Do you miss the Halloween scare? Are you searching for the scariest Halloween cities in the US? Get ready for the best experience as more cities create frightful decorations and plan terrifying ghost tours to make that a reality.
Halloween remains one of the most popular occasions in the country. And all states have fun festivals and creative ways to make the scary month of October memorable. The good news is there are numerous haunted Halloween cities you can visit.
Check out the list below for the best places to visit on Halloween. These cities host incredible Halloween events and festivities that suit the whole family. But even as you do that, ensure that you have the best flight deals to these cities- use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.
Spookiest Halloween Cities to Visit in the US
1. Salem, Massachusetts
Address: 19 Washington Sq., Salem, MA 01970
Salem tops our list. It is among the best places to be during Halloween, especially since the celebrations here last an entire month. Plus, it’s a bonus that the whole area is full of spooky historical sites.
It all started in 1692 when the Salem witch trials took place. At that time, almost 200 people were accused of practicing witchcraft. Out of them, 19 were burnt alive due to the fear and hysteria that led to the trials.
Today, Salem attracts visitors who want to experience haunted places, witchcraft, and magic. Luckily, you can tour the Salem Witch Museum for a better look into this dreadful period.
When visiting, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. These include Burying Point Cemetery, The Witch House, Proctor’s Ledge, and Howard Street Cemetery.
Also, check out some of the haunted hotels to stay in when touring Salem, Massachusetts.
Salem Inn
Reports of paranormal activities have occurred at Salem inn for decades. Many believe the hotel is haunted, especially room 17.
Hawthorne Hotel
The Hawthorn Hotel has been part of Salem since 1925, and many famous people have stayed in this magnificent place. There’s been reports of ghost sightings and other spooky occurrences. Some say ghosts of sailors still enjoy staying at the Hawthorne Hotel.
See Related: Fun & Best Things To Do in Salem, Massachusetts
2. New Orleans, Louisiana
Another Halloween gem is New Orleans in Louisiana. This magical city ranks high among the best Halloween places to visit and have fun.
New Orleans was founded in 1718 and has since had a checkered history. Slavery was a big part of this area, leading to bloody revolts and battles that left countless dead. Also, there was the death and mayhem brought on by piracy under the leadership of Jean Lafitte.
As such, the city remains one of the most famous for bloodshed and carnage in the US. Consequently, this has led to New Orleans falling under the category of scary towns for Halloween. Voodoo is widely practiced across the haunted city and adds to Halloween’s magic and appeal.
When thinking of where to travel for your Halloween night, consider a tour of New Orleans. The best places to stay during your visit include:
Lafitte Guest House
The young daughter of the original owners of Lafitte Guest House still haunts this establishment. Guests have experienced her moving things around. History shows that she fell ill and passed away at a young age.
Bourbon Hotel
Another great place to stay when visiting one of the spookiest cities is the Bourbon Hotel. At one time, the hotel hosted many grand events in the second-floor ballroom. Today, it’s said one lone dancer inhabits this area and continues to enjoy the music.
3. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee. Recently, it’s risen to one of the best cities to celebrate Halloween. And lots of haunted houses and spooky activities take place here in October.
Start your visit in the town of Dread Hollow, that’s said to be cursed. The masterminds of the Ruby Falls Haunted Cavern created this place that comes alive in October. Here, you can enjoy many horrifying activities and an intense haunt meant to transport you to your worst nightmare.
Next, attend the Monster Dash that takes place in October. This race consists of 1 mile, 5K, 10k, 13.1, and 26.2, so get your running shoes ready. This is a fun activity for all ages, and you can choose which distance to cover.
Fortunately, part of the registration fee goes to a worthy cause. And if you want to maintain the Halloween spirit while Chattanooga, you can stay in one of these scariest hotels:
Read House Hotel
Inside room 311 at the Read House Hotel, there’s a ghost who won’t leave. Her name is Analeise Netherly. Legend has it that Analiese was decapitated in the bathroom by a jealous partner. Ever since, she has haunted the room, continually tormenting men who stay there.
The Dwell Hotel
This is another excellent place to stay when touring Chattanooga, TN. Though the hotel isn’t haunted, there are so many great places to get a scary experience in this city from here. Book The Dwell Hotel.
See Related: Best Places for Bachelorette Party Around the World
4. St Helens, Oregon
October is one of the best times to visit St. Helens in Oregon. This lovely city comes alive with numerous Halloween celebrations and a complete transformation of the Riverfront District.
St. Helen’s has hosted two great movies, which inspired its transformation into one of the top Halloween sites. “Twilight,” the famous vampire movie, and “Halloweentown” by Disney were filmed here. Since then, St. Helens has hosted thousands of visitors and is known as one of the best places to celebrate Halloween.
