trip 1 for 1 halloween

Check Out These Halloween Travel Destinations In The U.S.

Across the U.S., towns and cities transform into haunted adventure, offering events and activities that range from ghost tours to pumpkin festivals.

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Towns and cities throughout the U.S. prepare for Halloween.

As October rolls in, the air begins to carry a crispness that signals the approach of Halloween. For those who love all things spooky, eerie, and fun, Halloween is more than just a night of trick-or-treating—it’s an opportunity for a thrilling travel adventure. Across the U.S., towns and cities transform into haunted adventure, offering events and activities that range from ghost tours to pumpkin festivals. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly celebration or a spine-tingling fright night, here are some of the best Halloween travel destinations in the U.S. that are sure to deliver a ghostly good time.

The Corwin House also known as the Witch House in Salem, Massachusetts.

1. Salem, Massachusetts

No Halloween destination list would be complete without mentioning Salem, Massachusetts , the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Salem is arguably the Halloween capital of the U.S., hosting one of the largest Halloween celebrations in the country.

During the entire month of October, Salem transforms into a hub of Halloween excitement with its annual Haunted Happenings festival. Visitors can explore haunted houses, attend witchcraft ceremonies, take ghost tours, and visit the Salem Witch Museum , which tells the tragic story of the witch trials. Costume parties, parades, psychic readings, and horror movie screenings add to the eerie atmosphere.

For history buffs, the town also offers plenty of educational opportunities with historical walking tours that dive deep into the town’s dark past. Whether you're into spooky fun or historical intrigue, Salem is a quintessential Halloween destination that’s packed with fright and charm.

2. Sleepy Hollow, New York

Made famous by Washington Irving’s classic story, Sleepy Hollow, New York , is another must-visit destination for Halloween lovers. Located just 30 miles north of New York City, this small town embraces its haunted heritage with full force every October.

Visitors to Sleepy Hollow can experience a reenactment of the tale of the Headless Horseman in the historic village of Tarrytown. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze , a stunning display of over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins, is a highlight that families can enjoy. For the brave at heart, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery offers evening tours where visitors can pay their respects to Washington Irving and hear tales of local legends.

Other events in the area include haunted hayrides, live performances, and seasonal markets filled with Halloween-themed goods. The atmosphere is steeped in legend and lore, making Sleepy Hollow a top Halloween destination for those seeking a blend of history, storytelling, and eerie fun.

New Orleans takes Halloween to a whole new level.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

Known for its supernatural roots and connection to voodoo, New Orleans takes Halloween celebrations to the next level. The city's French Quarter, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, sets the perfect eerie scene for Halloween festivities.

One of the top events is the Krewe of Boo , the city’s official Halloween parade, which features spooky floats, elaborate costumes, and plenty of treats. Visitors can also take part in a number of haunted tours that explore the city’s many ghost stories, visit infamous locations like the LaLaurie Mansion , or join a voodoo ritual to get in touch with New Orleans’ mystical side.

For those who enjoy immersive experiences, the Mortuary Haunted House is one of the scariest in the country. Set in an old funeral home, the haunted house offers a chilling experience for thrill-seekers. From haunted history to modern scares, New Orleans provides a uniquely spirited and atmospheric Halloween experience.

4. Anoka, Minnesota

The town of Anoka, Minnesota , has been celebrating Halloween with gusto since the 1920s. This small town in the Midwest holds one of the oldest and largest Halloween parades in the country.

Anoka’s annual Halloween festival spans several weeks and includes everything from house-decorating contests to scarecrow competitions. The city hosts numerous parades, including the Grand Day Parade , which is filled with creative costumes, floats, and local bands. Other events include pumpkin carving contests, a Halloween ball, and a massive bonfire.

For families, the town offers plenty of kid-friendly activities such as trick-or-treating, craft fairs, and storytelling sessions. Anoka is the perfect destination for those who love a traditional and community-driven Halloween celebration.

5. Savannah, Georgia

With its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and storied past, Savannah, Georgia , is considered one of the most haunted cities in the U.S. It’s the ideal Halloween destination for anyone intrigued by ghost stories and paranormal activity.

Savannah offers a variety of ghost tours, ranging from walking tours of the historic district to haunted pub crawls where you can sip a drink while learning about the city's dark past. The Sorrel-Weed House , one of the most haunted locations in the city, offers nighttime tours that delve into Savannah’s eerie history.

During Halloween, the city hosts the Candlelight Cemetery Tours , which allow visitors to explore Savannah’s spooky cemeteries while hearing ghost stories and learning about the area’s most famous spirits. With its spooky charm and Southern hospitality, Savannah is an unforgettable Halloween destination.

6. Los Angeles, California

While Los Angeles is known for its entertainment industry, it’s also one of the best cities for Halloween enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of Halloween events and haunted attractions that cater to all ages and scare levels.

One of the most popular Halloween events is Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights , which features terrifying haunted houses based on popular horror movies. For a more family-friendly experience, the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride in Griffith Park provides a mix of spooky and fun activities for kids and adults alike.

West Hollywood’s Halloween Carnaval is one of the largest Halloween street parties in the country, attracting costumed revelers from all over. For those looking for an artsy spin on Halloween, L.A. is also home to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery , which hosts film screenings and the Day of the Dead celebration, blending cultural traditions with Halloween fun.

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The Spookiest Places to Travel for Halloween

One visit is a hauntingly good time.

Come October, your calendar is probably filled to the brim with every fall activity you could think of: apple picking , leaf peeping , corn mazes . But if you're one to get into the spooky spirit, there's nothing that gets your cauldron bubbling quite like Halloween. And though there's bound to be a Falloween party in your town or maybe a haunted house , to truly get the full experience, you need to head out to one of these places to travel for Halloween across the country.

Some destinations are obvious like Salem, Massachusetts, home of the historic witch trials and now host to millions of people during their month long festival called Haunted Happenings. You'll also find some of the most haunted cities in America like Savannah and New Orleans and towns with perfectly spooky names like Tombstone, Arizona, that lean into their rough and tumble history.

There are also some more obscure options like Estes Park, Colorado where you may not recognize the town, but you'll most certainly recognize the hotel from The Shining . In fact, there are few options on this list that reference Halloween movies they're famous for. Try an old abandoned asylum if you're feeling adventurous or play it safe with Disney characters. Any which way you decide to celebrate, you'll have a wickedly good time!

Enjoy even more this fall:

• The Best Pumpkin Patches Across the Country

The Best Fall Festivals Happening This Year

The Most Breathtaking Scenic Drives in America

Salem, Massachusetts

Best known for the infamous witch trials of 1692, this tiny New England town is the most popular place to visit during Halloween. Millions of visitors trek the charming seaside town to attend the month-long Haunted Happenings festival. Visit the historic sites all over town, including the Witch Museum and the Old Burying Point Cemetery.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah has quite the reputation for being one of the most haunted cities in America. On any given day, you can take a number of ghost tours. But as Halloween approaches, the spooky celebrations hit their stride, featuring everything from pub crawls to Wag-O-Ween, a pet-friendly community event.

Sleepy Hollow, New York

You have Washington Irving to thank for this quaint little spot being the location of the legendary Headless Horseman. Head to the town for a reading of "Legend of Sleepy Hollow," visit the author's grave at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, and then stay for the Great Jack-'O-Lantern Blaze at historic Van Cortlandt Manor.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

New Orleans, Louisiana

Another town full of haunted tales and ghost sightings every day of the year is New Orleans. But of course, leave it to the city famous for Mardi Gras to make Halloween an epic party. You won't want to miss the annual Krewe of Boo! parade in the historic French Quarter.

Anoka, Minnesota

The little town of Anoka is known for one thing: It's the self-proclaimed " Halloween Capital of the World ." And with such a moniker, you know you'll have to check out the celebration that's been happening for over 100 years. There's pumpkin carving, costume contests for adults and kids alike, pageants, and so much more.

Orlando, Florida

Disney fans, this one is for you! Bring the whole family to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party , which is a months-long celebration from the end of August through October 31. It's more spirted than it is spooky, so it's better for those who love the holiday for its festivities more than its fright.

Weston, West Virginia

What will you find in Weston? It's the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum , which sounds as creepy you would think it is. Along with the ghost tours they offer six days of the week anyway, October provides the perfect opportunity to also host a haunted house, fall festival, and the popular (adults-only) Asylum Ball.

St. Helens, Oregon

Back in 1998, the Disney Channel chose St. Helens to be the filming location of Halloweentown. Naturally, the town took spooky spirit in stride and created a huge festival to celebrate each year. For an entire month, Spirit of Halloweentown offers a number of fun activities from the Great Pumpkin Lighting to a haunted house.

Estes Park, Colorado

Do you recognize that hotel nestled among the Rocky Mountains? It's the Stanley Hotel , which was made famous in classic thriller The Shining . You can stay over and attend one of the many events, including The Shining Ball, where you can dress up as any of Steven King's famous characters.

Independence, Kansas

Since 1919, the town of Independence has hosted Neewollah (which is simply Halloween spelled backwards). It has grown to the largest annual event in the state, hosting dozens of family-friendly activities like a parade, a carnival, a chili cook-off, and a musical with local performers.

Romeo, Michigan

Head to the quaint village of Romeo where every October, a few historic blocks of one street turn into the Terror on Tillson . While decorations start to go up earlier in the month, it culminates on Halloween where thousands of revelers and trick-or-treaters flock to the few blocks to see all the decorated houses and celebrate.

Tombstone, Arizona

What a perfect name for the holiday! Tombstone is rich in history from its days of the Wild West and the shootout at the O.K. Corral. And thanks to that, it also has plenty of opportunities for ghost tours all year. But what better time than October to travel west and experience their Halloween festivities and specialized offerings?

Keene, New Hampshire

Every October (perfectly in time for peak foliage, it's worth noting!), you will find the Keene Pumpkin Fest . It's family friendly and oh so gourd-geous. And don't worry, if you miss the festival, there's still plenty of Halloween-themed events around the area like haunted walking tours.

Asheville, North Carolina

This list isn't shy about highlighting some spooky towns with epic ghost tours. Asheville is up next! Known for the Biltmore Estate and its possible paranormal activity, Asheville is also a city with no shortage of Halloween events like a Wicked Spooky 5K and Pup-O-Ween dog costume contest.

Dixon, California

If you're going to celebrate Halloween, why not do it in the world record-holding corn maze at Cool Patch Pumpkins ? Oh don't worry, they've also got a giant pumpkin patch, a corn bath, a hay castle, and more. Dixon also hosts trick-or-treating festivities downtown for all the kids.

AnnMarie Mattila is the Commerce Editor for The Pioneer Woman, covering products ranging from home, fashion, beauty, and more. 

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13 Best Places to Visit for Halloween Around the World

From Mexico to Romania, here are 13 of the best places to visit for Halloween.

The spooky season is almost here, and there's no better way to honor it than with a trip to a place primed and ready to celebrate ghosts and goblins.

Now's the time to lean into sweater season, the changing leaves, and all things pumpkin — both flavored and decor related. And don't worry — just because it's Halloween doesn't mean you always need to be in for a fright. Here are 13 spooky and fun places to visit for Halloween around the globe.

