4 Scariest Halloween Celebrations in the Northeast

By Robert Firpo-Cappiello
September 22, 2023
Reaper gate 3 Medium
At Reapers Revenge - Courtesy of Reapers Revenge
Zombies, ghosts, and ghouls make these haunted attractions the creepiest out there.

Fair warning: These Halloween celebrations are not for everyone. With screams, (fake) blood, and surprises worthy of a Hollywood thriller, these haunted attractions are perfect for those who like to be scared out of their wits at least once each October.

1. Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, PA

Halloween Nights Eastern State Penitentiary
Delirium at Halloween Nights - Courtesy of Eastern State Penitentiary

A weekend or overnight to Philadelphia this time of year may offer the most terrifying Halloween thrill in America. Eastern State Penitentiary was closed long ago for its horrific treatment of inmates, and the fright fest they put on each fall is even scarier the that. With 5 different hauntings from Creepy clowns to vampires and even a 3D haunting - be prepared for a sleepless night!

2. 13th Hour Haunted House, Wharton, NJ

13 Hour Haunted House
13 Hour Haunted House - Courtesy of 13thhour.com

This haunted house in New Jersey gets high marks for re-creating the feel of an actual run-down old house. You don’t feel as if you are visiting a theme park attraction, and that makes the ghosts, ghouls, and zombies all the more terrifying. 13th Hour offers a variety of experiences, including one in which you throw hatchets in the dark with glow in the dark hatchets and targets. And, 13th hour is also famous for its “escape room” experience.

3. Blood Manor, Tribeca, NYC

Blood Manor - NY
Blood Manor - Courtesy of BloodManor/Photo Credit BPS Productions

You don’t have to leave NYC to experience a haunted house. Blood Manor, in TriBeCa, is one of the hottest tickets in town. Some of the ghouls and zombies have a decidedly "downtown" goth vibe and look as if they shop at the iconic Trash & Vaudeville punk/both boutique in the East Village to be honest. Be sure to check out Lights Out, where you explore the manor in complete darkness with nothing but a glow stick to light your path. This is only offered on 2 nights so be sure to book tickets. Other attractions are a wake for a character named Baby Face, and a Killer Clown room that I, for one, will not be entering.

5. Reapers Revenge, Blakely, PA

Reapers Revenge Haunted House
The Lost Carnival at Reapers Revenge - Courtesy of Reapers Revenge

This haunted house will torture you with five intense attractions featuring clowns, cannibalistic mutants, and hayrides that will have you sweating with fear as you venture deeper into the realm of Reaper’s Forest. Consistently voted one of the top 10 haunted attractions in the US every year. After experiencing these nightmares you will want to sleep with the lights on for a long time!

Plan Your Next Getaway
Keep reading
InspirationAdventureFamily

This Hawaiian Cruise Benefits Rebuilding Efforts in Maui

Pioneers in small ship adventure cruising, UnCruise Adventures, recently unveiled their latest 'Aloha Days' Hawaii deals, where every booking is a step towards supporting Maui recovery. For every new booking made during 'Aloha Days' until September 28th, a portion of each deposit will directly contribute to Maui Strong, an initiative to rebuild and rejuvenate Maui and Lahaina town. UnCruise Adventures itineraries are deeply woven with the communities and lands they touch. This is especially true for Hawaiian adventures. The real essence of Hawaii lies not just in its breathtaking landscapes but in its people, traditions, and the stories they share. With the recent events affecting Maui and Lahaina town, this is a reminder of the profound interconnectedness of our adventures with the wellbeing of these communities and the importance of supporting them. The sun shines on the horizon in Kona, Hawaii by Peter Luo - Unsplash “Aloha Days' is not just about offering unbeatable seasonal offers to our guests. It's about embodying the true spirit of Aloha. By supporting a return to travel we can also contribute to the recovery and discovery of the very essence that makes Hawaii so special,” commented UnCruise Adventures, Owner and Captain Dan Blanchard. “Come, join us, and let's make a difference together. This itinerary comes from my heart and each time I visit I'm reminded of why I created this adventure.” The current campaign offers deals on cruises including: Waived Single Supplement: Solo adventurers come aboard. No single supplement on select dates for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Group Incentives: For every group of 12 paid guests, one sails free. Combine with other savings for even more benefits. Some restrictions apply. Valid for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Unbeatable Cabin Savings: Get $1,500 off per couple or $750 off per person. Stack this offer with other select savings. Some restrictions apply. Valid for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Double Kids in Nature Savings: Receive $1,000 off per child, with two paying adults. Normally $500 per child. Can be combined with selected offers. Some restrictions apply. Valid for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Jellyfish near Molokai in the Hawaiian Islands by Jake Houglum - Unsplash These seasonal offers apply to the 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes Adventure that explores from Kona to Molokai or reverse, Molokai to Kona. The 2023-2024 season runs from Nov 18th, 2023, to May 4th, 2024. This includes Hawaii's breathtaking landscapes, volcanic wonders, and rich culture. Guests embark on multi-activity adventures daily, from hiking volcanoes to swimming with manta rays. The all-inclusive week-long itinerary embarks on the Safari Explorer, a 36-passenger vessel built for adventure. Enjoy fresh cuisine, no extra onboard costs, no lines, no crowds, and plenty of adventure.

