The Best Places in the U.S. to Visit During Halloween Season
Halloween or All Hallows’ Eve is a time of spooky celebrations, ghostly encounters, and festive fun. Across the United States, there are countless destinations where the Halloween spirit comes to life in unique and thrilling ways. Whether you’re seeking haunted attractions, pumpkin patches, or costume contests, these destinations offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best places in the U.S. to visit during the Halloween season.
1. Salem, Massachusetts: The Witch City
Salem is synonymous with Halloween. Known for the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692, the city embraces its eerie history with a month-long celebration known as Haunted Happenings. The streets are alive with parades, ghost tours, and re-enactments of the witch trials. Visit the Salem Witch Museum for an immersive look into the town’s dark past, or take part in the Salem Haunted Magic Show for a spellbinding experience.
- Accommodations: Stay at the Hawthorne Hotel, a historic and reputedly haunted hotel in the heart of Salem.
- Dining: Dine at Turner’s Seafood for fresh, local seafood in a historic setting.
- Transportation: Salem is easily accessible by car or a short train ride from Boston.
2. Sleepy Hollow, New York: The Legend Lives On
Sleepy Hollow is the setting of Washington Irving’s classic tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This charming town goes all out for Halloween, with events like the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, where thousands of hand-carved pumpkins illuminate the night, and the Horseman’s Hollow, a terrifying haunted attraction that brings the legend to life.
- Accommodations: Stay at the Castle Hotel & Spa in nearby Tarrytown, offering luxurious rooms and stunning views.
- Dining: Enjoy a meal at The Hudson Anchor for riverside dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- Transportation: Just a 30-minute train ride from New York City’s Grand Central Terminal, Sleepy Hollow is easily accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana: A Ghostly Good Time
New Orleans is a city steeped in mysticism and history, making it the perfect Halloween destination. The Voodoo Music + Arts Experience kicks off the season with music, art, and Halloween-themed attractions. Don’t miss the Cemetery Tours, where you can explore the famous above-ground tombs and hear tales of the city’s ghostly residents. The French Quarter comes alive with costume contests, haunted bars, and ghost tours.
- Accommodations: Stay at the Hotel Monteleone, a grand and haunted hotel in the French Quarter.
- Dining: Indulge in Creole cuisine at Antoine’s Restaurant, one of the oldest and most iconic establishments in the city.
- Transportation: New Orleans is easily navigable by foot, streetcar, or Uber. The French Quarter is the epicenter of Halloween activity.
4. Anoka, Minnesota: The Halloween Capital of the World
Anoka, Minnesota, claims to be the Halloween Capital of the World, and with good reason. The town has been celebrating Halloween since 1920 with parades, costume contests, and house decorating competitions. The Anoka Halloween Parade is the longest-running parade in the country, featuring floats, bands, and plenty of spooky surprises. For family fun, visit the Pumpkin Bowl, a football game with a Halloween twist.
- Accommodations: Stay at the Regency Inn & Suites in Anoka for a comfortable and convenient experience.
- Dining: Enjoy a cozy meal at Serum’s Good Time Emporium, a local favorite known for its wings and historic charm.
- Transportation: Anoka is a short drive from Minneapolis, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation.
5. Savannah, Georgia: Ghosts in the Garden
Savannah’s Southern charm takes a spooky turn during Halloween. Known as one of the most haunted cities in the U.S., Savannah offers ghost tours that take you through its historic squares, cemeteries, and haunted houses. The Ghosts & Gravestones Tour is a must-do, combining history with the supernatural. For a more laid-back experience, visit the Savannah Botanical Gardens for a family-friendly Halloween event with pumpkin patches and hayrides.
- Accommodations: Stay at the Marshall House, a historic and haunted hotel in the heart of Savannah.
- Dining: Dine at The Olde Pink House, offering Southern cuisine in a historic and haunted setting.
- Transportation: Savannah is a walkable city, with most attractions within a short distance of each other. Trolley tours are also a great way to see the sights.
6. Estes Park, Colorado: The Shining Experience
Estes Park is home to the famous Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. During Halloween, the hotel hosts ghost tours, horror film screenings, and a Shining Ball where guests can dance the night away in their best costumes. The town itself is surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, offering plenty of opportunities for autumn hikes and scenic drives.
- Accommodations: Stay at the Stanley Hotel for a truly immersive experience.
- Dining: Enjoy a meal at the Cascades Restaurant located within the Stanley Hotel, known for its local fare and historic ambiance.
- Transportation: Estes Park is a two-hour drive from Denver, making it accessible by car. Shuttle services are available for those staying at the Stanley Hotel.
Plan Your Halloween Adventure
With so many spooky and fun destinations across the U.S., there’s no better time to plan a Halloween adventure. Whether you’re looking for haunted history, family-friendly fun, or a mix of both, these destinations offer a unique way to celebrate the season. Pack your costume, grab your pumpkin spice latte, and get ready for a Halloween you won’t forget!
Ready to explore the haunted streets of Salem or dance the night away at the Stanley Hotel’s Shining Ball? Start planning your Halloween getaway today! Book your accommodations early, plan your travel route, and prepare for a hauntingly good time. Don’t miss out on the chance to make this Halloween your most memorable one yet!