One of the most popular events in St. Helen is the Spirit of Halloweentown. People get to light two giant pumpkins that mark the start of celebrations across the city. The event ends at the end of the month with a children’s parade where everyone gets to play dress-up at one of the best costume contests.
If you are visiting St. Helen during this Halloween season, you can find excellent accommodation in one of these hotels:
OYO Hotel St Helens OR
Get comfortable accommodation at the OYO Hotel in St. Helens when attending the Spirit of Halloweentown. The rooms have free WIFI access, a microwave, a small fridge, and cable TV.
Best Western Oak Meadows Inn
Stay at the Best Western Oak Meadows Inn, which offers a wide selection of rooms. There’s an indoor pool and hot tub available for guests.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Seaside, Oregon
5. Dallas, Texas
As you start your tour, check out the numerous haunted houses that dot the landscape. The Cutting Edge Haunted House is one truly horrific place in Fort Worth. An abandoned meat packing plant that will have you jumping at every corner.
You can also visit the Reindeer Manor, the longest-running haunted house in all of Texas. James Sharp built this manor in 1920 and lost his mind after the stock market crash. Sharp went on a murderous tirade, poisoning himself and his wife.
Dallas hosts grand Halloween celebrations and events like the Dallas Zombie Crawl and Dia De Los Muertos Celebration. It also holds a Halloween Spooktacular family concert each year.
During your visit, you can stay at:
Adolphus Hotel
Stay at the Adolphus Hotel at your own risk. It’s said that numerous ghosts reside in this hotel, including that of a jilted bride. Legends have it that she hung herself soon after her partner left her at the altar.
Renaissance Dallas Hotel
Among the numerous ghosts’ stories from Dallas is one of a peculiar man. He jumped from the rooftop of the Renaissance Dallas Hotel to his death. Since then, his ghost continues to haunt the hotel and has been spotted by guests and staff.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas
6. Estes Park, Colorado
Spookiness awakens in Estes Park during October. This has been happening since 1982 and is a much-loved time by locals. Visitors from far and wide flock to Estes Park while visiting many great Halloween destinations.
Estes Park hosts the Shinning Ball at the Stanley Hotel. In the book’ The Shinning,’ many people identify the Stanley Hotel as the inspiration behind the Overlook Hotel.
The Shinning Ball takes place on October 23. And you get to enjoy a pre-party jazz event on the 22nd.
On October 29, people in Estes Park attend the Historic Stanley Day Tour. This is a day of Halloween celebrations that outline the history and magnificence of the Stanley Hotel. The famed writer Stephen King once stayed in the hotel while writing ‘The Shinning.’
Top places to stay when visiting Estes Park in Colorado include:
The Stanley Hotel
It’s pretty evident why Stephen King loved the Stanley Hotel and included it in his famous novel ‘The Shinning.’ This 142-room hotel is said to be home to ghosts, and folks have reported witnessing supernatural occurrences.
The Oxford Hotel
Stay at the Oxford Hotel if you want to encounter ghosts and spirits in the rooms and hallways. This 125-year-old hotel is shared in many ghost stories by Estes Park residents.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Eugene, Oregon
7. Independence, Kansas
Address: 410 N Penn Ave, Independence, KS 67301
In 1919, Neewollah, Halloween spelled backward, began in Independence, Kansas. This was an effort by the local authorities to replace awful Halloween pranks with positive activities for the youth.
The event has since evolved and now consists of a 9-day celebration. So, as you mark cities to visit on Halloween, add Independence in Kansas.
While there, you can attend three spectacular parades, carnivals, a Great Pumpkin Contest, a chili cook-off, costume contests, and many other fun Halloween events. All of these will lead to the Neewollah Grand Parade celebrated on the last week of October.
There are many spooky places to stay in Independence, including:
The Apple Tree Inn
Many people consider the Apple Tree Inn a spooky place to stay while visiting Independence. It offers accommodation, and all rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV.
Kansas Inn
Stay at the Kansas Inn as you get ready to experience the Neewollah Grand Parade. This inn has air-conditioned rooms and a 24-hour front desk.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Wichita, Kansas
8. Savannah, Georgia
Address: 329 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401
Head to Savannah, Georgia, home to some horrific haunted houses. This is among the best Halloween cities to tour, where spirits of the dead roam the streets.
As you check out the Andrew Low House, prepare for a haunted journey. Spirits and ghosts continue to inhabit the Andrew Low House, where the staff has reported many paranormal occurrences. After that, you can attend the Vampire Ball, where creatures of the night rise to take over Savannah.