Salem, Massachusetts

It's almost impossible to separate Salem from Halloween. The coastal Massachusetts community was the site of the Salem Witch Trials, beginning in 1692, which led to the hanging of 19 men and women. It's a place where the air is thick with spirits, but around Halloween, it's a destination filled with merriment too. Each October, the town puts on Salem Haunted Happenings, which includes a parade, film nights, a costume ball, and more, and you're all invited to join .

London, England

London has all the historical trappings needed for an epic Halloween season. It's a place brimming with ghost stories, and the best spot to experience this to the fullest is the Tower of London . It was here that several notable figures were put to death, including Anne Boleyn, the former Queen of England and second wife of Henry VIII, who is said to still roam the halls. Visitors can tour the Tower of London any time of year, but it's just got that extra spooky feeling in October. Visit for a Twilight Tour for an eerie vibe.

Boyne Valley, Ireland

What better place to celebrate Halloween than in the place where it began? As History.com explains, the Halloween tradition began with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain . At the time of its origin, people would wear costumes to ward off ghosts, which means not much has changed (though we're sure they didn't have allegiances to different candy at the time). Now Ireland celebrates with festivals throughout the month of October, including the Púca Halloween Festival , which honors the Celtic new year with music, art, and plenty of sweet treats.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities are serious business in Oaxaca. Though it's a festival for the dead, it's by no means a horror show. As Travel + Leisure previously explained, the event is in honor of those who've passed from this world to the next and is a way to keep their spirit alive today. The celebration takes place over two days, with families decorating the graves of their deceased loved ones and crafting ornate altars at home to further honor them. Travelers can join the revelry in the form of parades and parties throughout the town of San Miguel de Allende, which keeps the festivities going through November 2.

Transylvania, Romania

As the home of Count Dracula, Transylvania has a lot to live up to during the Halloween season, but it more than delivers on its spooky offerings. Travelers to Transylvania can visit Bran Castle , the home of the mythical count, which is open every day for tours. The castle even hosts a yearly Halloween bash that includes a nighttime tour, a party, and an open bar.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a town known for its revelry. Yes, its Mardi Gras celebrations are second to none, but its Halloween parties aren't too shabby either. In October, the city busts out its decorations and its best costumes for parades and parties galore. Don't miss the ghost tours in the French Quarter if you're looking to send a few shivers down your spine before joining the festivities.

Paris, France

Looking for a Halloween event that's très chic? Head to Paris. The City of Lights may not be the place where you'll find the typical trick-or-treat crowd, but what you will find is La Toussaint , or All Saints' Day, a day to remember friends and family who have passed, which is both a national and Catholic holiday. Like Day of the Dead in Mexico, families take this day to honor their loved ones by visiting their graves and placing flowers on top. There are more light-hearted events throughout the city, including parties at Disneyland Paris and Le Manoir de Paris, arguably the biggest and coolest haunted house in Europe.

Scotland, like Ireland, has strong ties to Halloween's past. As Visit Scotland explained, the name Halloween comes from the Scottish shortening of "All Hallows' Eve." While you can certainly attend any number of events to honor the day, for a longer journey, try exploring the nation's Ghost Trail, a map of 15 locations around the nation that are said to be some of the most haunted spots on the planet. End the tour at the Samhuinn Fire Festival in Edinburgh for a delightful conclusion.

Venice and Borgo a Mozzano, Italy

Italy isn't exactly a Halloween-crazed nation, but one place you'll find plenty of ghoulish fun is in Venice. It too is a destination well-known among the ghost hunting circuit, especially on the island Poveglia. The island once acted as a quarantine zone for people suffering from the plague and was even used as an insane asylum in the early 20th century, making it an absolute hub for paranormal activity. As for the parties, you'll have to head to the town of Borgo a Mozzano, which sits just north of Lucca. There, you'll find a massive annual Halloween bash on the appropriately named Devil's Bridge .

Hong Kong loves a good party, and Halloween is no exception. Like other destinations on this list, it's not really a place where you'll find trick-or-treaters on the street, but you will find festive events nonetheless, especially in places like Hong Kong Disneyland , which goes toe-to-toe with its global counterparts for the season. Hong Kong's other theme park, Ocean Park , also throws an annual bash that's not to be missed, and you'll typically find a plethora of happenings in Lan Kwai Fong, the city's famed party district, that are all worthy of a visit (though things have been uncharacteristically quiet here due to the pandemic, it appears that may be changing .)

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia is the place to go in the U.S. if you want to be almost guaranteed a ghost sighting. The southern city is brimming with ghost stories thanks to haunted hotels, buildings, bars, and more, which can all be experienced through its plentiful ghost tours. Because of its connection to the spirits, Savannah is a stellar place to go for epic trick-or-treating for kids and parties for adults. See all of the city's event listings here to stay up-to-date on yearly happenings.

Prague, Czech Republic

Halloween is quickly becoming a more popular holiday in Prague thanks to the growing expat community. Though you'll only find a very sparse trick-or-treating scene, it's a place filled with gothic architecture that feels both utterly romantic and absolutely spooky all at once. The city is even home to a torture museum , which is absolutely more terrfying to visit than any fake haunted house in your home town.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels may not have a long history with Halloween, but it sure has dedicated itself to becoming a Halloween hotspot in recent years. The city hosts parades in Saint-Gilles , and several bars and restaurants host their own gatherings. None, however, are as spooky as Le Cercueil , which translates to "coffins" in French. The bar is spooky all year long and those visiting can toast over a table made from a coffin, one of which comes with clear plexiglass so you can see the skeleton inside.

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Best Halloween Trips 2024: Spooky Getaways and Fun Ideas

When Is Halloween?

Sleepy hollow, ny, savannah, ga, williamsburg, va, new orleans, la, dearborn, mi, estes park, co, las vegas, nv, other fun ideas for halloween.

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Ghosts and goblins, jack-o'-lanterns, and front lawns decked out with cobwebs and headstones…it's soon to be that time of year again. Halloween 2024 is right around the corner. Dressing up as a grizzly ghoul or superhero and traipsing around the neighborhood in a mad dash for candy is practically a rite of passage. We've sharing our recommendations for some downright spooky travel destinations as well as some ways to stay safe while having fun. We've got you covered on all things Halloween 2024.

Sunday, October 31. Halloween is not an official bank holiday, so there is traditionally no associated time off from work and school. Some businesses may close early to allow employees a chance to enjoy themselves; however, this is the exception and not the rule. Some cities, towns, or individual neighborhoods elect to organize Halloween-related events on the Friday and Saturday before the actual holiday specifically so as not to interview with work and school schedules.

Spooky Getaways for Halloween

If you're thinking about traveling this year for Halloween, here are some destinations known for their spooky celebrations.

The legacy of Salem, Massachusetts is inextricably bound up with the events that occurred in 1692, and that later became known as the Salem Witch Trials. The episode of puritanical mass hysteria resulted in hundreds of accusations, 30 convictions, and at least 19 directly related executions. Today, the town commemorates this dark chapter with several memories and museums dedicated to shining a light on exactly what occurred and why. Given their association with Halloween, Salem’s connection to witches and witchcraft make it a perennially popular destination. Make sure to visit the Witch House, the Witch Dungeon Museum, the Salem Witch Museum, and the Salem Witch Village. There’s normally plenty of Halloween-related activities and promotions on offer in Salem. This is one place you won’t be lacking for things to enjoy.

Sleepy Hollow is where Ichabod Crane, the protagonist in Washington Irving's classic The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , encounters the fabled Headless Horseman. The real Sleepy Hollow is a charming little town set along the Hudson River roughly an hour's drive north from Lower Manhattan. Explore the town to visit the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, Philipsburg Manor, and the gorgeous Sleepy Hollow itself. The densely wooded area is filled with many paths and open fields. Wander through Sleepy Hollow cemetery where you will find Washington Irving’s grave along with that of Andrew Carnegie and William Rockefeller. Flee towards town as darkness draws nigh and make sure you’re across the Headless Horseman Bridge with plenty of time to spare. This is a frighteningly good Halloween destination.

Savannah bills itself as "America’s most haunted city." Its antebellum architecture features plenty of locations you would not be at all surprised to see in a horror film. Art lovers will thoroughly enjoy the broad range of artistic styles and tastes on display in Savannah. Visit the Mercer Williams House Museum to see the mansion vividly portrayed in John Berendt's bestseller Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil . Afterwards, work your way towards the river and the Savannah City Market. Often described as Savannah's "art and soul," the galleries here are a must-see. Finally, allow yourself some time to explore this most Southern of towns and draw in its wonderful artistic sensibilities. Spend some time walking the cobblestones on River Street and pay a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. The 19th-century Roman Catholic Church is a great example of neo-gothic design, especially the lovely stained glass windows.

Best known for Colonial Williamsburg, the living-history museum dedicated to preserving the life and times of America’s Revolutionary era, Williamsburg is no slouch when it comes to Halloween. Colonial Williamsburg dresses itself up and offers a range of fun activities including a ghost story tour. Accompany your guide through the historic village and learn about local witch trials. Other tours take guests around to various properties rumored to be haunted at one time or another. The city’s lovely colonial era architecture makes for a fun adventure any time of year. Make sure you visit prominent locations like the Governor’s Palace, a pre-Revolutionary mansion that was home to British royals. Depending on your travel plans, you can elect to stay in Williamsburg proper or make the short drive up from Hampton or Norfolk.

The "Big Easy" is no stranger to a great Halloween party. New Orleans is home to many a shop and museum featuring zombies, spooks, and voodoo dolls. Though fun for Halloween, voodoo has a long and storied history among Afro-Caribbean peoples extending far beyond the notions of possession and spirits. Do yourself a favor and link up with a tour that will help you explore the true meaning of voodoo culture. Another popular Halloween activity is to visit the city’s famous cemeteries. Given its location and high groundwater table, New Orleans has long had to bury its dead aboveground. The city’s famous final resting places are popular on Halloween and include the historic Greenwood Cemetery. Spend some time wandering around the elaborate sarcophagi, but be on the lookout in case the Bone Man comes calling. Finish out the night in the famed French Quarter.

During Halloween, Greenfield Village, the Dearborn’s sprawling open-air history museum, breaks out the jack-o’-lanterns. Over a 1,000 often-intricately decorated pumpkins bring joy and amazement to young and old alike. Greenfield Village is a great place to visit and the neighboring Henry Ford Museum is filled with interactive exhibits that include many cars and a collection of classic steam locomotives. The museum occupies a site on what was once Ford’s iconic River Rouge Complex. The sprawling museum and attractions at Greenfield Village will give you plenty to explore. Be on the lookout for the Headless Horseman and don’t forget to grab yourself some delicious apple cider and doughnuts. On crisp fall days in Lower Michigan, hot apple cider is a real treat! If you have some extra time to budget, wander over to neighboring Detroit.

