The Best Halloween Destinations: From South Dakota to Transylvania, Unveiling the World's Spookiest Haunts

Are you ready for a spine-chilling adventure? Look no further! Get ready to explore the best Halloween destinations from around the world. From the haunted catacombs of Paris to the eerie streets of Salem, Massachusetts, we will take you on a thrilling journey through some of the most renowned spooky sites. Whether you're a lover of the paranormal or simply seeking a frightfully good time, these destinations are guaranteed to send shivers down your spine. So, grab your broomstick and join us as we uncover the history and mystery behind these famous haunts. Get ready for a Halloween experience like no other!

A Brief History Of Why We Celebrate Halloween

The name "Halloween" originates from the ancient European celebration of All Hallows' Eve, the night before the Christian feast of All Hallows' Day (also known as All Saint's Day). During this festival, people honored saints and dressed up as them, going door to door singing songs and asking for "soul cakes," which gave rise to today's tradition of Trick-or-Treating.

Many other Halloween customs we practice today are influenced by the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain. Celebrated at the end of October to mark the changing seasons and shorter days, Samhain involved connecting with the deceased. People believed that the barrier between our world and the afterlife was particularly thin. Over time, Samhain evolved into a more lighthearted celebration, which was brought to the Americas by Irish and Scottish immigrants. By the 20th century, it had transformed into the holiday we all know and love, complete with costumes, pumpkin carving, and indulging in sweets.

Famous Haunts in South Dakota

Courtesy of Nancy J Friedman Public Relations

If you haven't considered South Dakota as a Halloween destination, there are several events that will make you rethink. For those interested in ghost hunting, these four events claim to bring you closer to the paranormal. Stay at Rapid City's historic Hotel Alex Johnson, known as one of the most haunted hotels in the country, where you can hunt for ghosts with their Ghost Adventure package that includes accommodations in a reported haunted room. Alternatively, you can tour the Adams House in Deadwood with a team of professional paranormal researchers. In Deadwood, you may encounter spirits like Wild Bill Hickock and Calamity Jane at Mount Moriah Cemetery or experience strong supernatural presence along the "Trail of Spirits" at Sica Hollow State Park.

For family-friendly experiences, you and your children can embark on a guided night hike illuminated by jack-o-lanterns painted by Custer Elementary School students at the Halloween Night Hike in Custer State Park. You can explore the Extinct Species Graveyard at ZooBoo, a three-night Halloween party at the Great Plains Zoo. At the Washington Pavilion's Spooky Science, you and your kids can engage in Halloween-themed science and art projects. Lastly, downtown Yankton hosts the annual Harvest Halloween, a fall and Halloween-themed festival offering fun activities for everyone.

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Anoka, MN

Photo via @getnorth

• Perfect For: Family-friendly Halloween events

If you're seeking the best places to celebrate Halloween, look no further than the Halloween Capital of the World, Anoka! This Minnesota city hosts what is believed to be the first organized Halloween event in the U.S. Initially started to prevent pranks and mischief, Anoka's Halloween festivities have now expanded into a month of celebrations and family fun. Situated about 30 minutes north of Minneapolis, Anoka offers scenic views of fall foliage and outdoor adventures. In addition to Halloween activities, you can explore local boutiques and antique dealers, as Anoka is renowned as a premier shopping destination.

Halloween Things to Do in Anoka

Embark on a ghostly adventure at the Anoka Haunted House. Showcase your pumpkin carving skills for a chance to win a prize or participate in the scarecrow contest at the Pumpkin Weigh-Off, Scarecrow Contest, & Adult Pumpkin Carving Contest at Anoka City Hall Plaza. Find a great spot to watch the Grande Day Parade, the largest parade in the state, or witness floats, costumes, and displays illuminated in the dark at the Light Up the Night Parade. Take a stroll through the city streets and admire the creatively decorated houses participating in the House Decorating Contest. For a more active experience, join the Anoka Halloween Gray Ghost Run, a 5K race where participants are encouraged to dress in costumes.

Village Halloween Parade in New York, N.Y.

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The Village Halloween Parade in New York City is one of the most renowned Halloween events in the United States and the world's largest Halloween parade. Created in 1973 by puppeteer Ralph Lee, the parade attracts over two million spectators and features 60,000 participants. While the parade itself is free to watch, individuals can also join the parade if they come dressed in a costume. To avoid long entry lines, people can purchase tickets for the annual Special Theme Costume section or any parade band of their choice.