Another spooky place to visit in this city is The Gribble House. This is where axe murderers killed three people in 1909, causing citywide fear. It’s said their ghost still haunts this space, which is now a garage.
And as you celebrate Halloween in Savannah, these hotels will make your stay even more thrilling:
The Marshall House
You might encounter missing limbs on the first floor of The Marshall House. This is because before this became an inn, it was a hospital for treating wounded soldiers during the Civil War.
The 17hundred90 Inn and Restaurant
This is the oldest hotel in all of Savannah, Georgia. It’s said to be a spooky place that still has ghosts from the past haunting it.
9. Forks, Washington
Address: Hoh Valley Rd, Forks, WA
It rains almost all the time, making Forks, Washington, one of the best Halloween destinations. The skies start to turn grey, and the fog rolls in, creating a perfect spooky setting. Creatures of the night come out to torment residents and guests who are out on such nights.
Visitors flock to Forks to experience the fantastic setting for the famous Twilight movie. Each year the local Chamber of Commerce organizes a Twilight Tour. Visitors can enjoy retracing the famous vampires’ steps and engaging in hiking activities.
And while here, these spooky hotels will make your nights even scarier:
Far West Motel
Suppose you want to spend time away from the spooky book to stay at the Far West Motel. You’ll still be in Forks, and you might perhaps encounter a werewolf trying to enter your room.
Town Motel
The Town Motel is very scary, with spooky cabins that guests can book during Halloween. The first floor tilts, and the whole demeanor of the place looks dreary.
See Related: Best Spring Break Destinations for Families
10. Coupeville, Washington
Address: 1280 Engle Rd Ste B, Coupeville, WA 98239
Witches take over Coupeville, Washington, in October. This witchy town was the set of the 1998 movie Practical Magic.
Coupeville has the perfect coastal setting for a fantastic and spooky Halloween. It comes alive as many scream-filled activities take place for the entire month. Spend the weekends at the Fort Casey State Park, where ghosts roam free.
Find accommodation and enjoy a stay in this part of Washington at:
Captain Whidbey Inn
The Captain Whidbey Inn offers comfortable accommodation to visitors touring Coupeville. However, be aware of the apparition of an older woman who wanders the hallways. But since the spookiness is what you seek, you’ll undoubtedly love the place.
Manresa Castle Hotel
Find comfortable rooms when you check into the Manresa Castle Hotel in Coupeville, WA. This hotel is in an old castle, and there have been reports of spirits inhabiting some rooms. As such, you might want to sleep with one eye wide open.
11. New York City, New York
New York City is one of the US’s best places to celebrate Halloween. And for a good reason. The place offers Halloween activities and festivities for everyone. For starters, check out the creepy tombs tours and spooky family-friendly events.
Imagine an entire city full of Halloween celebrations and frightful decorations. All five boroughs participate in endless fun that culminates with the Village Halloween Parade. This great event takes place on October 31 and has thousands of participants each year.
During your visit to New York City, you can stay in haunted places:
The Sagamore Resort
The Sagamore Resort offers luxury accommodation and is built on a 70-acre Island. Over the years, numerous reports of paranormal activities and ghost sightings by staff and guests have been reported.
The Algonquin Hotel
Stay at the Algonquin Hotel, that’s been a part of the city since the early 1900s. This hotel has hosted many famous people whose spirits are believed to roam the hallways still.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Seattle, Washington
12. Long Beach, California
Are you planning to visit Long Beach, California, this October? Be ready to take part in some fantastic Halloween festivities. If you’ve been looking for a new Halloween experience, this is where to get it.
One fun activity that brings the whole family much joy is staying aboard the Queen Mary. This vessel comes alive in October, with numerous Halloween events taking place. Things can get scary and quite loud, but the haunted tours are worth the visit.
Add Long Beach to the list as you plan your trip to different Halloween towns. And apart from the Queen Mary, you can also stay at:
The Great Wolf Lodge
The lodge uses Halloween decorations every October to fit into the spooky spirit. There are also lots of fun Halloween activities for the entire family.
13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Address: 6201 Kingsessing Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19142
Philadelphia has some of the scariest haunted houses in Pennsylvania. This city also has spooky decorations, making it a top destination for folks touring Halloween cities.
At night, enjoy the numerous ghost tours that take place in October. Guides take you through the scariest and most haunted parts of the city. It’s common to hear screams from everywhere as people encounter paranormal activities.
When planning your tour of Philadelphia, you can book accommodation at:
Aaron Burr House
Aaron Burr was the original owner of the Aaron Burr House. It’s said that his ghost still haunts the hotel and likes to torment the guests by tagging on their sleeves.
