. From meticulously recreating the show’s iconic Art Deco-inspired lobby to dressing up the guest rooms with macabre touches, the hotel’s interior was given a haunting makeover.
According to an interview with the show’s production designer, Julia Benson, on Architectural Digest, the team drew inspiration from iconic hotels like the Chateau Marmont and the Biltmore Hotel, blending their design elements with a dark, twisted aesthetic that perfectly captured the show’s disturbing narrative.
Iconic Scenes Filmed at the Hawthorne Plaza
Throughout AHS: Hotel’s 12-episode run, the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel served as the backdrop for some of the show’s most iconic and unforgettable scenes. From the chilling opening sequence featuring the hotel’s grand lobby to the harrowing encounters in the infamous Room 64, the hotel’s corridors and rooms became the stage for the show’s terrifying tales.
According to Bustle, the production team even recreated the hotel’s Blue Parrot Lounge on a nearby soundstage, allowing for even more immersive and atmospheric scenes to be captured.
For fans of AHS: Hotel, visiting the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel is an opportunity to step into the world of the show and experience the haunting atmosphere that captivated audiences worldwide. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and iconic role in the series, the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel has cemented its place as a must-visit destination for horror enthusiasts and AHS devotees alike 👻🎬.
Other Filming Locations in Los Angeles
The Millennium Biltmore Hotel
While the Cortez (now Barclay) Hotel served as the primary filming location for American Horror Story: Hotel, several other iconic Los Angeles landmarks made appearances throughout the season. One of the most recognizable is the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, a historic downtown gem that has graced the silver screen countless times.
According to Seeing Stars, a website dedicated to tracking filming locations, the Biltmore’s stunning lobby and grand staircase were used for several scenes involving the Cortez Hotel.
The Park Plaza Hotel
Another notable filming location was the Park Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles. This Art Deco-style hotel, with its distinctive blue-green terra cotta exterior, provided the backdrop for several exterior shots of the Cortez Hotel.
Fun fact: the Park Plaza Hotel has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Pretty Woman, Beverly Hills Cop II, and Mission: Impossible III! 😎
Exterior Shots and Street Scenes
Of course, no show set in Los Angeles would be complete without capturing the city’s iconic streets and skyline. While many of the interior scenes were shot on sound stages, the AHS crew ventured out to various locations around downtown LA to film exterior shots and street scenes.
Here are some of the notable spots:
- The iconic Bradbury Building, with its stunning interior atrium, was used for several scenes.
- Scenes were also shot along Wilshire Boulevard, one of LA’s most famous thoroughfares.
- According to Atlas of Wonders, the crew even filmed a few shots in the gritty Skid Row area to capture the darker side of downtown LA. 😨
With its rich architectural history and diverse neighborhoods, Los Angeles provided the perfect backdrop for the twisted and terrifying world of American Horror Story: Hotel. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply a lover of filming locations, exploring these iconic spots is sure to be an amazing experience!
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Behind the Scenes: Bringing AHS Hotel to Life
Production Challenges and Solutions
Filming the fifth season of American Horror Story, titled “Hotel,” was no easy feat. The production team faced numerous challenges, from securing the perfect filming locations to ensuring the authenticity of the eerie hotel setting.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the crew initially struggled to find a suitable hotel that met their specific requirements. However, they eventually stumbled upon the historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles, which served as the primary filming location for the exterior shots and lobby scenes.
Another significant challenge was recreating the intricate and unsettling atmosphere of the Hotel Cortez. The set designers meticulously crafted every nook and cranny, from the dimly lit hallways to the lavish yet haunting guest rooms.
As reported by Entertainment Weekly, they scoured antique stores and flea markets to source unique and eerie props, ensuring that no detail was overlooked. The result was a truly immersive and chilling environment that transported viewers into the heart of the Hotel Cortez’s twisted world.
Set Design and Attention to Detail
The set design for “AHS Hotel” was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment viewers laid eyes on the Hotel Cortez, they were captivated by the intricate details and unsettling ambiance. The production team spared no expense in creating a world that blurred the lines between reality and nightmare.
According to Architectural Digest, the set designers drew inspiration from iconic hotels like the Chateau Marmont and the Cecil Hotel, both known for their dark histories and macabre legends.
One standout feature of the Hotel Cortez was the breathtaking lobby, adorned with ornate chandeliers, vintage furniture, and a striking marble staircase. The attention to detail was truly remarkable, with every inch of the set meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of unease and intrigue.
