It’s very easy to become haunt jaded. Many haunt fans that have “seen it all” are prompted to find an extreme thrill, or the next haunt trend. But, there are some home haunts, out in the darkened suburbs of Southern California, that are so lovingly crafted and whimsical that they might just rekindle a sense of wonderment in the most hardened haunt aficionado. Thankfully, they were very gracious in allowing us to bring them to you in HorrorBuzz-Vision 360.

Our first stop is actually a 25 year old mainstay of terror in Burbank, California:  Rotten Apple Hallow. Started as a child’s birthday party, this is now a family (and volunteer) tradition that has long lines of eager fans waiting to journey deep into the Whiskey Brothers Mine. Even the outside has wow factor, as this transformed front lawn looks more like something you would see in Ghost Town at Knott’s Berry Farm. Seriously! It really looks like someone took part of the Timber Mountain Log Ride, and planted it in the middle of a suburban street.

The attention to detail, and crafting inside, is even more impressive. These are real ghost filled caves to explore. In addition, there is a whole western town to wander through if you survive the trip down into the mine caverns. Again, I have to mention that this all takes place in the front yard of a house…it’s almost like a magic trick! Your donations for charity are encouraged at a small table out front, where the tremendously friendly denizens of Rotten Apple Hallow keep the flow of guests descending as quickly as possible. But don’t worry; there is no haunt conga line here. You will have a chance to experience this charming horrifying piece of the Old West in a small group.  Please visit this one if you are in the area, and give generously. You can check out their website here.

Here is a trip into the Whiskey Brothers Mine in Rotten Apple Hallow on opening night.

Heading to the North across the valley to Sherman Oaks, we find the equally impressive and completely whimsical Boney Island. It’s another front yard transformed, but this time, into a completely enchanting playground for skeletons too restless to remain in their graves. Yes, I know it sounds like it’s so family friendly that it might not have a lot of adult appeal, but this place has to be seen to be believed. Almost everything in this yard is moving or blinking (or potentially man-eating). It has a glowing neon green dancing water fountain show that is choreographed to Halloween favorites, some singing hedges, and so much more to take in that definitely requires multiple trips to see it all.

Created by Rick Polizzi, and his fountain show producer partner Rex Danyluk, the show takes almost four months to develop and install every year. They have been delighting the young and old with this display for 10 years. It also has a 40′ foot high, four level haunted treehouse that you are welcome to tour for $10. Like Rotton Hallow, the tour charge, and other donations, all go to charity, so please bring some cash along. The treehouse affords a breathtaking view of the crowds and decorations below. You could easily spend a hour or more just walking the yard, marveling at all the animated figures, mini shows, hidden details, and all around kooky Halloween fun. Check out their website here.

Without giving too many of the amazing details away, here is our 360 degree tour of Boney Island, another must see this season.