"Here’s Johnny!" Anyone old enough to remember Jack Nicholson’s bone-chilling performance in Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining can readily attest to the film’s cultural impact. The film was an adaptation of Stephen King’s novel of the same name. King found inspiration for the novel’s location in the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado. Offering spectacular panoramic views of Lake Estes and the nearby Rocky Mountain peaks, the Stanley Hotel is an absolute classic. There's also a musume of classic cars. Estes Park itself serves at the gateway into nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. A UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve, Rocky Mountain National Park contains a multitude of species, scenic hiking trails, river recreation, phenomenal camping, and more. Particularly now when safe and affordable vacation destinations are scarce, you’ll find the wide-open spaces a welcome relief from months of pent-up coronavirus-induced frustrations. Treat yourself with a stay at the Stanley Hotel and you’ll have a Halloween to remember.

Vegas can be a downright scary place year round, but Halloween is something else altogether. Ditch the glitz and glamour found along the Strip and head down to the Fremont Street Experience. Freemont turns into a veritable vampire's ball. Celebrate Halloween Vegas-style with live music entertainment, costume contests, and the chance to win to some serious cash. Freemont is an innovative re-imagination of classic Downtown Las Vegas. Before there was the Strip, this is where the action was. Once known as Glitter Gulch, classic casinos like the Golden Nugget and the Horseshoe were located here. Following extensive redevelopment, Fremont Street is now a popular performance venue. Under a barrel vault canopy, visitors can take a ride on the zip line or hunt for souvenirs. You’ll find plenty to see and do along Freemont Street during Halloween. Come on down and work up a grove as you dance the Monster Mash late into the night.

Besides trick or treating, here are several ways to have some wholesome fun this Halloween.

• Plan a visit to your local pumpkin patch, orchard, or corn maize. Many of these locations love to do Halloween-themed events. Find out ahead of time whether the corn maize is built with one-way paths. This will help you avoid coming into overly close contact with other people. Be cautious when handling fruits at the orchard or pumpkins at the pumpkin patch. It’s normal for lots of people to want to touch things so keep a bottle of hand sanitizer at the ready and use it frequently.
• Invite your neighbors to take part in a local costume parade or contest. Make sure to hold it outside so people can maintain a suitable distance.
• Have a pumpkin-carving contest at your local park. These fun events don’t require confined spaces and would be appropriate to do provided you adopt some minimal safeguards.

There are plenty of ways to have a safe and spooky Halloween. Make sure you do a bit of planning ahead of time, especially if you want to travel to one of our featured destinations.

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The ultimate (travel) Halloween Bucket list, top destinations to get in the “spirit” (2024)

Halloween is the favorite holiday of those who enjoy spending a little time on the dark side. On October 31st ghouls, goblins, and all things that go bump in the night come out to play. For those of us who truly love this holiday, the entire month of October is a reason to celebrate!

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Table of Contents

Ultimate Halloween Bucket List, travel edition!

October is the perfect time to visit haunted attractions and spooky destinations around the world.

Halloween lovers rejoice! From spine-tingling experiences to bone-chilling attractions, this list includes 25 Halloween bucket list ideas for the best places around the world to get in the Halloween spirit and make the most of the spooky season. Start planning your Halloween travel adventure today!

Here are 25 Halloween bucket list PLACES (in no particular order!)

(1) Salem Massachusetts USA

Known for its history of witch trials, in 1692 more than 200 people were accused of practicing witchcraft in Salem , 19 were executed for their “crimes.” Visitors to Salem can experience the Witch House (the only standing structure with direct ties to the trials), museums, ghost hunts, and theatrical performances surrounding the trails. 

When: Year-round but Salem Haunted Happenings festival takes place during the month of October.

bookable activities:

• Salem Boos and Brews Pub Crawl
• Haunt and History Guided Night Tour
• Ghosts, Witches, & Warlocks Guided Walking Tour
• 1692 Witchcraft Trials Walk
• Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour
• Ghosts of the Witch City tour
• Hocus Pocus Movies and More Tour
• Salem Village Witch Hunt Walking Tour

(2) New Orleans, Louisiana USA

New Orleans has a distinct cultural vibe, a mixture of Creole, Cajun, and French tradition, and is known for its voodoo and occult culture and spooky history. Fun activities include tarot card and medium readings and cemetery tours. You can even visit the grave of the famous voodoo queen Marie Laveau. The historic city embraces its haunted history and ghost tours run year-round. October events include haunted houses and the Krewe of Boo Parade .

when: New Orleans has a spooky vibe year round. Krewe Boo Parade: late October (see official site)

spooking tours? bookable activities:

• Ghosts, Vampires, & Voodoo French Quarter Tour
• Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
• Cemetery Bus Tour At Dark
• Night Cemetery and Ghost BYOB
• 2-Hour Ghosts & Vampires Walking Tour
• Haunted Pub Crawl
• Voodoo Queen Tour of Fre n ch Quarter
• Adults Only Haunted Ghost Tour

(3) Edinburgh Scotland, UK

The city of Edinburgh with its gothic architecture and hidden alleyways is deliciously dark, and darkly magical! These are the characteristics that influenced and inspired JK Rowling when she was writing the Harry Potter books.

Explore Greyfriars Kirkyard cemetery with its beautifully ornate headstones, or tour Mary King’s Close , a network of underground streets and buildings. Edinburgh’s poor lived in the Close until the 19th century, and it’s said to be haunted by the ghosts of those who died during the plague.

Special Halloween events include the Samhuinn Fire Festival . For a special dining experience make a reservation at the darkly romantic Witchery, which sits mere steps away from the reportedly haunted Edinburgh Castle.

when: There’s a “chill in the air” year-round. Samhuinn Fire Festival: October 31st (yearly)

• Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour
• Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault
• Underground Scotch Whiskey Tasting
• The Dark Side of Edinburgh
• 2-hour Nighttime Ghost Tour
• Dark History Royal Mile Walking Tour
• The Edinburgh Dungeon

(4) Sleepy Hollow, New York State USA

Sleepy Hollow is the setting for the Washington Irving classic tale, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” one of the most well-known Halloween books of all time. The small town is located in the densely forested Hudson River Valley, the perfect destination for a spooky Halloween experience.

Visitors can take a lantern-lit tour of the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Irving himself is buried, or visit the Old Dutch church and Burying ground from the book, as well as the headless horseman bridge, yes, a real place! Special events nearby in the month of October include the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze , a display of over 7,000 illuminated pumpkins.

when: Year-round, special events in the month of October,

(5) Celebrate the Day of the Dead, Mexico

In Mexico Halloween is celebrated as part of the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) festival. It is believed that the dead could return to the world of the living for a brief time each year and in Mexico that is cause for celebration!

Popular places to celebrate the Day of the Dead included Mexico City and Oaxaca. This vibrant celebration includes a variety of events, including colorful parades. The Day of the Dead, celebrated in October/early November, is a great way to extend your Halloween celebration!

when: last few days in October, first few days in November.

(6) Transylvania, Romania

Transylvania is a darkly forested area, rich in legend and folklore, located in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. The area is also associated with tales of vampires, and was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula novel.

One of the most popular places to visit in Romania is the 14th century Bran Castle, one of Europe’s most authentic medieval castles . The castle has come to be know as “Dracula’s Castle, although it is unlikely that Vlad the Impaler, who is said to have inspired the novel, ever lived at Bran castle .

Also of interest in the area is The Hoia Baciu Forest which is known for its paranormal activity. The city of Sighisoara hosts a “Medieval Halloween” festival with costume contests, parades, and other spooky events.

when: year-round, Sighisoara festival : canceled for 2023, check back in 2024! Halloween Party at Bran Castle : Late October (these sell out so plan ahead!)

(7) Bram Stoker Festival, Dublin Ireland

The Bram Stoker Festival in Dublin includes fun activities such as lighted displays on the River Liffey, a freakshow theater, The Macnas Parade (Cnámha La Loba) on the Eve of Hallowe’en, cemetery tours, theatrical experiences, workshops and a whole lot more!

when: various dates in October

(8) Púca Festival in County Meath, Ireland

The Púca Festival is an annual festival that celebrates the ancient Irish festival of Samhain. The festival takes place over several nights during the last weekend in October and celebrates Irish folklore and mythology. One of the highlights of the festival is the Púca Parade, which is led by the Púca, a mythical creature from Irish folklore. Other festival highlights include storytelling sessions, fire shows, live music and dance performances, and plenty of festival food! This one just shot straight to the top of my own Halloween bucket list!!!

when: late October yearly

(9) The Catacombs of Paris, France

The Catacombs in Paris are a network of underground tunnels and chambers beneath the streets of Paris. In the late 18th century Paris’ cemeteries were overflowing. To solve the problem, the remains of more than six million people were moved to these dark underground chambers.

Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the catacombs whose walls are lined with bones and skulls which creates a wonderfully eerie atmosphere. The tunnels are said to be haunted by the ghosts of those whose remains are interred there.

when: year-round

(10) Alien encounters in Roswell New Mexico, USA

Take a road trip through the desert to Roswell, an area known for its association with the alleged UFO crash that occurred in 1947. Fun spooky ideas for things to do in Roswell include parking at a scenic overlook in the dark of the night and scan they sky for (U)nidentified (F)lying (O)bjects, or visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center , which is dedicated to the famous incident.

(11) The Island of the Dolls, Mexico

The Island of the Dolls ( La Isla de las Muñecas ) is a small island near Mexico City located within the canals of Xochimilco. This island is where your childhood nightmares come to life. Covered in hundreds of creepy old, broken, and decaying dolls, many missing limbs, it is truly frightening.

Legend says that a man living on the island found the body of a young girl who had drowned in the canal and was haunted by her spirit. To appease her, he began to collect dolls from the trash and the canals, and he hung them up all over the island.

Claiming that the dolls were possessed he would often talk to them and offer them gifts. Visitors can tour the island and the canals.

(12) The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Ukraine

The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone is an area of land surrounding the site of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine, the site of the worst nuclear disaster in history (1986).

The 1,000 square mile (2,600 square kilometer) site is today a ghost town, something out of an apocalyptic movie. The area is still highly radioactive and is said to be haunted by the ghosts of those who died in the disaster.

Visitors can take guided tours of the exclusion zone . However, there is a risk of radiation exposure. To ensure your safety you will want to book a guided tour of the facility.

when: year-round (currently closed to tourists due to the war in Ukraine, check back at a later date)

(13) The Tower of London, England

The Tower of London has a chilling history. For almost 1,000 years it was used as a prison and was the location of over 100 executions.

Many ghosts reportedly haunt the tower . One of the most famous is Anne Boleyn who was beheaded in 1536; her ghost has been said to walk around the White Tower carrying her head under her arm. Other noteworthy ghosts in the tower include Henry VI, Lady Jane Grey, Margaret Pole, and the Princes in the Tower. Take a ghost tour around the tower!

(14) Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, USA

Universal Studios goes all out for the ghostly season! Choose either the Orlando Florida or Hollywood California location for your October travel destination! Halloween Horror Nights runs through most of the month of September and all of October.

