Halloween is no longer just about going door-to-door for treats in the neighborhood. It has evolved into a popular time for travel, as people flock to various seasonal celebrations across the United States.
From extravagant theme park events to historic haunted cities, these destinations offer unforgettable spooky experiences that are worth planning a trip around.
1. Orlando, Florida
(Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando)
Orlando is the ultimate Halloween travel destination, with major theme parks hosting special after-hours events. Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights, running Wednesday to Sunday through early November, features 10 new haunted houses inspired by “Terrifier” and “Friday the 13th.”
Walt Disney World Resort also offers its own after-hours event, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, with trick-or-treating stations. Daytime visitors can enjoy Halloween-themed shows, parades, and seasonal food and merchandise.
Even smaller Orlando theme parks like SeaWorld and Legoland have their own Halloween offerings, such as Howl-O-Scream and Brick-or-Treat.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada
(Photo by Sally French)
Las Vegas offers plenty of costumes and entertainment year-round, but Halloween is an especially fun time to visit. For those seeking a Universal Halloween Horror Nights experience without the rides, Las Vegas has Universal Horror Unleashed with four mazes and themed eateries.
The city also hosts a free annual Rock of Horror Halloween Bash on Fremont Street.
3. Meow Wolf locations
An exhibit at Meow Wolf in Houston. (Photo courtesy of Meow Wolf)
Immersive art collective Meow Wolf hosts Cosmic Howl parties on October 31 at its locations in Denver, Santa Fe, Houston, and Grapevine. These unique Halloween gatherings include activities like absinthe tastings, tarot readings, live bands, and DJ sets.
4. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem Haunted Happenings. (Photo courtesy of Destination Salem)
Over a million visitors flock to Salem, Massachusetts, each October for Salem Haunted Happenings, the largest Halloween celebration in the world. The month-long program features a parade, ghost tours, haunted houses, and costume balls.
While many festivities are affordable or free, lodging prices can be high. The city’s Hampton Inn, typically less than $300 a night in November, can exceed $700 per night in October due to demand.
5. Half Moon Bay, California
A previous winner of the annual Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off in Half Moon Bay, California. (Photo courtesy of the Half Moon Bay Beautification Committee)
The Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival in Northern California on Oct. 18 and 19 turns this picturesque coastal town into a fall paradise each October. In addition to the famous giant pumpkin weigh-off, visitors can enjoy pumpkin-themed foods, local art vendors, live entertainment, and scenic coastal views.
6. Gilroy, California
Funnel cake served at The Great Big Boo. (Photo courtesy of Gilroy Gardens)
The Great Big Boo at Gilroy Gardens is a fantastic Halloween destination for families with young children. This family theme park offers a not-too-scary Halloween experience with trick-or-treating, costume contests, pumpkin decorating, and Halloween-themed rides. Adults can enjoy Halloween cocktails like Boo Butter Brew and Hocus Pocus Punch amidst the park’s beautiful gardens.
Saving on your Halloween travel
Halloween is not just a single day but a month-long celebration filled with festivities and spending. According to the National Retail Federation, Halloween spending is expected to reach a record $13.1 billion this year.
To save on your Halloween travel expenses, take advantage of shoulder season prices during the extended holiday period. You don’t necessarily have to attend events on October 31st to enjoy the Halloween spirit.
Explore nearby Halloween destinations to make the most of your trip. Consider taking a day trip to a town with a giant pumpkin patch or admiring elaborate home decorations on a themed street.
Ultimately, Halloween travel offers a unique way to celebrate the spooky season.