New York City, United States

New York City is one of the top destinations to celebrate Halloween as it is always ready for a party, particularly during the Halloween season. With countless parties, haunted events, parades, and performances, there is something for everyone throughout the entire month of October. The most famous event in New York City is the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade, which starts at dusk and continues into the night. This parade, initiated by mask maker Ralph Lee in 1973, has grown to become the largest Halloween celebration in the United States. Remember to dress up in a Halloween costume and mask, as they are mandatory for participating in the parade. Each year, over two million people gather on the streets in festive costumes to celebrate.

Top Recommendations: Halloween Parade in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, giant puppet parade.

Also Read: Fun Ways To Celebrate Halloween in the USA

Boyne Valley, Ireland

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What better place to celebrate Halloween than where it all began? As History.com explains, the Halloween tradition originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. At the time, people would wear costumes to ward off ghosts, which is reminiscent of today's festivities (although they probably didn't have specific candy preferences back then). Today, Ireland commemorates Halloween with various festivals throughout the month of October, including the Púca Halloween Festival. This festival honors the Celtic new year with music, art, and, of course, plenty of delicious treats.

Buena Park, CA

• Perfect For: All-age theme park thrills

If you're looking for one of the best cities to celebrate Halloween, head to Buena Park, California! Dubbed the Halloween Capital of SoCal, Buena Park transforms into "Boo-uena Park" during the Halloween season from September to October. A highlight of the city's Halloween festivities is the transformation of the Knott's Berry Farm theme park into "Knott's Scary Farm." This event, the first and longest-running Halloween theme park in the United States, offers thrilling mazes and an interactive zombie experience. When you're not immersing yourself in Buena Park's spooky attractions, enjoy the pleasant weather, indulge in sweet treats, or visit nearby Disneyland.

Halloween Things to Do in Buena Park

Experience the transformed roller coasters, interactive thrills, and eerie mazes at Knott's Scary Farm. For a tamer Halloween experience suitable for children aged 13 and under, participate in the trick-or-treating through Ghost Town and watch Halloween shows at Knott's Spooky Farm. Explore haunted houses, pick pumpkins from the patch, or enter your little ones in the kids costume contest at the Fall Spooktacular. For a seasonal twist on the original Pirate's Dinner Adventure, attend Vampirates, a witch-themed bar that offers craft cocktails and hearty seasonal dishes in an intimate setting. Alternatively, travel to Disneyland for their Halloween events, including the Oogie Boogie Bash and the Main Street Pumpkin Festival.

Knott's Scary Farm in Buena Park, California

Courtesy of Knott's Scary Farm

As the largest Halloween attraction in Southern California, Knott's Scary Farm guarantees chills and thrills for all who dare to enter. For almost 50 years, the creators behind this immersive event have continuously brought innovation to the Halloween experience. With 15 attractions, including scare zones, mazes, and rides that connect to different parts of the park, Knott's Scary Farm ensures a terrifying adventure for all attendees.

Disneyland

Disney parks are always a fantastic choice for Halloween celebrations for both children and childless adults. The parks worldwide host numerous Halloween events, costume contests, firework shows, and pumpkin decorations. Disneyland, Magic Kingdom, and Tokyo Disneyland feature their renowned Haunted Mansions that visitors can explore.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Tokyo DisneySea, and Walt Disney Studios Park offer the Tower of Terror attraction, while Hong Kong Disneyland goes all out with parades and other festivities. Each park offers unique experiences during the Halloween season.

If you find yourself in California for Halloween, be sure to check out our comprehensive Disney drinking guide to discover the best cocktails to enhance your celebration. And after that, why not visit the West Hollywood Halloween party?

Screams Halloween Theme Park in Dallas, Texas

Courtesy of Screams Halloween Theme Park

Located just outside of Dallas, Texas, Screams Halloween Theme Park is the ultimate destination for fans of fright. The park offers five haunted attractions: Zombie Wasteland… Apocalypse, Cursed… The Witches of TerraMythica Castle, Klownz in 3-D, Hotel D'Feers, and Time's Up… Maze. After exploring these spooky haunts, visitors can enjoy other entertainment options such as Scary-Oke, the park's version of karaoke, and various skill-based games including paintball.

