As the
foliage changes colors and the temperatures drop, Halloween enthusiasts will
begin planning their spooky season adventures. Whether you're a history buff,
paranormal fan, or simply looking for a thrilling getaway, many lesser-known
destinations in the US come alive with eerie charm during October. I've
handpicked a short list of eerie destinations to put on your radar for the
upcoming Spooky Season:
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania:
Cliffhanging Civil War Fun
Gettysburg
is a famous town home to the Gettysburg National Military Park, the site of one
of the most famous battles of the American Civil War. Gettysburg is considered
by some to be one of the most haunted places in America because the park is
said to be haunted by the ghosts of soldiers who died in the battle. As such,
this destination is a perfect fit for those who love history and horror.
Recommended activities include Gettysburg Battlefield ghost tours, haunted
Gettysburg walking tours, and Farnsworth House Inn candlelight ghost stories.
If you're lucky, you'll be one of the visitors who have reportedly observed
apparitions of Civil War soldiers on the battlefield. A visit to Gettysburg
will supply you with supernatural experiences you'll never forget.
Louisville, Kentucky: The Place To
Party For Halloween
Louisville
is home to the world’s largest Halloween party. Those who love to celebrate and
be scary will feel right at home in this destination. One of the major
highlights of this destination’s Halloween festivities is the Jack O'Lantern
Spectacular at Iroquois Park. The park features thousands of uniquely carved
pumpkins. Additional recommended activities are tours at the Waverly Hills
Sanatorium, the Louisville Halloween Parade, and the Immersive Horror Escape
game. Louisville is the place to be if you want to go all out and have a
haunted Halloween experience.
St. Helens, Oregon: The Perfect Place
For Halloween Movie Buffs
If you
love a good Halloween movie, St. Helens is a sight to see. Each Spooky Season,
the town transforms into the fictional town of Halloweentown, inspired by the
Disney Channel movie series of the same name. St. Helens is also the location
where the first Halloweentown movie was filmed. While visiting, you may even
see stars from the movie enjoying the festivities. Activities you don't want to
miss during your visit to St. Helens include The Spirit of Halloweentown
Festival, The Haunted Hotel, and the giant pumpkin lighting ceremony.
Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo Credit: Louisville Tourism)
Estes Park, Colorado: The Haunted
Haven For Book Lovers
Estes
Park is the perfect scene for those who prefer a book over a screen. The town
is famous for inspiring Stephen King's book, "The Shining," The
Stanley Hotel is located in Estes Park, and visitors can bring the book to life
with a visit. Activities in Estes Park must include The Stanley Hotel's night
ghost tour, The Stanley Hotel's Shining Ball, and elk and wildlife watching in
Rocky Mountain National Park. If you want an experience that you can brag to
your friends back home, book a stay in room 217 at the Stanley Hotel, as this
is allegedly the room that inspired The Shining.
Anoka, Minnesota: The Historic City
Where It All Began
Anoka
is a self-proclaimed city as the "Halloween Capital of the World," as
it is believed to be the first city in the United States to officially
celebrate Halloween. This destination has celebrated Halloween for over 100
years since 1920, with parades, contests, and spooky events. Recommended
activities include The Grande Day Parade, House decorating contests, pumpkin
carving competitions, and the Gruesome Twosome pickleball tournament. A visit
to Anoka will also contribute to a greater cause as many of the proceeds from
their events go back to the community and schools.
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. (Photo Credit: Destination Gettysburg)
Halloween
in the US is more than just visiting well-known cities. There are thrills that
can also be experienced in lesser-known destinations. Whether you're exploring
the eerie streets of Louisville, taking a ghost tour in Gettysburg, or enjoying
a haunted attraction in Estes Park, there's no shortage of spooky fun to be had
in these 5 destinations. From historical hauntings to modern-day festivities,
each location provides a unique blend of entertainment, history, and eerie
experiences, making them perfect for a Spooky Season/Halloween-themed getaway.
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