InspirationFamily

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in This Southern City

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th until October 15th—and it just so happens, that the fall season is one of the best times to visit western North Carolina. The Latinx community is the fastest-growing demographic in the Asheville region, including more than 20 Latin American cultures represented. This Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize, honor, and celebrate the many contributions of the Latinx/Hispanic community. Here are a few recommendations for new and notable ways to celebrate Hispanic heritage in Asheville this month and year-round: Explore art, dance, and music There's plenty of Latinx art to see in Asheville - courtesy of ExploreAsheville.comEl Mercadito, the newest gallery addition to The Refinery AVL, is a collection of drawings, sculptures and mixed-media artwork by Luis Alvaro Sahagun centered on Latinx narratives. As the grandson of a curandera, or healer, Sahagun calls his artmaking “a mystical instrument” that forges a spiritual connection to heal wounds of conquest, colonization and capitalism. Visitors can check out El Mercadito and The Refinery's 20 artist studios every first Friday of the month. Upcoming first Fridays: October 6 and November 3. A bright purple mural celebrating Latinx heritage debuted this summer across a wall along Coxe Ave., near downtown. The artwork, titled “Eres Un Orgullo Latino” (which means “You Are Latin Pride”), was designed and painted by Leslie Reynalte-Llanco as part of Buncombe County's Creative Equity Mural Project.Every Friday and Saturday night, Ritmo Kultural transforms Citizen Vinyl into a Latin dance party. DJ Malinalli and DJ Manukaru spin cumbia, salsa, and reggaeton records, and the cafe kitchen serves up fresh tacos from 7-11pm. In West Asheville, DJ MTN VIBES presents Latin Night at One World Brewing every Wednesday. The evening kicks off at 8:30pm with an all-levels dance lesson, and open dance continues on until midnight.Interdisciplinary artist and rapper Bocafloja will screen the documentary “Bravado Magenta,” followed by a performance and afterparty at Citizen Vinyl. Hosted by Ritmo Kultural, September 30. Doors open at 7pm, program starts at 8pm. Attend special events The Latin Business Council is putting on a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration in the River Arts District. The event at Black Wall Street features discussions, Latinx vendors, food and Zumba. October 14, from 12-4pm. The Weaverville Community Center is hosting a Día de los Muertos fundraiser for Asheville sister city committees in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas and Valladolid, Yucatan. The event includes a procession along Lake Louise honoring the deceased, a photobooth, and a large ofrenda or altar. Ticket price includes a traditional Dia de los Muertos meal, think cochinita pibil and mole negro, and a glass of wine or beer. October 19, 4-8pm. Eat amazing cuisine from Hispanic-owned restaurants Chef Santiago Vargas creates Peruvian-fusion dishes at Mikasa Criolla - courtesy of ExploreAsheville.comLittle Chango – Owner Iris Rodriguez runs this small eatery in South Slope that specializes in arepas honoring food traditions and flavors from across Latin America. The cardamom-infused tres leches cake is not-to-be-missed. Pupuseria Patty – Patty Saenz' menu is a reflection of her heritage that straddles two countries – Nicaragua and El Salvador. Patty's generously-sized pupusas are served with homeland curtido (fermented cabbage) and are made to order with a variety of fillings, like black beans, chicken, and loroco – an edible flower. Mamacita's – This family-run taqueria in downtown Asheville is a local favorite, consistently voted best burrito in town. Their soft corn tortillas are made fresh daily, and their seasonal taco specials ensure no two visits are the same. Guajiro Cuban Comfort Food – A red food truck anchored in the River Arts District serving classic Cuban fare, like lechon asado and pastelitos. Guajiro is the childhood dream of owner and founder Christian Barroso, a second-generation Cuban American who grew up cooking authentic Cuban meals with his grandmother, Nana. Mikasa Criolla – Chef Santiago Vargas is passionate about sharing food traditions from his native Peru, to include Chinese and Japanese influences from a wave of migration in the 19th century. Mikasa pairs Peruvian classics, like aji gallina, and Santiago's unique creations, like shrimp and grits empanadas. Located inside the S&W Market. —For more information on Latinx businesses, events and dining in Asheville, be sure to check out this guide.