Haunted Happenings in Salem, Massachusetts

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October is the prime time for visiting Salem, Massachusetts, as the city hosts a multitude of events for Halloween enthusiasts. Haunted Happenings is an annual celebration of Halloween and fall in New England. Rather than being organized by one entity, the festivities consist of a collection of events catering to all ages. Salem Horror Fest offers a mix of classic horror films, lectures, and appearances by horror icons. The Festival of the Dead, celebrating Salem's witchy past and present, invites you to partake in various events, including the Salem Psychic Fair and Witches' Halloween Ball. The Haunted Happenings Grand Parade, presented by the Salem Chamber of Commerce, is also a must-see. Whether you seek frightful adventures or enchanting experiences, Salem has something for everyone.

Salem, MA

• Perfect For: Witch-themed Halloween festivities

If you're unsure where to go for Halloween, look no further than Salem! Infamous for the Witch Trials of 1692, this city is synonymous with supernatural oddities. During the Halloween season, Salem becomes a hub of witch museums, witch-trial reenactments, and magic shops. Visiting in October allows you to participate in the special Haunted Happening festivities, which include parades, film screenings, psychic readings, and more throughout the entire month. Salem also offers endless opportunities to explore its rich history on the Salem Heritage Trail, indulge in delightful dining experiences, and engage in breathtaking outdoor activities.

Halloween Things to Do in Salem

Attend the Grand Parade at the beginning of the month, featuring festive floats, vehicles, and performances. Immerse yourself in ghostly projections and 4D effects at The Gallows Hill Main Show at the Gallows Hill Museum to witness the Salem witch trials come to life. Show off your pets at the Howl-o-Ween Pet Parade. Discover Salem's history on a guided Bewitched Historical Tour with a local historian. Embark on the Ghosts & Legends Trolley for a chilling ride past notable spots like The House of the Seven Gables. The month-long Festival of the Dead offers events such as the Salem Psychic Fair and Witches' Halloween Ball. Lastly, don't miss the Salem Horror Fest for screenings of your favorite horror movies and live podcast tapings.

Spirit of Halloweentown in St. Helens, Oregon

Courtesy of Spirit of Halloweentown via Instagram

If you're a fan of the 1998 cult classic Halloweentown, consider visiting St. Helens, Oregon. St. Helens was the main filming site for this beloved Halloween movie, featuring Kimberly J. Brown, Judith Hoag, and the late Debbie Reynolds. To celebrate the film's legacy, the city hosts a month-long event called the "Spirit of Halloweentown." The festivities begin with the Lighting of the Great Pumpkin at the city plaza and continue throughout the month with haunted tours, costume contests for both people and pets, face painting, parades, movie screenings, parties, and more.

West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval in Los Angeles, California

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The West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval first took place in 1987 as a community gathering of costumes, entertainment, and performers. This free public event stretches for one mile along Santa Monica Boulevard, from North Doheny Drive to La Cienega Boulevard. Due to the large crowds (around 150,000-200,000 attendees in 2018), it is recommended not to bring children and pets. However, there are family-friendly options available, such as Boo at the Zoo & Botanical Gardens, the Youth Halloween Carnival at Plummer Park, or the Howl-O-Ween event.

The Catacombs of Paris, France

Deep beneath the city of Paris lies a network of passages that serve as the final resting place for over 6 million people. These catacombs are a perfect Halloween destination, as they are filled with skeletons and exude a creepy atmosphere. If you've ever been to other catacombs around the world, such as in Rome, you'll understand the eerie experience they offer. Fall is the best time to visit Paris, as the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage.

photo credit: Erin Clarkson | Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

Paris, France

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If you're looking for a sophisticated Halloween experience, Paris is the place to be. Although it may not be known for traditional trick-or-treating, Paris celebrates All Saints' Day, known as La Toussaint, which is a national and Catholic holiday to honor the deceased. Families visit graves and adorn them with flowers, similar to the Day of the Dead in Mexico. The city also offers light-hearted events like parties at Disneyland Paris and the renowned haunted house, Le Manoir de Paris.

Venice and Borgo a Mozzano, Italy

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While Italy may not have a strong Halloween tradition, Venice is a destination that embraces the spooky season. It is well-known among ghost hunters and offers eerie experiences, especially on the haunted island of Poveglia. This island has a dark history as a quarantine zone for plague sufferers and an insane asylum. For Halloween parties, head to the town of Borgo a Mozzano in Northern Italy, where they host a massive annual celebration on the Devil's Bridge.

Prague, Czech Republic

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Prague is gaining popularity as a Halloween destination, thanks to its Gothic architecture and growing expat community. While trick-or-treating is not widely practiced, the city's atmosphere feels both romantic and spooky. You can explore a torture museum, which is more terrifying than any haunted house, or simply enjoy the gothic beauty of the architecture.