Get your fright on at one of the many haunted houses and then step into a Harry Potter movie at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it’s for a big dose of witches, wizards, spells and dark magic. Come in costume if you like! Want more options?

when: year-round, special events in the month of October

(15) Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival, Derry Northern Ireland

The Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival is a four-day festival featuring a variety of events, including a haunted house, a fireworks display, a parade, and live music. It’s a family friendly extravaganza!

when: late October, yearly

(16) Loch Ness Monsters, Scotland, UK

The famous Loch Ness in Scotland is shrouded in mystery and legend. The dark loch sparks tales of creatures who lurk deep below the surface.

The Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as Nessie, is one of Scotland’s most well-known Folklore tales. There have been recorded sightings of a creature in the loch since the 6th century. Spend a day on this misty lake trying to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster. While in the area don’t miss the haunting Urquhart Castle ruins, situated picturesquely on the bans of the loch. Here’s how we visited Loch Ness.

Join a tour! There are plenty of tour options on Get Your Guide, some examples:

• Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour
• Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip
• Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour

(17) Lizzy Borden House, Fall River, Massachusetts, USA

“Lizzie Borden took an axe, And gave her mother forty whacks. When she saw what she had done, She gave her father forty-one.” The Lizzie Borden House is the home where in 1892 Lizzy Borden’s father and stepmother were murdered with an ax. Evidence at the time pointed at Lizzy as the murderer but after the case went to trial, she was later acquitted. However, it is a common opinion that she got away with murder.

Today the house is a bed and breakfast, preserved to look much like it did at the time of the murders. If the thought of running into the ghosts of ax murder victims in the middle of the night is more than your nerves can handle, they offer tours of the home as well.

(18) Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia USA

Eastern State Penitentiary , an abandoned 10- acre prison facility, is said to be one of the most haunted places in the United States and is said to be haunted by the ghosts of former inmates. Over the years, there have been many reports of paranormal activity at the prison, including ghost sightings, unexplained noises, and strange occurrences.

Visitors and staff members have reported feeling cold spots, hearing footsteps and voices, and seeing apparitions. Visitors can take guided tours of the prison year-round but during the Halloween season they offer an immersive experience called “Terror Behind the Walls.”

(19) Aokigahara Forest if you dare, Japan

Also known as the “Sea of Trees,” this dense forest at the base of Mount Fuji is said to be home to yūrei: ghosts of the dead in Japanese mythology. The forest has come to be known as “Suicide Forest” due to its high number of suicides. For those who are brave enough, visit if you dare!

(20) The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park Colorado, USA

The hotel that inspired Stephen King’s novel “The Shining” has a reputation for being haunted. There have been many reports of paranormal activity from both guests and staff at the hotel over the years, including ghostly apparitions, cold spots, and unexplained noises like footsteps and voices. You can book a room at the Stanley Hotel and for a really good fright, be sure to watch “The Shining” before your stay! Book the Stanley Hotel here on Booking.com !

(21) The Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California, USA

A sprawling mansion that was built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of the inventor of the Winchester rifle. The house contains numerous secret passages, staircases that lead to nowhere, and other oddities. Sarah Winchester believed that she was cursed by the ghosts of people who had been killed by Winchester rifles. She believed that the only way to appease the spirits was to continually build and expand her house, which she did for 38 years until her death in 1922.

Visitors can tour this house of madness or attend their annual Unhinged: Housewarming event. If you’re looking for a fix and can’t get to this creepy attraction just yet, check out the Winchester Movie (2018), recommended by me!

(22) Las Vegas Nevada, USA

Party it up for Halloween in the city that parties 24/7! Fun events in Las Vegas vary from year to year but examples include ZOMBIE BURLESQUE, Criss Angel Mindfreak, Sistahs! The Hocus Pocus Parody, Blackout Dining in the Dark, Saw and Blair Witch Escape room, costume parties, Rock of Horror Halloweekend Celebration on Fremont Street, Sin City Halloween Ball, haunted houses, and so so much more! Get on over to Vegas and get your frightful freak on! Halloween Night has never been quite so much fun!

when: the month of October, check the official website for current events

(23) Attend the Village Halloween Parade in New York City, USA

The Village Halloween Parade in New York City is one of the biggest Halloween celebrations in the world. The parade features thousands of costumed participants, floats, and live Halloween music. The parade route runs through Greenwich Village and attracts over 2 million spectators each year. If you’re in New York City during Halloween, this is a must-see event.

when: October 31st (yearly)

(24) Pumpkin Patch, Anytown USA

It seems that there’s hardly a town in the United States where you won’t find a Pumpkin Patch in the month of October. Pumpkin Patches are a whole lot of Halloween Fun rolled into one fantastical fall outing! and it belongs on EVERY fall bucket list !

Put on your best Halloween costume and head on out to the pumpkin patch where you can pick the perfect pumpkin and participate in loads of fun Halloween activities. Go on a haunted hayride or get lost in the corn mazes, gorge yourself on caramel apples, kettle corn and pumpkin pie, and try your hand at Halloween crafts.

when: October

(25) Your place, Home Sweet Home (Throw a Halloween Themed party of your own!)

A fun way to celebrate the Halloween season is by throwing a fun Halloween party. On your to-do list: throw up some spooky decorations, head to the grocery store for Halloween-themed treats like candy corn, caramel apples, and apple cider. Light a pumpkin spice candle, roast pumpkin seeds, and enjoy a bit of pumpkin carving while you listen to fun festive tunes like GhostBusters and the Monster Mash.

Now it’s time for some Halloween movies! Good choices include the popular Halloween movie Watch Hocus Pocus and It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. Turn off the lights and tell a few ghost stories and after the kids go to bed it’s time for the adult scary movies…a horror movie marathon!

Other creative ideas for your Halloween extravaganza:

• Create a scary movie bucket list and spend the month of October enjoying a spooky movie marathon.
• A Halloween scavenger hunt is one of my favorite family activities, so much fun! Busy schedule? If you don’t have much time, an easy way to plan this fun activity is with a ready made hunt !
• Gather a group of friends for a spooky fun Murder Mystery party! Here are some great ideas for a murder mystery dinner .

The history of Halloween

Halloween began as an ancient Celtic festival more than 2,000 years ago. The festival of Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”), which marked the end of the harvest season, and the beginning of winter was celebrated on the night of October 31st. This time of year was often associated with death and darkness.

The Pagan Celts believed that on the night of Samhain, the boundary between the living and the dead became blurred, and that ghosts and other supernatural beings could more easily cross over into the world of the living. To ward off these spirits, people would light bonfires and wear costumes and masks to disguise themselves as ghosts and other creatures.

When Christianity spread to the Celtic lands, the church attempted to replace Samhain with a Christian holiday called All Saints’ Day, which was celebrated on November 1st. The night before All Saints’ Day became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which eventually became Halloween.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best halloween attractions in the united states.

Salem Massachusetts, Sleepy Hollow New York, New Orleans Louisiana, Village Halloween Parade in New York City, Roswell New Mexico, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, Lizzy Borden House, Fall River, Massachusetts, Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park Colorado, The Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California, Las Vegas Nevada

What are the best Halloween attractions in Europe?

Edinburgh Scotland, Transylvania, Romania, Bram Stoker Festival Dublin Ireland, Púca Festival in County Meath Ireland, the Catacombs of Paris, France, The Tower of London England , Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival Derry Northern Ireland, Loch Ness Monster, Scotland UK, The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone Ukraine

local recommendations

As you know, this girl’s from Kansas . Here are my favorite local haunts: The Haunted Cannery , El Dorado Kansas and Fort Riley Annual Ghost Tour , Kansas. Always a great time at Halloween time!

Love a good holiday celebration? The best places to celebrate Easter in Europe

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12 Best Halloween Vacations and Getaways for Families

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Want to plan a Halloween trip to experience all the spooky and candy-filled fun? Find out some of the best  Halloween vacations and destinations for your entire family. Scroll down to read more!

This best halloween vacations and getaways post was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Looking for the best Halloween vacations and getaways?

We’ve got you covered! Check out our list of spooky places to go for Halloween in the United States.

We’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for a spooky place to go with your kids or want some fall fun. We have great U.S. vacation ideas that are perfect for families!

You can find a destination that suits your family’s needs on this list of places to go for Halloween or where to enjoy a fall vacation in the U.S.

So, whether you want to spend time at an amusement park or explore some history – we have it all here! So take a look around and see what catches your eye today!

And don’t forget about these other unique destinations too – they’re not just good during October but throughout the year as well!

Keep scrolling to find some spooktacular Halloween vacation ideas for your entire family!

Top Halloween Getaways and Destinations for Fall Travel

Salem, massachusetts.

I had to kick off this list with one of the best places to visit during Halloween: Salem, Massachusetts!

During October, Salem gives visitors a full-fledged Halloween experience. These events include re-enactments, guided tours of the infamous witch trial locations, fireworks, magic shows, and more. 

These are just a few reasons why it’s one of the best Halloween towns on the East Coast.

The Hawthorne Hotel also hosts The Official Salem Witches’ Halloween Ball, which will feature a night full of magic, music, and powerful rituals with special guests.

So if you’re a fan of Halloween or even the history behind the Salem Witch Trials, this will be a must-see for those who live close or want to take a weekend getaway.

The first 100 guests to arrive will also get a special gift bag filled with magical swag. See more information, times, and more here .

While you’re visiting Salem, another great place to visit is the Witch House , a museum dedicated to the Salem Witch Trials.

And you’ll want to do the 1692 Witch Trials Walking Tour .

This is seriously one of the best Halloween trips for people who LOVE Halloween! There are TONS of spooky things to do in Salem Massachusetts . I mean, there’s a reason it’s one of the best Halloween cities for kids and adults!

Where to Stay in Salem:

HAWTHORNE HOTEL : Built in 1925, the Hawthorne is a proud member of Historic Hotels of America and New England Inns & Resorts.

SALEM WATERFRONT HOTEL & SUITES : This is Salem’s newest boutique hotel with lots of modern amenities families will love.

GREAT WOLF LODGE

As the weather gets chillier, it’s always fun to head to an indoor waterpark where it’s always 84 degrees warm and full of excitement!

Each year Great Wolf Lodge puts together a special Halloween event at some of their locations, making it one of the best Halloween family vacations!.

The Great Wolf Lodge Howl-O-Ween event will offer parades, scary-silly Story Time, and Monster Bash Dance Parties this year.

And to make it even more fun, kids can bring their Halloween pails to get goodies as they walk along the Trick-or-Treat Trails.

Great Wolf Lodge locations participating in the Halloween activities:

• Anaheim, CA ;
• Bloomington/Minneapolis, MN ;
• Boston/Fitchburg, MA ;
• Charlotte/Concord, NC ;
• Chicago/Gurnee, IL ;
• Cincinnati/Mason, OH ;
• Colorado Springs, CO ;
• Grand Mound, WA ;
• Grapevine, TX ;
• Kansas City, KS ;
• Niagara Falls, Ontario ;
• Pocono Mountains, PA ;
• Sandusky, OH ;
• Traverse City, MI ;
• Williamsburg, VA ;
• and Wisconsin Dells, WI .

SIX FLAGS FRIGHT FEST

On select days this fall you can visit Six Flags for their spooky Fright Fest, where zombies and ghouls take over the entire park. 