InspirationFamilyTheme Parks

The Ultimate Guide to Orlando's Halloween Celebrations and Theme Park Events

Orlando, Florida—sometimes called the "Halloween Vacation Capital"—invites visitors to celebrate the spooky season with a full lineup of frightful and family-friendly experiences throughout the destination. Visitors can enjoy hair-raising, spooktacular events, such as horror movie brunches, paranormal-themed escape rooms, haunted botanical gardens, kid-friendly trick-or-treat trails, and an adults-only vampire bar. “Orlando lives up to its reputation as the Halloween Vacation Capital with nearly three months of festive celebrations for all ages,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. “Halloween fanatics, horror movie enthusiasts and costume-loving families can enjoy the multitude of special events across our theme parks, attractions and beyond.” While many of the events are focused around special theme park celebrations, there are plenty of other attractions happening beyond DisneyWorld and Universal that are equally amazing. Below are some of the top highlights for this fall season. Spooky Theme Park Events Howl-o-Scream at SeaWorld - courtesy of Visit OrlandoMickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort (select nights, now through Nov. 1) makes a frightfully fun return at Magic Kingdom Park. The family-friendly, all-ages event features eerie entertainment that includes the “Hocus Pocus” Villain Spelltacular! at Cinderella Castle, Disney's Not-So-Spooky Spectacular, Disney Junior Jam for young partygoers, Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, the Trick-or-Treat Trail, Disney Characters in costume, and more than 20 favorite attractions with a Halloween twist. Guests are also invited to wear costumes, with some restrictions. Universal Orlando Resort's Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida (Sept. 1 – Nov. 4) returns for a record-breaking 48 nights featuring 10 new, movie-quality haunted houses featuring “The Exorcist: Believer”, “Stranger Things 4” and “The Last of Us” along with five scare zones filled with creatures lunging from the shadows, and two live shows. At SeaWorld Orlando, guests can experience two Halloween-themed events: Howl-O-Scream (select nights, Sept. 8 - Oct. 31) returns to terrorize guests at SeaWorld Orlando. Offering 24 nights of fully immersive fear, the event will feature fright-inducing haunted houses and scare zones; thrilling nighttime coaster rides and experiences; an interactive bar; and an electrifying live show. Additionally, little ones can dress up in their favorite costumes to trick-or-treat and meet colorful Halloween characters at the SeaWorld Spooktacular (weekends, Sept. 16 - Oct. 29), a family-friendly daytime event included with regular theme park admission.Brick or Treat Presents Monster Party at LEGOLAND Florida Resort (weekends, Sept. 16 – Oct. 29), a signature Halloween event included with theme park admission, will feature a trick or treat trail with candy, live entertainment and shows, never-before-seen exclusive LEGO characters and an all-new cinematic experience to create the ultimate family Halloween celebration. Family-Friendly Frights Beyond the Theme Parks Gatorland's Halloween events - courtesy of Visit Orlando The centerpiece of many Orlando trips will often be one of their popular theme parks, but that doesn't mean you have to limit the fun there. There are many more unique, kids-friendly events happening in September and October to experience. Screamin' Green Hauntoween at Crayola Experience (Sept. 24 – Oct. 31) celebrates the Halloween season with a lineup of spooky happenings included with admission, such as a themed scavenger hunt, spook-tastic crafts, character photo ops, trick-or-treating on the weekends and more. Guests craving more can add-on activities like pumpkin decorating and slime making. Gatorland's “Gators, Ghosts and Goblins” Halloween event (weekends, Oct. 14–29) returns for its fifth year of family fun and fright. The all-ages daytime event, included with regular admission, will feature an all-new haunt zone and exhibit, interactive characters, animal meet-and-greets, candy giveaways, a children's Halloween costume parade and more. Pirates Dinner Adventure will offer “Vampirates: When the Blood Moon Rises” (Sept. 19 – Oct. 31), a limited time Halloween-themed dinner show suitable for all ages. Guests will Embark on a spooktacular journey filled with aerial artistry, swordplay, death-defying stunts and dynamic duels. Happy Frights at Harry P. Leu Gardens (Sept. 29 – Oct. 31) is an all-ages, family-friendly trick-or-treat adventure through 12 immersive worlds. The event will give guests an opportunity to meet a dancing bridge-troll, walk through a garden of sunflowers, explore a neon-light maze, climb up a giant hay-pyramid, celebrate Dia de Muertos and so much more - all while visiting eight trick-or-treat stations along the way. The German American Society of Central Florida will host Halloween Oktoberfest (Oct. 28), a combination of the well-renowned German autumn festival and a Halloween celebration. The family-friendly event will feature authentic German food, a Biergarten, live