This post was last updated on September 7, 2023.

Tired of the usual trick-or-treating with your kids, knocking every neighbor’s door to get the same stale candy every year? Then why not booking a fun — and scary! — Halloween getaway in family? There are plenty of cool and spooky destinations out there where you can unleash your best Halloween mood. And you’ll get a lot more than just candy for your trouble.

From the West Coast of the U.S. to the depths of Europe, here are eight cool places to visit this October for Halloween!

Trace the Headless Horseman’s Steps in Sleepy Hollow

If you’ve ever read Washington Irving’s short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” you know why this part of New York is definitely the place to be in Halloween. Located barely an hour away from New York City, the charming town of North Tarrytown (aka Sleepy Hollow) features plenty of locations depicted in the book, like the infamous Headless Horseman Bridge and, of course its impressive cemetery. As a bonus, you’ll also get to experience — and fall in love with — the magnificent foliage of upstate New York and the area’s breathtaking scenery.

Book a UFO Tour in Roswell, New Mexico

Are there intelligent life forms — other than humans, that is — roaming the vast, unknown universe? If you love everything about flying saucers and mysterious alien abductions, you’ll want to take a UFO Tour in Roswell, New Mexico. Based in the world-famous, alleged UFO crash — and alien autopsy — that many believe took place in 1947, this year-round locale features numerous tours that make for a very original and cool alternative to your traditional Halloween. While Roswell may be more famous for its UFO connections, it still embraces the spooky spirit of Halloween.

Visit Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania

Ok, it’s not really called Dracula’s castle, but to many people it’s the epitome of vampiric spookiness. Bran Castle is perched atop a rugged hill in Romania, and is often associated with Dracula due to its Gothic architecture and eerie ambiance. While it wasn’t the residence of Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula, the castle’s location in Transylvania and its resemblance to the fictional portrayal of Dracula’s castle in literature and film have cemented its connection to the vampire legend.

Today, it attracts tourists intrigued by the captivating blend of history and folklore, adding to its enduring reputation as “Dracula’s Castle.” Can you even imagine a better place to be at Halloween than the spooky yet beautiful lair of the lord of the vampires?

Learn About Witch Hunts in Salem

If you remember your American history, you’ll know about the unfortunate witch hunts in Salem, Massachusetts. Not surprisingly, there are many Halloween celebrations going on in this small New England town during this part of the year. Visitors can immerse themselves in spooky history with haunted tours, explore the Witch Trials Memorial, and attend eerie events like the Salem Witches’ Magic Circle and the Festival of the Dead.

The month-long Haunted Happenings festival offers parades, psychic fairs, and costume balls. Salem’s streets come alive with elaborate Halloween decorations, and the town’s witchy charm makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly enchanting Halloween experience.

Spend Día De Los Muertos in Mexico

In Mexican culture, the time around Halloween means a lot more than just dressing up in scary costumes. Go for the cultural experience in Mexico, particularly the city of Oaxaca, where natives celebrate Día de los Muertos (or Day of the Dead). This is a day when families honor the memory of their departed ancestors with parades, processions, and offerings on altars and cemeteries.

Visitors to Oaxaca can visit colorful cemeteries adorned with marigolds and candles to honor departed loved ones, witness vibrant parades, and attend workshops to create traditional sugar skulls and paper marigolds. The town’s markets showcase delicious pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and intricate sugar figurines. Children can enjoy face painting and storytelling, immersing in the rich cultural traditions that make Oaxaca a captivating destination for celebrating Dia de los Muertos. Despite the ghoulish name, Dia de los Muertos is truly is a joyful celebration of life and a great experience for anyone eager to learn about Mexican traditions and folklore.

Join the Krewe of Boo! in New Orleans

Throwing on your best Halloween costume and attending the biggest party in New Orleans is a must for any Halloween enthusiast. The Krewe of Boo! is a Halloween-themed parade and krewe (a Creole word for social organization) in New Orleans, Louisiana. Founded in 2007 as a fundraiser for Hurricane Katrina relief, the Krewe hosts an annual parade that takes place in the days leading up to Halloween.

The parade features elaborately decorated floats, costumed riders, and marching bands. In a nod to Mardi Gras, people on the parade floats throw Halloween-themed items into the crowd. The celebration has become a popular and family-friendly event in New Orleans, adding to the city’s rich tradition of vibrant and unique parades throughout the year.

Take in the Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular in Louisville

The annual Jack-‘O-Lantern Spectacular in Louisville, Kentucky is perfect for all-you candle-throwing fans out there. This beautiful event is coming up soon and will be the perfect way to spend your weekend. It’s a family-friendly festival that includes pumpkin carving, face painting, hayrides around the farm, and more. There are even prizes for first place in each category of pumpkin carving. Over 60,000 beautifully carved pumpkins line the trail at Iroquois Park each year. The award-winning display is large enough to be seen from above on the Penthouse Terrace of the Omni Hotel. The show runs from October 13th to November 1st, so you have a little time to plan your costume.

Go on a Ghost Tour in Savannah

Savannah, Georgia is filled with ghost stories, tales of historical horrors, and haunted houses. Visitors can explore the city’s historic district adorned with Halloween decorations, attend costume parties at local bars and clubs, and participate in pumpkin carving contests and haunted house experiences. Families can enjoy trick-or-treating in picturesque neighborhoods and join events like the Great Pumpkin Patch. One popular annual event is the Gray Ghost Tour which takes you through some of the city’s most famous haunts. Savannah’s charming and eerie ambiance provides a unique backdrop for Halloween celebrations, making it a memorable destination for all ages.

FAQs:

Q: Are these destinations suitable for families with children?

A: Some destinations, like Salem and Sleepy Hollow, offer family-friendly Halloween activities. However, be aware that some tours may not be suitable for young children due to their spooky nature.

Q: When is the best time to visit these places for a Halloween trip?

A: The weeks leading up to Halloween are the ideal time to visit, as many destinations host special events, festivals, and ghost tours during this period.

Q: Are these destinations safe for tourists, especially during Halloween?

A: Yes, these destinations prioritize tourist safety. However, it’s essential to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially during nighttime activities.

Q: Can I take guided tours at these locations?

A: Yes, guided tours are available at all these destinations, and they often provide valuable insights into the history and hauntings of these places.

Q: Are reservations required for popular Halloween events in these destinations?

A: It’s advisable to make reservations in advance for popular Halloween events, as they can sell out quickly. Check the official websites of each destination for ticket availability and booking information.

Did we leave out your favorite Halloween haunt? Let us know in the comments below!