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Halloween is a season ripe for ghostly adventures, chilling stories, and spine-tingling fun. But why limit the excitement to your local haunted house or trick-or-treat route?
Whether your next destination is a short drive, a road trip or a plane ride away, explore some of the best Halloween towns and cities across America.
Must-Visit Halloween Towns for Festive Fun
The crème de la scream of Halloween travel deals and Halloween vacations for families in the U.S. features Sleepy Hollow, Salem, Anoka, New Orleans, and Philadelphia.
These destinations offer rich history that promises an unforgettable Halloween escapade on a budget.
Sleepy Hollow, NY
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Sleepy Hollow isn’t just the spooky setting of Washington Irving’s famed “Headless Horseman” tale — it’s a real Halloween town in New York. As October rolls in, it transforms into a ghoulish playground.
From vibrant costume parades and street fairs to haunted hayrides and the iconic Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, showcasing more than 7,000 brilliantly carved pumpkins, there’s a bewitching spell cast over every corner!
Planning a visit? Remember, October sees a surge of fellow ghost-hunters and Halloween enthusiasts. For cheap Halloween flights and a budget-friendly stay, consider accommodations in neighboring areas accessible by commuter rail.
Salem, MA
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Witch trials, mystic tales and cobblestone streets make Salem a top Halloween vacation for families looking to discover this Massachusetts town’s infamous witch trials. Today, half a million visitors are drawn to it each Halloween season, eager to embark on ghost tours and visit the witchcraft-rich cemeteries, haunted Witch House, and the Salem Witch Museum.
Thinking of joining a guided tour? A sprinkle of online detective work can help you find the best ghost tours, capturing Salem’s spirit without casting a spell on your wallet.
Anoka, MN
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Dubbed the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka, Minnesota has a longstanding tradition of October festivities. The town’s commitment to Halloween dates back to 1920 when it became, as legend suggests, the first U.S. city to hold a citywide Halloween celebration — aiming to keep children engaged in festive activities instead of mischievous pranks.
Each year, Anoka sparkles with events such as the history-rich Ghosts of Anoka Walking Tour, pumpkin carving contests and the enchanting Light Up the Night Parade.
If Anoka is on your Halloween radar and you’re flying in, remember to book Halloween flights well in advance. Mid-week flights might offer more savings compared to weekend ones, and exploring nearby airports could present more economical flight options.
New Orleans, LA
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The vibrant energy of New Orleans takes on a ghostly twist as Halloween approaches. Immerse yourself in the city’s shadowy history with a chilling visit to the Museum of Death or take a step back in time at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum.
For those looking for ghost tours, New Orleans offers the French Quarter Ghosts & Legends Tour for $30. This two-hour tour dives into tales of famous hauntings and explores the French Quarter’s most eerie locations.
To savor the experience without draining your wallet, consider a self-guided tour of haunted spots or enjoy the countless free events in the French Quarter.
Philadelphia, PA
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From its ancient cemeteries to haunted taverns, Philadelphia offers a mix of American history with a side of spooks. Plus, visiting in the fall means enjoying the city’s beautiful autumn foliage.
For the thrill-seekers, The Bates Motel Haunted Attraction stands out, taking guests into a spine-chilling world inspired by Hitchcock’s tales. Located in Glen Mills, it’s a must-visit for any horror fan.
While exploring budget-friendly Halloween activities in Philadelphia, consider that general admission to the Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary can be as affordable as $39 on select days. This event captures the true essence of Philly’s Halloween spirit, as the haunting history of this 200-year-old prison comes alive with spooky attractions.
Best Things to Do for Halloween
Traveling to famous Halloween towns or the best cities for Halloween might not be in the cards for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on the spooky fun. The magic of Halloween can be found right around the corner, perhaps even in your own neighborhood. Let’s dive into some local Halloween attractions near you.
Visit a Haunted House
Haunted houses are quintessential Halloween experiences. From DIY neighborhood scares to professional horror mazes, they offer a range of fear factors suitable for all ages. Who says you need to travel miles to get a good scare? You’ll be amazed at the creativity and passion locals pour into these setups, all aimed at giving you a good scream (and maybe a laugh or two afterward).
Take a Spooky Ghost Tour
Your town’s history might hold more mysteries than you think. Local legends, eerie occurrences and tales from yesteryears often form the backbone of community ghost tours. Even if you’ve walked those streets a thousand times, seeing them under the veil of night is an excellent opportunity to learn more about your local area while getting a gentle Halloween chill.
Find a Hayride
A classic autumn activity that never gets old, hayrides are a fantastic way to soak in the fall atmosphere. Local farms or community centers often host these rides, weaving through apple orchards, pumpkin patches and along golden cornfields. The gentle pace, combined with occasional stops for apple cider or ghost stories by the bonfire, makes it a delightful outing for families and friends.
Get Halloween-Ready with CubeSmart Self-Storage
It’s that time of year when CubeSmart storage units come alive with customers retrieving their most captivating costumes and spooktacular decorations. If you need extra space for your eerie essentials, look no further!
Explore our self-storage options to ensure your Halloween items are stored securely until the next haunting season.
