Halloween is one of the most anticipated holidays in the United States, offering a unique blend of spooky fun and festive excitement. From haunted houses and ghost tours to costume parties and pumpkin festivals, there are numerous destinations across the country that go all out for Halloween. Here’s a detailed guide to the best places to travel for Halloween in the USA, each offering a unique and thrilling experience.
1. Salem, Massachusetts
Why Visit:
Known as the “Witch City,” Salem is synonymous with Halloween due to its infamous witch trials of 1692. The entire town transforms into a Halloween haven, offering a month-long celebration called Haunted Happenings.
Highlights:
- Witch Museums and Tours: Visit the Salem Witch Museum, the Witch Dungeon Museum, and take part in ghost tours.
- Haunted Houses: Explore the terrifying haunted houses and attractions that bring the history of Salem to life.
- Costume Balls and Parades: Participate in the Grand Parade, costume balls, and street fairs.
2. New Orleans, Louisiana
Why Visit:
New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife and rich history, takes Halloween to the next level with its mix of spooky and celebratory events. The city’s deep-rooted voodoo culture and haunted history make it a prime Halloween destination.
Highlights:
- Voodoo Music + Arts Experience: A major music festival held over Halloween weekend featuring top artists.
- French Quarter Ghost Tours: Discover the haunted history of the French Quarter with a guided ghost tour.
- Krewe of Boo Parade: New Orleans’ official Halloween parade featuring elaborate floats and costumed revelers.
3. Sleepy Hollow, New York
Why Visit:
Inspired by Washington Irving’s classic tale, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” this town embraces its spooky heritage with a variety of Halloween activities.
Highlights:
- Horseman’s Hollow: A haunted attraction that brings the Headless Horseman legend to life.
- Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze: A mesmerizing display of over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins.
- Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Tours: Guided tours through the famous cemetery where Washington Irving is buried.
4. Los Angeles, California
Why Visit:
Los Angeles offers a diverse range of Halloween events, from family-friendly festivals to intense haunted attractions. The city’s entertainment industry ensures top-notch productions and experiences.
Highlights:
- Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights: An annual event featuring haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows based on popular horror films.
- West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval: One of the largest Halloween street parties in the world.
- Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor: A haunted attraction aboard the historic Queen Mary ship.
5. Savannah, Georgia
Why Visit:
Known as one of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah offers a mix of ghostly history and Southern charm, making it an ideal Halloween destination.
Highlights:
- Ghost Tours: Explore the haunted history of Savannah with walking, trolley, or even hearse tours.
- Oktoberfest on the River: Enjoy a mix of Halloween and Oktoberfest celebrations along the Savannah River.
- Wormsloe Historic Site: Experience Halloween events at this picturesque and haunted historic site.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
Why Visit:
Las Vegas knows how to throw a party, and Halloween is no exception. The city offers a range of adult-themed events, haunted attractions, and costume parties.
Highlights:
- Fright Dome at Circus Circus: A massive haunted house attraction featuring multiple scare zones and haunted houses.
- Halloween at Fremont Street Experience: Enjoy live entertainment, costume contests, and themed events in downtown Las Vegas.
- Rock of Horror: A Halloween bash featuring live rock bands, DJs, and costume contests.
7. Anoka, Minnesota
Why Visit:
Known as the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka has been celebrating Halloween since the 1920s with a range of family-friendly events.
Highlights:
- Grand Day Parade: A large parade featuring floats, bands, and costumed participants.
- Pumpkin Weigh-Off: A competition to see who has grown the largest pumpkin.
- House Decorating Contest: Residents compete to create the spookiest Halloween-themed house decorations.
8. St. Helens, Oregon
Why Visit:
St. Helens transforms into “Halloweentown” each October, inspired by the Disney movie filmed there. The entire town participates in the festivities.
Highlights:
- Spirit of Halloweentown Festival: A month-long celebration with haunted houses, pumpkin carving, and costume contests.
- Paranormal Tours: Guided tours exploring the haunted history of St. Helens.
- Scarecrows: Enjoy a stroll through the town’s many creatively designed scarecrows.
9. Key West, Florida
Why Visit:
Key West offers a unique Halloween experience with its tropical setting and lively nightlife. The town’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for Halloween fun.
Highlights:
- Fantasy Fest: A 10-day festival featuring elaborate costumes, parades, and parties.
- Ghost Tours: Discover the haunted history of Key West with walking or trolley tours.
- Zombie Bike Ride: A fun and quirky event where participants dress as zombies and ride through the town.
10. Orlando, Florida
Why Visit:
Orlando is home to some of the best theme parks in the world, many of which offer special Halloween events. It’s an ideal destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Highlights:
- Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: A family-friendly event at Walt Disney World featuring trick-or-treating, parades, and fireworks.
- Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights: An intense haunted house and scare zone experience at Universal Studios.
- SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular: A daytime event with trick-or-treating, themed shows, and sea creature encounters.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly Halloween adventure or a spine-chilling haunted experience, the USA offers a wide range of destinations to celebrate this spooky holiday. From the historic streets of Salem to the lively parades of New Orleans, each of these locations provides a unique and unforgettable Halloween experience. Plan your visit to one of these top destinations and immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Halloween.