Families can enjoy fun thrills and activities throughout the day, and when the sun goes down, even more spooky fun can be had by kids of all ages.

Fright Fest also brings several haunted houses and various scare zones throughout the park.

Kids, ages 12 and up, can compete in a screaming contest. The winner of the best blood-curdling screams will win amazing prizes.

And there’s even a costume contest for kids 12 and under, with prizes for the best costumes. 

Six Flag parks that take part in the Fright Fest:

• SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS
• SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA
• SIX FLAGS ST. LOUIS
• SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURE
• SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN
• SIX FLAGS GREAT AMERICA
• SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS
• SIX FLAGS AMERICA
• SIX FLAGS DISCOVERY KINGDOM
• SIX FLAGS NEW ENGLAND
• GREAT ESCAPE

SLEEPY HOLLOW, NEW YORK

Sleepy Hollow, NY, is another one of the best places to go during Halloween.

While this destination isn’t recommended for younger children or the faint of heart, older kids and adults can enjoy events like cemetery tours, hayrides, and more.

Be warned! This could get very scary!

Horseman’s Hollow, held at the Phillipsburg Manor, is transformed into a fearsome landscape ruled by vampires, witches, ghouls, undead soldiers, and ghosts who serve the Headless Horseman.

Visitors can walk through a haunted trail and come across scenes of the town driven mad by the Headless Horseman while creatures lurk in the shadows, ready to scare.

This is one of the top Halloween trips on the East Coast.

Where to Stay in Sleepy Hollow:

TARRYTOWN HOUSE ESTATE ON THE HUDSON : Located on 26 acres overlooking the Hudson River Valley, Tarrytown House Estate features impressive 19th-century mansions and a contemporary atrium building.

CASTLE HOTEL & SPA : Castle Hotel & Spa is a medieval-style structure meticulously transformed into a luxury hotel in 1997, 16 years after being designated a historic landmark.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

Another one of the best Halloween vacation spots that are totally underrated is New Orleans. They don’t just do Mardi Gras well!

The Audubon Zoo has a yearly event called “Boo at the Zoo,” which runs for three days in October.

The zoo will feature a monster maze, inflatables, live entertainment, animal encounters, and a zombie-themed ghost train ride.

You can get tickets and more information here .

Ghosts in the Oaks is another yearly family event that you can attend in October.

Kids and adults can enjoy amusement rides, arts and crafts, and even a little trick-or-treating. Also available are balloon animals, air-brush paintings, and musical entertainment.

Tickets do need to be purchased, which you can do so here .

New Orleans is one of the best fall vacations for families of all ages.

Where to Stay in New Orleans:

HOTEL LE MARAIS : Be inspired by an effortless amalgamation of classic and modern. Hotel le Marais is New Orleans’ newest upscale boutique hotel.

BOURBON ORLEANS HOTEL : Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the Bourbon Orleans New Orleans Hotel features a rich history and opulent French styling reminiscent of the early 1800s.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

Arts in the Dark is a yearly Chicago event that takes place only one night of the year. It’s a magical evening parade that celebrates Halloween as the “artist’s holiday.”

The event brings together world-renowned institutions to delight the audience with unique floats, puppets, and creative performances by the artists.

After the parade, visitors can enjoy live music, a kid’s station, magicians, spooky games, Mini Golf, and more. Visit Arts in the Dark for more info on event dates and activities.

Lincoln Park Zoo holds its Halloween event in conjunction with the zoo’s five-weekend Fall Fest celebration and offers engaging and fun activities for families.

Families can find a list of all the events and attractions at the zoo here.

Where to Stay in Chicago during the Halloween season:

THE TALBOTT HOTEL : Located in Chicago’s historic Gold Coast district, the newly renovated Talbott Hotel, ranked “best of” by many travel sites, is pet-friendly and has evening entertainment.

ROYAL SONESTA CHICAGO RIVER NORTH : Formerly The Hotel Palomar, a luxury boutique hotel in Chicago’s River North surrounded by the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and destinations.

MICKEY’S NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY AT WALT DISNEY WORLD

No Halloween event list would be complete without Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort.

In perfect Disney style, the party will go all out for this year’s family Halloween event. The event runs various evenings from August to early November. 

The party is in the Magic Kingdom and includes a parade of Halloween characters and other regularly seen characters in their Halloween costumes, trick-or-treating throughout the park, special dining experiences, new ride experiences, a large show of fireworks, and much more.

Halloween takes over the park in the evening on select dates. Guests must purchase tickets for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party separately from the normal theme park tickets. These tickets sell out quickly!

Families can find more info and dates here .

Where to Stay in Walt Disney World during Halloween:

DISNEY’S FT. WILDERNESS RESORT & CAMPGROUND : The most festive place to stay at Walt Disney World is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

Guests are invited to Tri-Circle-D Ranch for ‘Return to Sleepy Hollow,’ a spooky Halloween event. On October 30 and 31, highlights take place with a decorated Halloween Golf Cart Parade and a Camp Site & Cabin Decorating Contest.

But, you can add special Disney Halloween decorations to any Walt Disney World Resort hotel room to get into the spirit!

OOGIE BOOGIE BASH AT DISNEYLAND RESORT

On the other side of the country, Disneyland Resort has its own Halloween festivities.

The original Disneyland Halloween party at Disney California Adventure is now called the Oogie Boogie Bash !

This after-hours party lets you meet Disney characters in their Halloween costumes and trick or treat throughout Disney California Adventure Park.

You can also see the “World of Color” nighttime spectacular, walk through the new “Villainous!” villain-themed experience at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, participate in the DescenDance interactive dance party, and dress up as a family!

For 2023, Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is celebrated from September 1 through October 31. That means there are more days than previous years for spooky family fun!

Plus, you’ll want to spend time checking out the “Happy Haul-o-Ween” decorations over in Cars Land. Even Mater and Lightening McQueen are in costume!

Finally, you’ll want to experience all the Dia de los Muertos events and decorations. Many of these have a Coco-theme.

This is totally one of the best Halloween weekend getaways to do with kids!

Find out more about Halloweentime at Disneyland Resort and book your discount Halloween travel packages through Get Away Today .

Where to Stay in Disneyland at Halloween:

DISNEY’S GRAND CALIFORNIAN HOTEL & SPA : Since this hotel has a special entrance to Disney California Adventure, it’s the easiest place to stay, especially if you have little ones to carry back after the event. Read my hotel review .

ANAHEIM FAIRFIELD INN : This hotel is right across from the entrance to both Disneyland Parks.

SEAWORLD’S HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

A fun-filled daytime event for those visiting SeaWorld Orlando or San Diego this year in September and October.

Families are immersed in an underwater “fantasea” that includes trick-or-treating, special Halloween shows, and more.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular runs weekends in September and October   and is included in park admission. Guests are also encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes.

Where to Stay near Seaworld:

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS SEA WORLD SAN DIEGO : The Holiday Inn Express San Diego – SeaWorld Hotel is conveniently located only minutes away from the San Diego Zoo, San Diego SeaWorld, downtown San Diego, San Diego Old Town, and the San Diego Waterfront.

HILTON GRAND VACATIONS AT SEAWORLD ORLANDO : A 33-acre Bermuda-styled resort, Hilton Grand Vacations at SeaWorld puts guests near Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Wet ‘n Wild Orlando and – just across the street – SeaWorld Orlando.

BRICK-OR-TREAT AT LEGOLAND

Weekends in October bring the Brick-or-Treat event at LEGOLAND in Florida and California .

Families can journey through the themed trail with their very own Brick-or-Treat bag to gather candy as they walk the trail.

Special Halloween characters like Lord Vampyre, Rockin’ Frankenstein, and more will be walking around for visitors to meet. 

Another event includes a scavenger hunt where visitors can race to find the LEGO Candy Corn.

In the Tale of Pirates’ Cove in Orlando, a fun fireworks Spectacular will go down each night through the dates of the event.

LEGOLAND Halloween weekend getaways are always a hit with kids! It’s one of the best places to celebrate Halloween with toddlers and preschoolers.

Book through Get Away Today to save money on LEGOLAND vacation packages.

Where to Stay near Legoland:

LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA HOTEL : Located right at the main entrance to LEGOLAND California, you’ll be delighted by interactive LEGO features, themed play areas, a family pool, and kid’s entertainment !

See our room tour here .

LEGOLAND FLORIDA HOTEL : This unique hotel features a free full breakfast buffet daily, interactive play areas, nightly entertainment, a disco elevator, character meet & greets, in-room treasure hunt (with LEGO prizes), a heated resort pool & much more!

KNOTT’S SCARY FARM

Every Halloween, the Southern California town of Buena Park transforms into “Boo-uena Park.”

One of the country’s longest-running theme park Halloween parties is Knott’s Scary Farm , which debuted more than 45 years ago.

It’s also one of the largest Halloween events in a theme park, and it includes mazes, an interactive zombie experience, and so much more.

But don’t worry if you have younger kiddos! There’s a less intense Knott’s Spooky Farm with Snoopy and trick-or-treating.

Find out the best kids’ activities at Knott’s Berry Farm .

Where to Stay near Knott’s Scary Farm:

KNOTT’S BERRY FARM HOTEL : Located just steps from world-famous Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park, this hotel has Snoopy meet and greets and even special Snoopy-themed rooms.

CEDAR POINT AMUSEMENT PARK IN SANDUSKY, OHIO

There are two great Halloween attractions and events to visit at the Cedar Point Amusement Park.

The Great Pumpkin Fest takes place on Saturdays and Sundays in September and October. Visits can enjoy fun fall activities, rides and attractions, live entertainment, and more.

On select nights, visitors can also enjoy the Haunt at HalloWeekends, where visitors can experience scare zones, mazes, spooky shows, and more.

Find out more info on all the festivities here .

Where to Stay in Sandusky OH:

CEDAR POINT’S HOTEL BREAKERS : This hotel is located just steps from Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores and has 2 outdoor swimming pools, a water park, and an indoor swimming pool, plus a Starbucks in the lobby.

CEDAR POINT’S EXPRESS HOTEL : Located just a short drive from Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores, this hotel features 419 guest rooms, many of them connecting, with two queen beds featuring premium bedding along with a mini-fridge and microwave.

Places to go for Halloween FAQs

There are a lot of U.S. towns that go all out for Halloween. These Halloween towns include New Orleans, Louisiana; Las Vegas, Nevada; Sleepy Hollow, New York; Salem, Massachusetts; and New York City, New York.

Anoka, Minnesota, is widely recognized as America’s Halloween Capital, thanks to an event that started in 1920 when local authorities decided they needed something besides rowdy kids causing mischief around their community during All Hallows Eve.

For Halloween, the spookiest European cities include London, England; Dublin, Ireland; and Transylvania, Romania. These have long, eerie histories with this scary holiday.

Some fun places to go for Halloween include Salem, Massachusetts; Sleepy Hollow, New York; and New Orleans, Louisiana.

The best vacation spots for Halloween are Salem, Massachusetts, for its witch trials history; Transylvania, Romania, for Dracula lore; and Derry, Northern Ireland, for its Halloween Carnival.

The best fall vacations in the US for families include the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee; Door County, Wisconsin; and the Hudson Valley, New York.