Brussels & Ostend, Belgium

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Brussels comes alive with spooky decorations, Halloween parties, themed restaurants, and frightening activities. The city prepares for Halloween weeks in advance and offers a variety of events. One unique attraction is a "bloodbath" themed city swimming pool, where costumed children can swim. Another popular Halloween destination is Ostend, known as "Belgium's Halloween city," which hosts ghoulish events, creepy costume parades, and much more.

Top Recommendations: Brux’Hell, festival in Namur citadel, Walibi amusement park

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Whether you're seeking family-friendly fun or adult-oriented festivities, Amsterdam offers something for everyone on Halloween. The city transforms into a party hub with events of all sizes happening throughout. You can attend creative costume parties, themed events in cafes, restaurants, and clubs, and even participate in ghost tours, music concerts, or all-night marathons of scary movies. Amsterdam also has its own version of Halloween, called Sint Maarten, taking place on November 11th.

Top Recommendations: Amsterdam Dungeon, Ghost Walk, Haunted Halloween at Panama

Venice & Carinaldo, Italy

In Italy, All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day are significant celebrations. Venice, in particular, embraces these holidays with costumes and visits to haunted islands. One popular activity is visiting Bran Castle, also known as the home of Count Dracula, which offers tours and hosts a Halloween bash with a nighttime tour, a party, and an open bar. Another Halloween destination in Italy is Corinaldo, which is known as the Italian Capital of Halloween and holds a fire festival on Halloween evening.

Top Recommendations: Ghost Tour to Rialto and San Marco Square, Festivities at the Palazzina Grassi

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

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In Mexico, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a significant festival that honors the deceased. The celebration is not a horror show but rather a way to remember and keep the spirits of loved ones alive. San Miguel de Allende offers a vibrant celebration that extends through November 2nd. Festivities include parades, parties, and visits to cemeteries to decorate graves and build altars.

Transylvania, Romania

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Transylvania, famous as the home of Count Dracula, offers a range of spooky experiences for Halloween. Visitors can explore Bran Castle, known as the mythical count's residence, which is open for daily tours. The castle even hosts a yearly Halloween bash that includes a nighttime tour, a party, and an open bar.

Scotland

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Scotland has strong ties to Halloween's past, and the country offers a variety of events and attractions for the holiday. One recommended experience is the Ghost Trail, which highlights 15 locations said to be the most haunted spots in Scotland. The tour ends with the Samhuinn Fire Festival in Edinburgh, providing a delightful conclusion to the Halloween journey.

Famous Haunts in South Dakota

Courtesy of Nancy J Friedman Public Relations

South Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind for Halloween fun, but the state has a range of events to offer. For ghost enthusiasts, there are four events that provide opportunities to get closer to the paranormal. Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City, known as one of the most haunted hotels in the country, offers a Ghost Adventure package. The Adams House in Deadwood offers tours with professional paranormal researchers. Deadwood itself, known for its Wild West history, has lingering spirits and a haunted cemetery. Sica Hollow State Park offers the "Trail of Spirits," where supernatural presence is strong. For family-friendly experiences, Custer State Park hosts a Halloween Night Hike, while ZooBoo at the Great Plains Zoo features an Extinct Species Graveyard. The Washington Pavilion offers Spooky Science projects, and Yankton celebrates Harvest Halloween with fall and Halloween-themed fun.

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New Orleans, LA

• Perfect For: Holiday festivals, haunted historical sites

New Orleans is not only famous for Mardi Gras but also offers a fantastic Halloween experience. As one of America's most haunted cities, New Orleans has a rich voodoo and supernatural history. Visitors can indulge in ghostly activities such as exploring the city's cemeteries, known as "Cities of the Dead," or taking part in haunted tours. As Halloween approaches, the city comes alive with costume parties, parades, and interactive experiences. In between, you can savor beignets, try Creole food, enjoy live jazz music, and explore the vibrant LGBTQ scene.

Halloween Things to Do in New Orleans

Watch the Krewe of Boo parade in the French Quarter, where participants don extravagant costumes, ride unique floats, and toss candy to onlookers. Families can enjoy spooky activities like the Ghost Train at Boo at the Zoo. For more intense scares, try the Devil's Swamp Haunted Terror Tour or the haunted mansion experience at The Mortuary. Embark on a Cemetery Voodoo Tour to learn about famous voodoo queen Marie Laveau and visit her tomb. For music lovers, the Voodoo Festival offers national touring acts and a fright zone.

