Fans eagerly awaiting the final season of Stranger Things can turn to a variety of shows with similar themes. From supernatural mysteries to 1980s nostalgia, these series offer thrilling alternatives to fill the gap until Hawkins’ story concludes.
1. Dark (Netflix)
This German sci-fi series dives into time travel, fate, and family secrets in a small town. Its intricate, interwoven timelines and dark atmosphere make it a must-watch for fans of Stranger Things’ mysterious and suspenseful storytelling.
2. Locke & Key (Netflix)
Following siblings who discover magical keys that unlock hidden powers and secret dimensions, Locke & Key blends supernatural adventure with coming-of-age drama. It explores themes of family, courage, and facing unknown dangers.
3. The X-Files (Hulu/Disney+)
The classic sci-fi series follows FBI agents Mulder and Scully as they investigate paranormal cases. With a mix of monster-of-the-week episodes and overarching conspiracies, it helped define modern supernatural and sci-fi storytelling.
4. Paper Girls (Prime Video)
Set in 1988, the show follows four young newspaper delivery girls caught in a time-travel conflict. It combines 1980s nostalgia, mystery, and adventure, echoing the “kids on bikes” dynamic familiar to Stranger Things fans.
5. Yellowjackets (Showtime/Paramount+)
A survival and psychological drama, Yellowjackets follows a girls’ high school soccer team stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. It explores trauma, dark secrets, and the effects of extreme situations on young people and their adult selves.
6. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)
A dysfunctional family of adopted siblings with superpowers must save the world while confronting personal conflicts and time-travel complications. The series mixes action, dark humor, and supernatural stakes, appealing to fans of Eleven’s adventures.
7. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Hulu/Disney+)
A foundational teen supernatural drama, it follows Buffy Summers as she battles vampires, demons, and other forces of evil while navigating adolescence. The series balances action, friendship, and coming-of-age challenges.
8. I Am Not Okay With This (Netflix)
This dark, witty series tells the story of a teenage girl discovering her telekinetic powers while dealing with puberty and small-town life. It mirrors early Eleven’s emotional and supernatural journey.
9. Twin Peaks (Paramount+ with Showtime/Hulu)
A surreal mystery series, Twin Peaks follows Agent Dale Cooper investigating the death of Laura Palmer in a small town. Its blend of eerie supernatural elements and quirky local characters influenced the tone and style of Stranger Things.
10. The Haunting of Hill House (Netflix)
A family drama set in a haunted mansion, this series explores grief, trauma, and supernatural horror. Its mix of emotional depth and scares makes it a compelling choice for viewers who enjoy suspense and character-driven storytelling.
While nothing can replace the unique combination of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age storytelling in Stranger Things, these ten shows offer strong alternatives. They provide mystery, nostalgia, and supernatural thrills, helping fans stay entertained while waiting for the final season.