Kid-Friendly Halloween Getaways Wrap Up

We’ve touched on a few of the best Halloween vacations in the United States for families with kids. This is just one part of what we have to offer on our site, so be sure to check out some other spooky content as well!

Halloween can be a great time to take a fun vacation or weekend getaway. No matter where you travel, there will be plenty of activities, festivals, and events the entire family can participate in.

I hope you enjoyed these top places to go for Halloween!

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11 Top Places to Celebrate Halloween Across the U.S.

Grab your costume and embrace holiday-inspired happenings this October.

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Elaborate parades, time-honored traditions, decked-out costume parties and kid-friendly fetes await at these spirited destinations.

The kids are back in school, the air is turning crisp and the leaves are starting to change, but that doesn't mean it's time for you and the kids to hibernate. Whether you want to partake in quirky traditions or kid-friendly events, there are plenty of seasonal activities to pique your interest. If you're ready to celebrate October in an exciting destination, don a costume and trick-or-treating bag and check out these 11 locales that embrace witchcraft, festive displays and holiday happenings each October.

[See: The 7 Best Places to Be on Halloween .]

From Boo at the Zoo to the Fabulous Fox Theater, the Gateway City has plenty of Halloween festivities for all ages. The Saint Louis Zoo hosts a not-so-scary Boo at the Zoo Spooky Saturday with haystacks, pumpkins and an adorable souvenir T-shirt complete with costumed grizzly bear dressed as Wonder Woman. Those looking for more thrills can head to the Fabulous Fox Theater for its popular ghost tour. Docents illuminate tales of ghost sightings and unexplained phenomenon over the 88-year history of the Fabulous Fox.

New Orleans

Often considered one of the spookiest cities in America, New Orleans shows off its haunted hotels and official "Krewe of Boo" parade during the Halloween season. Little ones can also enjoy the Museum Mash, with fun games at the Louisiana Children's Museum and the Halloween Spooktacular Family concert with spooky music and ornate costumes. For a spookier adventure, tag along a ghost tour in the historic French Quarter.

The Emerald City has its own unique spin on trick-or-treating known as Hilloween, due to its Capitol Hill locale in Seattle. This year's Hilloween features a circus-themed indoor carnival with rides, games, bounce houses and more. Other Halloween events around the city include Scream Park Seattle with two separate haunted houses, Festál - Dia de Muertos at the Seattle Centeranda Harvest Festival at Carnation Farms.

Salem, Massachusetts

The notorious setting of the 1692 Salem witch trials, when nearly 20 women and men were found guilty of practicing witchcraft, Salem appeals to travelers seeking real-life holiday magic. The Salem Witch Museum helps visitors understand the original perceptions of witchcraft, interpretation of witches and the "witch hunt" phenomenon that continues today. During the month of October, Salem Haunted Happenings hosts a Halloween festival with family-friendly events, ghost tours and trick-or-treating.

Sleepy Hollow, New York

From late September through November, New York's historic Hudson Valley embraces its most famous tale with the Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze. Imagine a big, bright over-the-top holiday light display and switch out Christmas lights for pumpkins, and you can get a sense of Blaze. In addition to Blaze, a number of other Halloween events take place in Sleepy Hollow. Horseman's Hollow and Irving's "Legend" are scary haunts for older kids and adults. Plus, there are family-friendly activities suited for visitors of all ages, including "The Legend Behind the 'Legend'" at the Sunnyside home of Washington Irving, Jay Ghoul's House of Curiosities and more.

[See: 13 Spooky Places to Visit for Thrills and Chills .]

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah 's combination of battlefields and mystery contribute to its supernatural reputation. The Savannah Ghostwalker Tour highlights stories, legends, cemeteries and battlefields around the city. Meanwhile, younger visitors will enjoy the Halloween hike at the Oatland Island Wildlife Center with family-friendly costumed animal characters passing out candy to little ones. Plus, adults can head to the Boo Bash Halloween Party at the Alee Shriner's Temple, a charity event that includes a costume contest.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Colonial Williamsburg embraces its spooky side with "A Haunting on DoG Street." Ghost tours take place throughout Colonial Williamsburg's historic area, where guides tell ghost stories and recount Williamsburg's witch trial. The "Ghosts Amongst Us" tour for teens and adults takes visitors into haunted properties. Down the road from Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens theme park hosts its Howl-O-Scream event – a scare-fest filled with zombies, ghouls and other ghastly creatures.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

The home of the Chattanooga Choo Choo is also home to some famous haunted sites including Ruby Falls Haunted Cavern. Rated as one of the top Halloween haunts in the country, Ruby Falls Haunted Cavern opens in a new location for 2017 creating Dread Hollow in the Chattanooga Valley. In addition to Ruby Falls Haunted Cavern's Dread Hollow, families looking for more frights and delights can check out Winnepespookah! on Lake Winnepesaukah. Less frightening attractions in the area include the Halloween Eerie Express, Boo in the Zoo at the Chattanooga Zoo and a "Boo"-ze Cruise on the Chattanooga River.

Theme parks across Orlando don costumes and elaborate decorations for a variety of holiday events, ranging from not-so-scary to spine-tingling activities. SeaWorld Orlando, Legoland Florida and Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom all host family-friendly Halloween parties where the youngest of visitors can collect a plethora of treats, while Universal Orlando Resort offers more thrilling diversions for older visitors.

Fort Worth, Texas

Trick-or-treating through historic stockyards are just one Fort Worth's Halloween activity. The Fort Worth Ghost Bus takes visitors to spooky sites around the city, and the Cowtown Winery Ghost Tour focuses on the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. On Halloween itself, the Stockyards offers trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating, hayrides and more in the free family-friendly event.

[See: 10 Hotels With Spooky Halloween-Themed Events .]

Buena Park, California

The Southern California town of Buena Park transforms into "Boo-uena" Park for fall events that include the longest-running theme park Halloween party in the country. Knott's Berry Farm offered the first-ever Halloween event when it transformed into Knott's Scary Farm 45 years ago; now the largest such event, it includes mazes and an interactive zombie experience. A less intense Knott's Spooky Farm is offered for younger kids with less scares, more Snoopy and trick-or-treating. Other Buena Park Halloween events include Vampirate's Halloween Show at the Pirate's Dinner Adventure theater, Rock & Brews Monster Beer Fest and the Silverado Days Festival. Near Buena Vista, families can also visit Disneyland to enjoy with Mickey's Halloween Party and the first-ever Halloween events at the Disney California Adventure theme park including: Cars Land "Haul-O-Ween" and Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark.

50 Small towns Across America With Gorgeous Fall Foliage

Small towns with gorgeous fall foliage.

Tags: Travel , Vacations

About En Route

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Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

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Places to eat, places to shop, places to stay.

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Upcoming Events

Conjuring the Spirit World: Art, Magic, and Mediums

The Salem Haunted Magic Show presents: HYSTERIA: MENTALISMO!

Kid's Broom Decorating

Haunted Happenings Marketplace

Stop In For a Spell: DIY Broom Decorating

Stop In For a Spell: DIY Witch Hat Decorating

Salem Haunted Happenings

There is so much to do during Salem Haunted Happenings! Dive into history at a museum, find an adrenaline rush in a haunted house, seek out your future at a psychic fair, or explore Salem’s countless stories on a tour.

From sit-down to take-out, creative cocktails to grab-and-go, Salem restaurants are ready to serve a memorable meal!

Shopping in Salem is a unique experience, whether you’re seeking spells in the Witch shops or buying gifts and souvenirs to remember your trip.

Salem offers a great selection of accommodations, including full-service hotels, a seaside campground, or a historic B&B.

Everything in Salem now fits in the palm of your hand!

Find special events, restaurants, activities, shopping, lodging, maps and more with this free app!

About Salem Haunted Happenings

In 1982, the Salem Chamber of Commerce and the Salem Witch Museum planned the first SALEM HAUNTED HAPPENINGS FESTIVAL during Halloween weekend.

The festival was an effort to provide family-friendly events for guests who were interested in visiting the “Witch City.” With about 50,000 guests in attendance in its first year, the annual event continued to grow each season, drawing everyone from families, couples, history buffs, and Halloween enthusiasts worldwide.

Whether you are planning a visit to Salem this October or you are already here, you may be curious about why Salem is so synonymous with Halloween.

A page dedicated to our residents of Salem, MA. Information on road closures, Mayor’s Night Out, and more.

Hocus Pocus

Are you coming to run Amok? Click here for Hocus Pocus-themed events and locations.

Plan your visit to Salem Haunted Happenings

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Congrats to Black Veil on their brand new space at 304 Essex St! 🖤 The Shoppe for the Grim Hearted is officially open, you’ve got to check it out. 🕯️ @blackveiltattoo 📷 @‌maplesugarwitch ...

If Taylor Swift made a stop in Salem, where do you think her favorite hangout would be? 🎃 Would she take a stroll down Essex Street or find a cozy corner to write her next hit? 📷 @lobaczzz ...

It’s 1692. Bridget Bishop stands accused of witchcraft... and YOU are the jury. 🖤 Cry Innocent has kicked off its 2024 season at Old Town Hall! Experience history like never before — get your tickets now! 📷 @kimindresano ...

Salem in the fall is pure magic! 🎃 Grab your gourds and head over for the ultimate autumn experience. Did you know you can take the MBTA to get here? Check their website for details and plan your visit today! @‌mbta_cr 📷 @lmdm21 ...

Ever wondered how to cast your own spell? Look no further than Within A Witching Hour Spellcasting. A hands-on, family-friendly experience that invites everyone create magic together. 🌙🔮 See our blog for more details! https://buff.ly/47zokQx 📷 Jess Shada / Destination Salem @shada_photoanddesign @buryingpointproductions ...

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Where the Legend Lives

• Armour-Stiner Octagon House
• Blessing of the Animals
• Christ Church Fall Fair
• Sleepy Hollow Show & Tell
• Tours of Historic Christ Church (Washington Irving’s parish)
• David Rockefeller Creative Arts Center at Pocantico
• Headless Horseman Bridge
• Headless Horseman Statue
• Historical Society
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• Old Croton Aqueduct Trail
• The Legend of Sleepy Hollow at Old Dutch Church
• Legend of Sleepy Hollow Discovery Walk
• The Spirits of Sleepy Hollow Country
• Twilight Village at Sleepy Hollow
• Hulda’s Night at Rockefeller State Park
• Pocantico Hills Marathon & Half Marathon
• Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Tours
• Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Special Events
• Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse
• Stone Barns Center
• Irving’s Legend
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• Events Calendar
• Planning the Ultimate Halloween Trip to Sleepy Hollow, NY
• Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
• Lyndhurst After Dark
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Sleepy Hollow Haunted Hayride

• Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival

Sleepy Hollow Street Fair

• SUP Witches of Sleepy Hollow Festival

Tarrytown Halloween Parade

• Dracula and the Theater of Doom
• Tarrytown Music Hall Ghost Tours
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• Sleepy Hollow Souvenirs

Twilight Village at Sleepy Hollow

• Apple Picking
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• The Other Ghosts of Sleepy Hollow
• Sleepy Hollow Country
• How Charles Dickens Stole Christmas
• Movies Made Here

Halloween in Sleepy Hollow Country

In sleepy hollow country.