Las Vegas, NV

• Perfect For: 21+ Halloween parties

If you're seeking the biggest Halloween parties, Las Vegas is the place to be. The city hosts a plethora of spine-chilling cocktails, haunted street parades, and an abundance of costumed individuals on the famous Strip. Beyond Halloween festivities, Las Vegas offers luxurious pools, boutique shopping, unique museums, fine dining, and free entertainment at its world-renowned resorts and casinos.

Halloween Things to Do in Las Vegas

Visit Hakkasan Nightclub for popular DJ sets and themed dance parties. The Freak the Beat music festival celebrates the Day of the Dead with two stages, a silent disco, and a costume contest. Dance and listen to hip music at Tao Nightclub. Fremont Street hosts the month-long Rock of Horror event, featuring live music, light shows, costume contests, and a Halloween Bar Crawl. Experience the Official SAW Escape, a puzzle-solving challenge in a terrifying setting. For more scares, explore the Asylum & Hotel Fear haunted houses.

Venice & Carinaldo, Italy

In Italy, Venice celebrates All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day in a unique fashion. The city embraces the holiday by dressing up in costumes and visiting haunted islands. Bran Castle, also known as the home of Count Dracula, offers tours and hosts a Halloween bash. Corinaldo, regarded as the Italian Capital of Halloween, holds a fire festival on Halloween evening.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Jan Sochor/Getty Images

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is widely celebrated in Mexico. The holiday is a way to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. San Miguel de Allende offers vibrant festivities that extend through November 2nd. The celebrations include parades, parties, and visits to cemeteries to decorate graves and build altars.

Transylvania, Romania

Jeremy Woodhouse/Getty Images

Transylvania, known as the home of Count Dracula, is perfect for those seeking spooky experiences. Visitors can explore Bran Castle, the mythical count's residence, which is open for tours and hosts an annual Halloween bash with a nighttime tour, a party, and an open bar.

Scotland

theasis/Getty Images

Scotland has strong ties to Halloween, and the country offers a range of events and attractions. The Ghost Trail takes visitors to 15 locations that are said to be haunted. The tour ends at the Samhuinn Fire Festival in Edinburgh, providing a delightful conclusion to the Halloween journey.

Famous Haunts in South Dakota

Courtesy of Nancy J Friedman Public Relations

South Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind for Halloween fun, but the state has a range of events to offer. For ghost enthusiasts, there are four events that provide opportunities to get closer to the paranormal. Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City, known as one of the most haunted hotels in the country, offers a Ghost Adventure package. The Adams House in Deadwood offers tours with professional paranormal researchers. Deadwood itself, known for its Wild West history, has lingering spirits and a haunted cemetery. Sica Hollow State Park offers the "Trail of Spirits," where supernatural presence is strong. For family-friendly experiences, Custer State Park hosts a Halloween Night Hike, while ZooBoo at the Great Plains Zoo features an Extinct Species Graveyard. The Washington Pavilion offers Spooky Science projects, and Yankton celebrates Harvest Halloween with fall and Halloween-themed fun.

The Louisville Zoo Halloween Party in Louisville, Kentucky

Courtesy of the Louisville Zoo

Head to the "World's Largest Halloween Party" this fall for a Halloween experience designed for kids at the Louisville Zoo. In addition to free experiences such as themed areas inspired by iconic children's movies and books, meeting Mumpkin the Giant Talking Pumpkin, exploring a giant hay maze, and admiring artistically carved and lit pumpkins, there are also optional experiences available for an additional fee. These include face painting, train and carousel rides, and a guided attraction to find the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow. The spider house, which offers an educational experience about different spider species and their intricate webs, is also open for the season.

Party attendees will have the opportunity to meet costumed characters and enjoy trick-or-treating along the zoo paths. The zoo also caters to children with food allergies by offering allergy-friendly treats and non-food goodies.

As you can see, there are countless spooky destinations around the world where you can have the fright of your life this Halloween. From the eerie Catacombs of Paris to the lively Village Halloween Parade in New York City, each place offers a unique and unforgettable experience. So, whether you're craving a haunted adventure in the heart of Salem or want to immerse yourself in the ghoulish charm of Transylvania, there's a Halloween destination out there waiting for you. Pack your bags, gather your courage, and get ready to embrace the spirit of Halloween in its truest form. Happy haunting!