From the chipped paint on the walls to the eerie artwork adorning the corridors, no stone was left unturned in creating an atmosphere that would leave viewers both enthralled and unsettled.
Anecdotes from the Cast and Crew
Working on a show as intense and immersive as “AHS Hotel” was no small feat for the cast and crew. In an interview with Vanity Fair, actor Evan Peters shared his experience of filming in the haunting Hotel Cortez set. “It’s just such a creepy, eerie vibe on that set,” he said.
“Sometimes you’d be walking down the hallway, and you’d get this weird feeling like someone was watching you.” 😨
Lady Gaga, who made her acting debut in “AHS Hotel,” also shared her thoughts on the show’s iconic set. “The set is so detailed and immersive that it’s impossible not to get lost in the world of the Hotel Cortez,” she told Entertainment Weekly.
“Every time I stepped onto that set, I felt like I was truly inhabiting the character of The Countess.” 👸🏼
Behind the scenes, the crew worked tirelessly to bring the Hotel Cortez to life. Set decorator Ellen Brill shared a humorous anecdote with The Hollywood Reporter, recounting how they had to constantly replace the light bulbs in the hotel’s chandeliers due to the intense heat from the filming lights.
“We went through thousands of light bulbs,” she laughed. “It was a never-ending battle!” 😂
Visiting the Filming Locations: A Guide for Fans
Exploring the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel
For fans of American Horror Story: Hotel, the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel is an absolute must-visit. This iconic building, located at 600 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, served as the primary filming location for the haunting Hotel Cortez.
Step inside, and you’ll be transported to the eerie world of the Countess and her twisted entourage. While the interior scenes were shot on a soundstage, the exterior shots of the Hotel Cortez were filmed at this very location. As you approach the grand entrance, you can almost imagine the horrors that lurk within.
According to LA Magazine, the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel was built in 1911 and underwent a $20 million renovation in 2005. It’s a stunning example of Spanish Revival architecture, adding to the ominous atmosphere that AHS fans crave.
While you’re there, be sure to snap a few photos in front of the iconic lobby, where many memorable scenes were filmed. 😍
Other AHS Hotel Filming Spots to Visit
While the Hawthorne Plaza Hotel was the primary location, several other spots around Los Angeles were used for filming American Horror Story: Hotel. Here are a few notable ones:
- The Millennium Biltmore Hotel (506 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071) – This historic hotel was used for several interior scenes, including the lobby and restaurant.
- The Oviatt Building (617 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90014) – This Art Deco masterpiece served as the exterior for the Cortez’s rival hotel, the Drake.
- The Park Plaza Hotel (607 S Park View St, Los Angeles, CA 90057) – Scenes involving the hotel’s laundry room and kitchen were shot here.
Tips for Respectful and Safe Visits
As you embark on your AHS Hotel filming locations tour, it’s essential to be respectful and mindful of your surroundings. These are active businesses, and their primary purpose is not to serve as tourist attractions. Be courteous to staff and other guests, and don’t disrupt their operations.
Additionally, exercise caution when exploring urban areas, and prioritize your safety at all times.
For a truly immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour or hiring a knowledgeable local guide. They can provide insider insights, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and ensure you don’t miss any hidden gems.
According to TripAdvisor, guided tours can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per person, but they’re well worth it for die-hard AHS fans. 🎉
Conclusion
American Horror Story: Hotel captivated audiences with its chilling portrayal of the haunted Hotel Cortez, leaving an indelible mark on the horror genre. By exploring the real-life filming locations, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous attention to detail and the creative vision that brought this nightmarish season to life.
From the iconic Hawthorne Plaza Hotel, which served as the primary setting for the Hotel Cortez, to the various other locations scattered throughout Los Angeles, each filming spot played a crucial role in crafting the show’s eerie atmosphere and unforgettable scenes.
Behind the scenes, the cast and crew faced numerous challenges but overcame them with ingenuity and dedication, ensuring that every aspect of AHS Hotel was executed with precision and authenticity.
For die-hard fans of the show, visiting these filming locations can be a thrilling and immersive experience, allowing them to step into the world of AHS Hotel and relive the chilling moments that left them on the edge of their seats.
By following the tips and guidelines provided in this article, fans can embark on a respectful and safe journey, paying homage to one of the most iconic seasons in the American Horror Story anthology.