Sleepy Hollow Halloween

Halloween in Sleepy Hollow has something for everyone: haunted hayrides, Gothic mansions, blazing pumpkins, farmers markets, live music, street fairs, our famous Halloween 10K run (costumes welcome!), Halloween parade, and of course, the Headless Horseman!

Most October events sell out, especially weekend time slots. We strongly recommend you buy tickets before arriving.

What to see

There's so much to do in Sleepy Hollow Country when the leaves turn color. Start planning your adventure here!

September 2024 Update: Most events below have confirmed for 2024. We post information as soon as it is publicly available, so stay tuned here!

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze More than 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins set against the mysterious backdrop of 18th-century buildings!

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Tours Day and evening guided walking tours of this historic 90-acre cemetery.

Irving's Legend Master storyteller Jonathan Kruk casts a spell with dramatic performances of the classic tale!

Lyndhurst After Dark There's nothing like a Gothic mansion after hours!

Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival Returns to Sleepy Hollow for 3 October nights!

Historical Society Tours Explore the history of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow!

Hulda's Night Follow local legends into the night time woods of Rockefeller State Park!

Tarrytown Halloween Parade 21st annual parade followed by block party!

Music Hall Ghost Tours Spirits linger in this picturesque Victorian era theatre!

Haunted Hayride Climb aboard Sleepy Hollow’s annual Haunted Hayride and hold on to your head!

Octagon House Myths & Mysteries Delve into the myths and mysteries of this eight-sided house!

Home of the 'Legend' Outdoor family fun on the grounds of Washington Irving’s estate!

Spirits of Sleepy Hollow Country Once thought long departed, these spirits are still present and have quite a bit to say!

Farmers Markets Fresh Hudson Valley produce, meat, bread, cut flowers, dairy products, preserves, wine, and beer!

Oktoberfest Celebrate the season on the shore of the Hudson River. Food, beverages, family fun!

Twilight Village at Sleepy Hollow An evening filled with folklore, fortune-telling, spooky entertainment, a Halloween night market

Sleepy Hollow Street Fair Food, music, local retailers, arts & crafts, plus Halloween and Holiday items!

Sleepy Hollow Show & Tell Stories about odd objects and curiosities from around Sleepy Hollow!

Glass Pumpkin Patch Showcasing over 1,000 whimsical, vibrantly colored glass pumpkins!

Dracula & The Theatre of Doom Dracula is back at Tarrytown Music Hall for another terrifying year!

Where to see the Headless Horseman

Hulda's Night at Rockefeller State Park

Irving's Legend

Sleepy Hollow Halloween 10K

The schedule

We do our best to keep the Sleepy Hollow Halloween calendar up-to-date, but to avoid disappointment you should contact establishments in advance to confirm hours of operation, rates, and availability.

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Halloween Tours & Trips

Do you love dressing up, carving out pumpkins, and all things spooky? Then a Halloween tour is for you! Explore ghost towns in the  USA , dance the night away at a Halloween party like no other at a castle in  Transylvania , or round off your October adventure with a trip to  Mexico  for an unforgettable celebration of the dead. If you love Halloween you owe it to yourself to attend the spookiest events set against the most hauntingly beautiful backdrops the world has to offer.

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Best places to go for halloween.

Attend a Halloween party at Dracula's Castle

One of the most coveted party spots for Halloween is Dracula’s Castle! Located in Transylvania, Bran Castle is the rumored inspiration for the setting of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. If you’re lucky, you can attend a Halloween party in this hallowed (and possibly haunted!) castle. Several companies, such as G Adventures , host tours that culminate in an unforgettable Halloween bash at Dracula’s Castle.  

Visit spooky towns in the United States

There are several towns across the United States that seem to celebrate Halloween year-round! Visit a real-life ghost town in Montana, explore the Stanley Hotel from Stephen King’s The Shining, or take a history lesson from the site of the Salem Witch Trials. There are also a number of towns whose culture and history make them perfect Halloween destinations; the Spanish moss covering the trees in Savannah , the creepy underground tunnels in Seattle , the Halloween celebrations in Sleepy Hollow - the possibilities are endless! 

Head to Mexico for Day of the Dead

While one may imagine a holiday dedicated to the dead to be dreary, on the contrary, Day of the Dead is an incredibly joyful and colorful festival celebrated all over the world. The festivities in Mexico are filled with dancing, carnivals, incredible costumes, parades, traditional food, beautiful marigold flower displays, iconic altars, and cemetery celebrations at the gravesites of loved ones.

More Top Halloween Destinations

Transylvania, facts about halloween, when is halloween.

Halloween is always celebrated on October 31st, the day before All Saints Day (November 1st). The name is an abbreviation of the words “hallowed evening,” which is why you’ll occasionally find it spelled “Hallowe’en.” 

What countries celebrate halloween?

Traditional Halloween practices, such as carving pumpkins and trick or treating, began in Ireland , where Halloween is still widely celebrated. However, many of the largest Halloween celebrations currently take place in North America . While traditionally the celebrations have been limited to the West, Halloween has become increasingly popular in parts of Asia and Australia . 

What does Halloween stand for?

Halloween began 2,000 years ago as the festival Samhain (pronounced sow-in), which marked the end of summer and acknowledged the dead. On Samhain, it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. The word Halloween is a contraction of the words “Hallowed Evening,” as the day takes place before All Saint’s Day on November 1st. 

How did trick or treating start?

There are several English, Irish, and Scottish traditions that mirror trick or treating (the practice of children going door-to-door and asking for sweets by saying “trick or treat”), and the common belief is that each of these traditions was brought to North America by immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries. As the traditions blended together, modern trick or treating was born!

What should I pack for a Halloween tour?

First and foremost: if you’re going to be attending a Halloween party, you’ll need a costume! Costumes can range from simple masks or face paint to large-scale homemade creations. Figures from popular culture, characters from beloved movies or books, and topical political jokes or statements are all often worn: it’s up to you!

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How to get to dracula's castle.

International flights are available to Bucharest from European cities such as London, Paris, and Rome, as well as more distant destinations like New York. Flying to Dracula’s Castle means taking a flight to Bucharest and then travelling the remaining distance (roughly 180 kilometres) via other transportation, such as the train route. 

The only way to access Dracula’s Castle (Bran Castle) by train is via a route which begins in Bucharest Nord. The Brasov train will take you to the castle in about three and a half hours, for approximately 10 euros. Trains run hourly, and you’ll have to factor in any other transportation (to Bucharest Nord) before making the decision to travel to Dracula’s Castle by train. 

Board a train in Bucharest at Gara de Nord station that departs to Brasov. In Brasov, go inside the train station and ask to go to Bran Castle by bus. As the routes sometimes change, it’s best to ask at the info desk upon arrival. But generally bus terminal No. 2 Brasov provides regular rides between Brasov and Bran - Moeciu and return trips. The entire journey takes several hours (approximately 3.5).

Renting a car is the optimal choice for getting yourself to Bran. From Bucharest, head north on DN1/E60, pass by Ploiesti, continue to follow DN1/E60, after Azuga turn left on DN73A, at Rasnov turn left onto DN73/E574, drive 10KMs and Bran Castle will be on the left. If you’re driving to Bran Castle from Brasov, head northwest to Rasnov on DN73/E574, continue straight to Bran, castle will be on the left.

A ride to Bran Castle from Bucharest, takes about 2.5hrs drive. At Otopeni-Bucharest Airport there is a taxi station right in front of the international arrivals. This trip cost can vary so check beforhand.

Accommodation

Travellers have said that there isn't much to do in Bran so, despite the longer commute, it's suggested that you stay in and around Brasov. Bran is a village with less than 6,000 people while Brasov is a city with over 200,000 residents. There are many guest houses to choose from along the way but as long as you stay near the main train station in Brasov.

The History of Halloween

Descriptions of events very similar to modern celebrations of Halloween can be found in texts that describe ancient Celtic festivals, early Roman Catholic holidays, and even medieval times.  In ancient times (think pre-Christian), the Celtic festival of Samhain was celebrated on the night of October 31st. The Celts believed that the dead used the night of Samhain to return to Earth. To celebrate, people would hold large gatherings at bonfires and pay homage (sometimes by providing sacrifices) to honor their deceased loved ones. In some villages, residents would dress in animal skins and wear masks in order to go unnoticed by potentially malevolent spirits. They would also lay out banquets with food and drinks to appease these ill-intentioned ghosts.  By the time the ninth century came around, Christianity was spreading through the Celtic lands and old traditions merged with newer ones. Around 1000 A.D. the church designated November 2nd as All Souls’ Day, a time to honor the deceased. These celebrations retained some of their pagan Celtic roots with their use of bonfires and masks. Poorer villages would visit the homes of the wealthy to receive pastries referred to as “soul cakes” in exchange for the promise that they would pray for the wealthy family’s dead relatives. In Scotland and Ireland, children would dress up in costume and entertain neighboring households with a song or trick in exchange for food or money. This practice is probably the closest to modern-day celebrations of Halloween.  Also if you’ve ever been told to be wary of black cats, you can give credit to medieval celebrations of Halloween. In the Middle Ages, everyone and their mom seemed to have witch fever. They feared witches so strongly that they began to believe that these magical ladies were capable of transforming into cats to avoid detection. Funnily enough, this superstition has managed to stand the test of time and to this day people are warned not to allow black cats to cross their paths. 

Did you know?

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Add these seasonal favorites to your bucket list.

If you love to go all out for your favorite holiday, you might like to add these other seasonal tour packages to your bucket list!

Christmas Markets

Head to Europe for the festive season and feel the magic come alive! Wander through markets of mulled wine, toasty warm treats and treasures you'll only find at this time of year.

What better way to ring in the New Year than at some of the world's biggest parties? From Hogmanay in Scotland to the ball drop in New York, discover the perfect start to your year right here!

Northern Lights

Scoring its way onto many bucket lists, the Aurora Borealis is an experience not to be missed! Time your adventure to Iceland, Norway, Finland (or even Canada!) to witness a performance in the skies.

