With October just around the corner, the United States becomes a haven for spooky celebrations. From ghost tours to family-friendly pumpkin festivals, Halloween travel destinations across the country offer something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking historical haunts or modern-day thrills, these top U.S. destinations are sure to make your Halloween adventure a frightfully fun experience.
1. Salem, Massachusetts: The Witch Capital of Halloween
No Halloween destination is as iconic as Salem, Massachusetts. Infamous for the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, this town embraces its spooky history with gusto. As the self-proclaimed Halloween capital of the U.S., Salem offers an immersive experience into both history and the supernatural. October marks the town’s annual Haunted Happenings festival, a month-long celebration filled with haunted houses, ghost tours, and even witchcraft ceremonies. Delve deeper into Salem’s history at the Salem Witch Museum or join historical walking tours that unravel the town’s eerie past. For those seeking entertainment, there are costume parties, psychic readings, and a variety of horror movie screenings. Whether you’re fascinated by history or just love a good scare, Salem delivers a Halloween experience like no other.
2. Sleepy Hollow, New York: Where Legends Come to Life
The town of Sleepy Hollow, immortalized in Washington Irving’s classic tale of the Headless Horseman, is another top destination for Halloween enthusiasts. Located just 30 miles from New York City, Sleepy Hollow fully embraces its haunted lore every October. One of the most anticipated events is the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, a magnificent display featuring over 7,000 intricately carved pumpkins. Families can stroll through this illuminated spectacle and take in the artistry. For those seeking a spookier experience, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery offers evening tours where you can pay respects to Washington Irving and hear tales of local hauntings. With haunted hayrides, live performances, and seasonal markets, Sleepy Hollow captures the true spirit of Halloween.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana: A Voodoo-Inspired Halloween
Known for its mysterious history and ties to voodoo, New Orleans provides the perfect backdrop for a haunted Halloween adventure. The French Quarter’s narrow streets and historic buildings set the stage for countless ghost stories and paranormal activity, creating a suitably eerie atmosphere. The highlight of New Orleans’ Halloween festivities is the Krewe of Boo, the city’s official Halloween parade that features creative floats, costumes, and of course, candy. Visitors can also tour haunted locations like the infamous LaLaurie Mansion or participate in voodoo rituals for a uniquely New Orleans experience. For thrill-seekers, the Mortuary Haunted House —set in a former funeral home—is known as one of the scariest attractions in the country. With its haunted history and vibrant nightlife, New Orleans is a Halloween destination like no other.
4. Anoka, Minnesota: The Halloween Capital of the World
Anoka, Minnesota, proudly claims the title of the “Halloween Capital of the World,” a tradition dating back to the 1920s. This small Midwestern town offers one of the oldest Halloween parades in the U.S., and its annual festival is packed with family-friendly events that celebrate the spooky season. The highlight of Anoka’s celebration is the Grand Day Parade, where floats, costumes, and local bands come together for a festive show. The town also hosts scarecrow contests, pumpkin carving competitions, and a bonfire to cap off the celebrations. For kids, there are plenty of activities, including trick-or-treating and craft fairs. Anoka’s community-driven spirit makes it an ideal destination for those who love a traditional Halloween experience.
5. Savannah, Georgia: Southern Charm with a Haunting Twist
With its cobblestone streets, moss-covered trees, and rich history, Savannah, Georgia, is often regarded as one of the most haunted cities in America. For Halloween travelers interested in ghost stories and paranormal activity, Savannah offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can embark on ghost tours that take them through the historic district, or join haunted pub crawls where eerie tales are shared over drinks. For a more spine-tingling adventure, the Sorrel-Weed House —one of the city’s most haunted locations—offers nighttime tours that explore Savannah’s haunted history. The Candlelight Cemetery Tours are another highlight, where guests can wander through ancient cemeteries by lantern light, hearing tales of Savannah’s past residents. With its blend of spooky charm and Southern hospitality, Savannah is a must-visit destination for Halloween lovers.
6. Los Angeles, California: A Halloween Wonderland
Los Angeles may be known for its glamorous Hollywood scene, but come October, it transforms into a hub for Halloween activities that cater to thrill-seekers and families alike. One of the city’s most famous attractions is Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights, where terrifying haunted houses are designed to bring popular horror movies to life. For families looking for less intense thrills, the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride in Griffith Park offers a perfect mix of spooky fun for all ages. For party-goers, West Hollywood’s Halloween Carnaval is one of the largest street parties in the country, drawing tens of thousands of costumed revelers each year. If you’re looking for a cultural spin on the holiday, head to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, which hosts screenings and a vibrant Day of the Dead celebration that blends Halloween with Mexican traditions.
7. St. Helens, Oregon: The Halloween Town Festival
Fans of the Disney movie Halloweentown will instantly recognize the town of St. Helens, Oregon, which was the setting for the beloved film. Every year, St. Helens celebrates its connection to the film with a month-long Spirit of Halloweentown festival, turning the town into a real-life Halloween wonderland. The festival offers a range of activities, including pumpkin lighting ceremonies, costume contests, and ghost tours. The quaint town square becomes a hub of Halloween magic, drawing families and fans of the movie alike. For those looking to relive their favorite Halloweentown moments, St. Helens is the perfect place to visit during the spooky season.
8. Estes Park, Colorado: Haunted History and Scenic Beauty
For those who prefer their Halloween with a side of natural beauty, Estes Park, Colorado, offers a perfect blend of scenic landscapes and spooky fun. Home to the iconic Stanley Hotel —the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining —Estes Park is a must-visit destination for horror fans. The hotel offers a range of Halloween-themed activities, including ghost tours and spooky storytelling sessions. The surrounding Rocky Mountains add an extra layer of eeriness to the experience, especially during the town’s Halloween Masquerade Ball held at the hotel. For outdoor enthusiasts, Estes Park also offers fall hiking and wildlife viewing, making it an ideal spot for a Halloween getaway.
From the historic streets of Salem to the mystical allure of New Orleans, these Halloween destinations across the U.S. offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly festivities or heart-pounding scares, these towns and cities will provide an unforgettable Halloween experience. Pack your bags and get ready for a spooky adventure!