Wedgewood Inn B&B
Stay at the historical Wedgewood Inn in New Hope, home to numerous ghosts. There’s a rumor that the building has a secret staircase and spooky basement tunnel.
See Related: Best Winter Destinations in Washington State
14. Celebrate Halloween in Orlando, Florida
Some places celebrate only one month of Halloween, but not Orlando, Florida. This is one of the best Halloween cities for the simple fact that celebrations last for two months.
Orlando is full of lots of fun Halloween celebrations for kids and adults. There are lots of tricks and treat, plus scary tricks that leave you screaming for help. The festivities start early and pick up momentum in October, the scariest month.
Book to stay at spooky places when in Florida. These include:
La Concha Hotel
La Concha is one of the most historic hotels in Florida. It was built in 1926. There’s a rumor that almost 13 people have jumped off the roof of this hotel.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa
Stay at the Casa Monica when touring great Halloween cities like Orlando. This resort and spa are haunted by multiple ghosts enjoying the ballroom’s waltz music.
15. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
One of the greatest times to visit Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is during the frightful month of October. This is the place to be for epic ghost tours, including visiting haunted houses.
Numerous activities take place in Gettysburg, suitable for the whole family. If lucky, you might encounter the innumerable Civil War ghosts that haunt this area.
At the end of the frightful month, Gettysburg hosts an annual parade where everyone dresses up in scary costumes. These costume parties can be interesting, and you shouldn’t miss them.
Even better news, there are haunted hotels that you can book to stay in Gettysburg. Check out places like:
Farnsworth House Inn
Doors tend to swing violently open at the Farnsworth House Inn. There have also been sightings of a little boy playing as guests went about their business.
The Tillie Pierce House Inn
Stay at the Tillie Pierce House Inn, and you might encounter a Civil War ghost. This is because the inn is built near a cemetery, and spirits tend to wander the area.
See Related: Key West Day Trip: The Florida Keys in a Day
16. San Francisco, California
Address: San Francisco, 94133, California
Last on the list of top Halloween cities to visit is San Francisco, California. There are numerous activities and attractions in San Francisco that will keep your Halloween spirit alive.
Imagine touring the frightful and famous Alcatraz prison during the scariest month of the year. These tours take place in the evening and at night.
You can also take part in the haunted walking tours of the city. This is a chance to view this city’s darker side and hear some screams.
Visitors can find frightful accommodation at:
Hotel Union Square
Room 207 is famous at the Hotel Union Square. It’s said that the ghost of a woman inhabits this room. But, she isn’t a tormentor but just seems to roam around.
Queen Ann Hotel
Stay at the Queen Ann Hotel at your peril since this is among the most haunted places in San Francisco. The hotel was once a girl’s boarding school, and the ghost of the old headmistress still haunts it, as legends have it.
FAQ
Which city celebrates Halloween the most?
New York City is the place to be for the best Halloween celebrations. All five boroughs participate in epic Halloween festivities culminating in a big parade on the 31st.
What is the number 1 haunted house in the US?
Netherworld Haunted House is the number one haunted house in the US. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually who find Georgia a Spooktacular place.
What state has the scariest haunted houses?
Texas has the most significant number of haunted houses in the US. There are over ten scary and haunted houses that you can tour when in this state.
Related Resources
- How to Get Discount Disney Tickets in Orlando, Florida
- Best Travel Agent Tools to Use
- Best Day Trips From Tampa, Florida
Lock In Your Travel Now
Find Cheap Flights
Use Skyscanner to find flight deals. As my personal favorite flight search engine, Skyscanner scours websites and airlines across the globe, leaving no stone unturned to help you find the best deal possible. And if you really want to take your savings to new heights, pair Skyscanner with Going (Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights). With access to exclusive mistake fares delivered straight to your inbox, you'll be packing your bags and jetting off on your next adventure before you know it.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a low cost way to ensure your travel plans go smooth no matter what's thrown at it. Cover yourself against illness, injury and theft, and protect the arrangements you've made with our flexible travel cancellation insurance. My favorite options for travel insurance are:
Book Your Accommodation
In order to capture the widest selection of properties and the best price, use Booking.com as they have the cheapest rates for guesthouses, hotels, luxury condos, B&Bs and so much more.
Want More Destination Ideas Direct to Your Inbox?
Be sure to join the ViaTravelers Newsletter for expert tips, tricks and inspiration for your next travel journey!
Discover the Best Travel Tools
Be sure to visit our page on our favorite travel resources to learn how you too can visit over 10 countries in year.