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11 Halloween Getaways for Families

By Frommer's Staff

WeJustGotBack.com

Plan a getaway at a family-friendly resort in October, and the chances are excellent that you'll run across more than a few ghouls and goblins. Here's a sampling of hotels and resorts that are hosting special Halloween events in October: Nickelodeon Family Suites Where: Orlando, FL Why: Because October is " Nick or Treat " month at the Nickelodeon Family Suites . The hotel's activities range from paint-your-own-pumpkins and Halloween games to trick-or-treating with favorite Nick stars. On Saturday evenings, "Nick After Dark" kicks off with spooky movies, snacks, and plenty of slime. Family suites start at $144 per night. Book two nights, and you'll get a third night free with the Free-for-Fall special. Great Wolf Lodge Where: Twelve locations in this popular chain of indoor water park resorts in the U.S. and Canada, including the Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, VA Why: Because this year's " Howl-O-ween at the Wolf " features a trick-or-treat trail, pumpkin painting, a trolley ride to a "haunted" cemetery, a costume contest, Halloween-themed arts and crafts, and more. Available Sundays to Thursdays Oct. 6-31 from $239 per room per night. John Carver Inn & Spa Where: Plymouth, MA Why: Because the one-night " Haunted Stays and Corn Maize Package " saves you up to 30% on lodging at the John Carver Inn & Spa , plus you get two tickets to a local corn maze, where there are hay rides, a cow train ride, and a corn cannon. The package also includes two tickets to a 90-minute "Ghosts & Legends" walking history tour, which points out the most haunted spots in town (including the inn). Available Fridays and Saturdays through Oct. 30 from $155 per room per night. Woodloch Resort Where: Hawley, PA Why: Because fun-filled weekends at this all-inclusive family-run resort include a haunted hayride, scavenger hunt, costume party, pumpkin hunt, ghost stories by the campfire, a petting zoo, and many other fall activities. Available Oct. 14-16, 21-23 and 28-30: on the first two weekends at Woodloch Resort , the all-inclusive, two-night package starts at $398 per adult, and from $136 per child over 3; on the last weekend, the adult rate drops to $328. Six Flags Great Escape Lodge Where: Lake George, NY Why: Because the " Fright Fest Spooktacular " package at this indoor water park resort includes unlimited admission to the water park and 20 free arcade tokens per child. Plus, families have the run of the park's Halloween entertainment, which includes haunted hayrides, wandering zombies, and a spooky street party. Available Oct. 7-30 from $278 per room per night. Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa & Marina Where: San Diego, CA Why: Because this upscale resort perched along the coastline is near the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and other family-friendly attractions. For Halloween weekend at the Hyatt Regency , expect a hula-hoop and monster mash contests, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treat bag decorating, and more. The pool area is all decked out, too -- eerie fog on the waterslides, spooky lighting, and haunted music, plus spider-webbed pool cabanas and creepy cocktails for adults. Come nightfall, families can trick-or-treat around the property, and then enjoy a family movie at the pool. Rates start at $169 per room per night, with breakfast for two. Red Jacket Beach Resort Where: Cape Cod, MA Why: Because this beachfront resort on the Nantucket Sound is idyllic in fall -- and it has a Halloween party planned for both kids and the grown-ups. The Haunted Hotel weekend offers a dive-in movie at the indoor pool, treasure hunts, and supervised kids' activities during the evening, so that parents can go to a live-music party of their own. There will also be "sightings" of a 19th-century captain and crew, whose ship was the original Red Jacket. The two-night package starts at $99 per room per night and includes two tickets to the adult party (the kids' party costs extra). The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation Where: Greensboro, GA Why: Because this secluded resort on Lake Oconee is having a Halloween party every Saturday night in October, with pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating and ghost stories around a campfire in the adjacent forest. Kids ages 5 to 12 can also play during the day at the Ritz Kids Club, open all year. The Great Pumpkin package , which starts at $305 per room per night, includes a carving kit and a $25 daily resort credit. YMCA of the Rockies Where: Estes Park, CO and Snow Mountain Ranch, CO Why: Because these popular family camps are doing Family Fall Fest Weekends during the last two weekends of October, with activities such as pumpkin-throwing contests, costumed roller skating, tours of an "enchanted forest," and s'mores around the campfire. The two-night package ($340 for a family of four with kids ages 6 to 12; kids 5 and under are free) includes five buffet-style meals and all weekend activities. Club Med Sandpiper Bay Where: Port St. Lucie, FL Why: Because this all-inclusive, family-friendly resort is putting on a big Spooktacular Halloween party every week in October, with activities for infants, toddlers, kids, teens, and grown-ups. The Club Med Sandpiper Bay will host costume dress-ups, trick-or-treating, spellbinding games and prize giveaways, as well as Halloween-themed dance parties. Seven-night packages start at $810 per person as part of the Seven Day Weekend deal. Tarrytown House Estate Where: Tarrytown, NY Why: Because this grand inn north of New York City has a history of its own ghosts, yet this season's focus is more on whimsy with the Blaze package . The $199 room rate -- and $25 extra for each child -- gets you breakfast daily and tickets to the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze, a local exhibit that features more than 4,000 hand-carved jack o' lanterns, such as super-size dinosaurs, pirates, and even a huge spinning UFO. If you want a chance at seeing some ghosts back at the hotel, ask for a room in the estate's 169-year-old King Mansion (some people swear it's haunted). WeJustGotBack.com is an award-winning family travel site, featuring reviews of kid-friendly hotels and resorts, expert planning advice, readers' travel tips, and more. Want an easy way to find out about vacation deals? Sign up for our family travel e-newsletter . Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter . Talk with fellow Frommer's travelers on our Family Travel Forum.

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How to experience both Halloween and Christmas with 1 trip to Disney World

Written by: Sheena Mutchler 

Did you know there is a magical time where you can visit Disney World and experience both Halloween and Christmas? Overnight on October 31st, there is a special team of cast members that transfroms Magic Kingdom from pumpkins to christmas bulbs with Hollywood Studios following not far behind and Animal Kingdom and Epcot not long after that. Wanting to visit Disney World during fall or winter and can’t decide? Thats ok. There is a sweet spot where you get to experience both. Here is my honest view point on doing just this! My family and I recently took a trip to the middle of the magic from October 29th-November 5th, 2022! My family of 5 crammed as much park time as we could so that we could experience as much of both Holidays as possible. We had 6 day park hopper tickets and utilized the park hopper capability the first 2 days so that we could experience all 4 parks before October ended. We also made sure to explore some of the resorts to experience what they had to offer!

To be honest we didn’t experience anything Halloween or fall related at Animal Kingdom, Epcot or Hollywood Studios, but fall at Magic Kingdom was beautiful! The fall decorations did not dissapoint and the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, which I experienced a month before, was amazing! This special after hours event was full of short lines and yummy food and the Boo to You Parade was a highlight! The Not So Spooky Spectacular fireworks show was very fun and the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular show was also a huge hit. If you are traveling during dates where this event is taking place, I highly recommend making this a part of your itinerary.

On October 31st we also made our way to the Boardwalk to see the Halloween festivities! I am so glad we included this in our plans! Sometimes visiting resorts at Disney World can be just as much fun as visiting the parks. There were some fantastic street performers and fun activities set up on the Village Green. We loved hanging out here and the kiddos enjoyed trick r’ treating and joining in on the activities. Having dinner at Trattoria Al Forno was a huge bonus!

Starting on November 1st, decorations were being put up across the parks at Disney World. However, not all of the full christmas experience starts during this time. We spent November 1st at Epcot and at that time the Holiday decorations were not yet up but we had a fantastic time as always. On November 2nd we spent the day at Animal Kingdom and again there was not much to see in terms of Holiday decorations or experiences. However, on November 3rd we made our way to Magic Kingdom and it was absolutely magical! The decorations were gorgeous and I loved the Holiday overlay that transformed Jungle Cruise into Jingle Cruise! I stood in the hub at one point and just took it all in because pictures don’t do it justice! The lights were twinkiling all around and the photo pass opportunities were fantastic. We took my favorite pictures of the entire trip on this night at Magic Kingdom!

At the end of our day at Hollywood Studios we took a mini van to Fort Wilderness and took a carraige ride around the camp sites! This was a very unique experience and a fun way to not only check out the camp sites but see all the fun decorations that campers had put up. We got to see both Halloween and Christmas decorations as many of them were still transitioning Holidays as well.

On November 4th we spent the day at Hollywood Studios! Gertie had her christmas hat on and Echo Lake was all dressed up with Christmas bulbs! I absolutely loved the vintage vibe of the Christmas Decorations at Hollywood Studios and would love to experience it again. On our departure day, November 5th, we made sure to head to the Wilderness Lodge and were honestly a little dissapointed that it had not yet adorned its Christmas attire but still enjoyed having lunch at Whispering Canyon Cafe and of course passing the ketchup. We also made sure to take the boat to Magic Kingdom and jump on the monorail to check out the resorts on the monorail loop. The ginerbread house at the Grand Floridian was almost completed and was a sight to see, but not much else was transformed at these resorts yet either.

In conclusion, if you are wanting the full Christmas experience at Disney World I recommend waiting until the official start of the Christmas season which this year was November 11th. By this time the parks and resorts will be fully decorated and Mickey’s Very Christmas Party has begun. However, if you are wanting to see a little of both Holidays and are ok with just getting a little glimpse of Christmas than going during this special time frame is a great choice to get to experience a little of both!

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Home > Game Guide > Game Updates

What’s New in v2.1?

Explore the latest solo tournament, powerful boosters, spooky halloween terrains, and more in star chef 2's newest update, star chef 2: new features and exciting updates.

Hey, Star Chef 2 fans! We’re thrilled to bring you a fresh batch of updates that will elevate your culinary adventure. Let’s dive into the new features and improvements that are sure to spice up your gameplay.

New Solo Tournament: Culinary Titan

Think you’ve got what it takes to be a Culinary Titan? Our brand-new solo tournament challenges you to conquer orders across Train, Cruise, Trader Post, and Restaurant. Rack up points, climb the leaderboard, and prove you’re the ultimate chef! Exclusive rewards await the top performers. 🏆🔥

New Boosters

With the exciting addition of Animals and the Trader Post, we’ve introduced two powerful boosters to enhance your gameplay:

• Fortune Trade Activate the  Fortune Trade booster to make your academy tools twice as effective in increasing the chances of obtaining trader items. It’s as if you’re using two sets of academy tools at once! This booster can be crafted in the Cooking Lab, providing you with a valuable edge in your trading ventures. 💼🔧
• Farm Frenzy Boost your farm’s productivity with the  Farm Frenzy booster. When activated during events, farm production is doubled, allowing you to collect two units of products from Animal Farms and Windmills. 🌾🐄

Spook-tacular Terrain

Spooky season is here, and it’s taking over the  Star Chef 2 world! Explore the hauntingly beautiful Halloween-themed terrain and set the perfect festive mood in your terrain. Immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit with this limited-time experience! 🎃👻

Kekoa’s Ghostly Adventures

Kekoa is putting on his big boy pants to take on the most daring and frightening adventure of all – yes, he’s going trick-or-treating in the cemetery of all places. Do you dare to join him? Come on, let’s give it in for the daredevil and join him – just make sure you are always three feet behind him. 👦🎒🦇

Don’t miss the exclusive decors that show off your whimsical side. Add a touch of magic with the  Witch’s-purr , a feline friend with supernatural charm 🐱✨, and brew up some mystery with the  Mystical Pot , a cauldron bubbling with enchantments that will leave your customers spellbound. 🧙‍♀️🧪

Food Cart: Space Travel

Ready for an out-of-this-world adventure? The  Space Travel Food Cart event brings futuristic skins and dazzling new themes for your food cart. Channel your inner astronaut as you race through the stars and serve up cosmic delights. 🚀🌌✨

Get ready to dive into these new features and enhancements in  Star Chef 2 . Your culinary journey is about to get even more exciting. Happy Cooking, Chefs! 👩‍🍳👨‍🍳🍳

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