For fans of classic horror, few films hold the same chilling allure as Wes Craven’s 1984 masterpiece, A Nightmare on Elm Street. Beyond the terrifying Freddy Krueger, the film introduced audiences to a young Johnny Depp in his debut role as Glen Lantz. Recently, I had the chance to visit a piece of cinematic history: the real-life houses that served as Nancy Thompson and Glen Lantz’s homes in the movie. Bringing along my friend Blaze, a massive horror aficionado, I was eager to share this experience and show him firsthand the tangible locations from his favorite film. Blaze, despite his love for horror, was skeptical that these iconic Nightmare on Elm Street houses were actually in Los Angeles and, more surprisingly, that I knew how to find them. Little did he know the treat in store!
Nancy Thompson's House from A Nightmare on Elm Street, showcasing its recognizable facade and unchanged colors.
As we approached the house instantly recognizable as Nancy’s residence, a smug grin crept across my face. Blaze erupted in disbelief, shouting, “OH MY GOD! OH MY GOD! IT’S THE NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET HOUSE!!” He practically leaped from the car before it fully stopped, rushing to the front door to capture a photo. His sheer excitement was infectious. Moments like these perfectly capture why I started this website – to connect with others through shared cinematic passions and the thrill of discovering real-world movie locations. I think it’s safe to say Blaze now truly “gets it.”
Blaze excitedly taking a picture in front of the Nightmare on Elm Street house, overwhelmed with excitement.
What’s truly remarkable is how faithfully Nancy’s house, or rather Heather Langenkamp’s character’s house, has been preserved. It looks virtually identical to its appearance in A Nightmare on Elm Street, filmed back in 1984. Blaze was particularly impressed, repeatedly pointing out, “Even the colors of the house are still the same!” Adding to its horror legacy, Nancy’s house also made a reappearance in A Nightmare on Elm Street Part 2: Freddy’s Revenge, this time as Jesse Walsh’s home. This continuity adds another layer of intrigue for fans tracing the film series’ locations.
The iconic facade of Nancy Thompson's house, instantly recognizable from the Nightmare on Elm Street movies.
Close-up detail of Nancy's house, highlighting its well-maintained exterior and familiar features from the film.
Another angle of Nancy's house, showcasing its residential setting and timeless appearance.
Directly across the street stands the house that played Glen Lantz’s residence, famously known as Johnny Depp’s character’s home in A Nightmare on Elm Street. Incredibly, Glen’s house, too, remains almost unchanged from its cinematic debut. It’s genuinely surprising and delightful that both Nightmare On Elm Street houses have maintained their on-screen appearances after over thirty-five years since filming. This preservation offers a unique and almost time-capsule-like experience for visitors.
Screenshot from A Nightmare on Elm Street featuring a young Johnny Depp in his role as Glen Lantz, highlighting his debut performance.
Interestingly, A Nightmare on Elm Street marked Johnny Depp’s very first foray into acting. As IMDB trivia reveals, Depp accompanied his friend, actor Jackie Earle Haley, to an audition for the film. Director Wes Craven noticed Depp and, impressed by his look, asked him to audition for Glen’s part. Depp landed the role, launching a phenomenal career that would make him a global icon. And who could forget Glen’s infamous crop top scene in the movie – a true 80s fashion moment!
Until our next location adventure, happy stalking!
Stalk It: Nancy’s house from A Nightmare on Elm Street is located at 1428 North Genesee Avenue, Hollywood. Glen’s house, Johnny Depp’s character’s home, is just across the street at 1419 North Genesee Avenue.
