Need Last-Minute Halloween Plans? Here Are Some Spooktacular Trip Ideas!

If you’re feeling extra brave, why not take a trip to the Haunted Overload in Lee, New Hampshire? Known for its larger-than-life sets and eerie atmosphere, this outdoor haunt will take you deep into the woods, where every twist and turn will have you on edge. For a different take, try a horror hayride like the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, where Hollywood-level production values are guaranteed to send chills down your spine.

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A ghost tour can be a great pick for those who are looking for a fright. If you wait until the next day to check through your pictures, you may just run into something you didn’t know was there. And some ghost tours are kid-friendly, such as the French Quartour Kid-Friendly Ghost Hunt in New Orleans. It’s marketed for kids between 4 and 8 years old. You’ll get to search for lost pirates and ghosts using high-tech detectors and other equipment. Just make sure you stay hydrated and wear sturdy shoes in case you need to run, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures.

If you want something a little darker, check out the Salem Historical Tours in Massachusetts. These tours dive deep into the infamous Salem Witch Trials, offering a spine-chilling walk through the town’s most haunted spots. For history lovers and ghost hunters alike, you’ll enjoy being wrapped up in the mystical aura that only Salem can deliver on Halloween night.

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Winchester Mystery House, San Jose

Meanwhile, for those drawn to true crime, a visit to the location of H.H. Holmes Murder Castle in Chicago might send a shiver down your spine. Although the original site no longer stands, you can still visit locations associated with one of America’s most infamous serial killers. Take The Devil In The White City Bus Tour in Englewood, where the “Murder Castle” once stood.  You can also visit the nearby Museum of Science and Industry, which is built on the grounds of the 1893 World’s Fair that played a key role in his sinister plans.

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If you’re staying in a haunted hotel, you’re in for a real spooky treat. For example, once a prominent ocean liner, the RMS Queen Mary is now docked permanently in Long Beach, California. Guests have most consistently reported a hot spot in room B340, where one passenger passed on in the very late 1940s. Book their Haunted Encounters tour to learn more about the ship’s eerie past. They also host their infamous Dark Harbor Halloween event, with haunted mazes, interactive performances, and more.

Another that often makes the top of the most haunted hotels list is the Stanley Hotel in Colorado. It’s said to have inspired Stephen King’s novel, The Shining. Although you won’t find any creepy twin girls, they say that the spirits of Stanley’s first owner, Freelan Oscar Stanley, and his wife reportedly roam the halls. Room 217 is particularly famous, where guests have reported mysterious lights flickering and items being moved. The hotel also offers The Shining Tour (only $30!) for those curious to explore its haunted history firsthand.

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Visit a Famous Cemetery

You can tour a good cemetery at just about any time of year. Picnics and strolls in cemeteries used to be popular activities during the Victorian era. However, cemetery tours correlate with the spirit of Halloween. If you’re a celebrity enthusiast or a history buff, the Woodlawn Cemetery in New York is ripe with both. In October, you can also take an Illuminated Sculpture Walking Tour and see some familiar names. Many celebrities, including Duke Ellington, are buried there, and old-time feminist Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s ashes are interred there.

Some of the most beautiful and haunting cemeteries are those that are lined with trees and mausoleums, like the Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia. It’s home to former governors of the state. Even more famously, it’s home to six-year-old Gracie Watson and her life-sized statue. John Muir reportedly spent six nights there while still alive, saying that it was cheaper than a hotel. Check out Shannon Scott Tours & Events for their Halloween Bonaventure Cemetery After Dark: The Black Moon Tour. You’ll learn all about secret societies, rituals, and other mysteries associated with the cemetery. Plus, you’ll get some spooky, Halloween-themed baked goods.

FAQs:

Q: What should I pack for a Halloween trip?
A: Pack weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes (especially if you’re walking tours or festivals), and, of course, your Halloween costume. Don’t forget essentials like portable phone chargers, reusable water bottles, and travel-sized toiletries.

Q: Are there age restrictions for haunted houses or ghost tours?
A: Yes, many haunted attractions have age restrictions for safety reasons. Some are only for adults, while others offer family-friendly or kid-specific tours. Always check the event or tour website before booking to make sure it’s suitable for your group.

Q: How can I find Halloween events that are dog-friendly?
A: Many cities host pet-friendly Halloween parades or festivals. Check local event listings or pet-friendly websites like BringFido to find specific pet-inclusive Halloween events in the area. Be sure to pack a costume for your dog!

Q: How should I stay safe on Halloween?
A: Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas. If you’re attending events after dark, stay in well-lit areas, and make sure your phone is charged. For haunted attractions or ghost tours, always follow the safety guidelines provided by the event.

Q: How far in advance should I book tickets for popular Halloween events?
A: For major Halloween attractions like haunted houses, ghost tours, and festivals, it’s best to book tickets as early as possible, especially for weekends. Many events sell out quickly in October, so check event websites regularly for ticket release dates.

What other last-minute trip ideas to Halloween destinations can you think of? Tell us below!