musical entertainment, a kids play area, a traditional flag parade and more. Lake Nona Town Center will host the family-friendly Lake Nona Graveyard Smash event (Oct. 28). Mortals will be able to party with ghosts and ghouls; participate in trick-or-treat stations; experience live music; and take a journey through inflatable courses. This event is free and open to the public with no ticket required. Gaylord Palms Resort's annual Goblins & Giggles weekends (Sept.9 – Oct. 29) features family-friendly events including a spooky scavenger hunt; live shows; dance and costume parties; a haunted escape room; character experiences; pumpkins; movies and more. The resort will feature a “Fall Into Family Fun” vacation package, which includes an overnight stay with premium views, $50 nightly resort credit, one scavenger hunt booklet and two Halloween-themed crafts in the Adventure Kids' Clubhouse. Thrilling, Adults-Only Experiences Cocktails & Screams - courtesy of Visit Orlando While Orlando is known for being a fabulous family destination, there are plenty of events for date nights and adults-only crowds. For Halloween fun all year long, The Bureau features Possession at Haddon Heights, a paranormal themed escape room that forces guests to confront an evil entity at an abandoned school. Renaissance Theatre Company will present the return of “Nosferatu" (Sept. 15 – Nov. 5) at the Ren. The re-vamped, 90-minute adults-only horror experience offers an entirely new concept from last year's event, where each patron has a unique experience as the cast of 32 vampires lead the audience into hidden corners of the building playing out engaging scenarios. Later in the evening, “VBar”, the elevated Vampire-nightclub, opens its doors to guests with separate admission. Harry P. Leu Gardens will host Haunting Nights (Sept. 29 – Oct. 31), an artful, elevated Halloween event, brought to life by Creative City Project, featuring thrilling surprises for guests 13 and older. The immersive event will feature jump scares as guests encounter several characters throughout the journey that will provide a heightened level of thrill. Teatro Martini, the Vegas-inspired adult dinner show, will host its annual Halloween Revue (Sept. 29 – Oct. 31) this fall. The show will feature lyrical pole dancers, comedians, magicians, jugglers and limited-edition themed cocktails throughout the season. Scream n' Stream Drive-Thru Halloween Experience, a haunted Halloween drive-thru event, will return for its third year featuring seven horrifying zones to drive through complete with monsters, music, lighting and special effects Friday through Sunday from Oct. 6-29. Cocktails & Screams in Downtown Orlando is an only Halloween-themed bar, featuring live music and an extensive list of creative cocktails. On Sundays this fall, guests can experience the Cereal Killer Brunch from noon to 5 p.m., among other themed events throughout the season. And on Oct. 31, new cocktails and entertainment will debut during the HallowEMO Night event, featuring a complete lineup of local bands to celebrate Halloween. Vampires, ghastly revenants, and banshees come to life in Phantasmagoria XIV: “Tales of the Undead” (Oct. 26-28). For three nights only at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, guests can experience the original tales of the critically acclaimed Victorian Horror Troupe “PHANTASMAGORIA” and the haunting stories of world-famous authors including Edgar Allen Poe, H.G. Wells, Penny Dreadfuls and more. The Halloween Pub Crawl (Oct. 27) returns to downtown Orlando for another year of killer-drink specials and a chance for guests to show off their hauntingly best costumes. From 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., Halloween fans will have access to all participating venues, four complimentary drinks, drink specials and more.

InspirationAdventure

Beyond Yellowstone: The Most Beautiful Autumn Views in Wyoming

Renowned for its rugged landscapes and untamed wilderness, Wyoming shifts into a captivating tapestry of red, gold and amber, inviting travelers to experience a season like no other. Whether relishing the serenity of Grand Teton National Park, embarking on scenic drives through the Bighorn Mountains or savoring local culinary delights, autumn in Wyoming promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature's brilliance. The following destinations showcase the best of autumn across every corner of the Cowboy State: Casper Mountain Located in central Wyoming, the mountain's expansive woodlands practically explode with a vibrant mix of aspen and deciduous trees, transforming the land into a colorful masterpiece. Whether wandering along scenic trails, like Garden Creek waterfall, that wind through the woods or taking in views from the mountaintop, the beauty of the leaves changing hue creates an unforgettable experience. Nearby town: Casper. The nearby gateway city, offers a blend of old Western roots and modern comforts. The town boasts an active arts scene, complete with galleries and cultural happenings. Notable landmarks such as the Nicolaysen Art Museum and the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center give a glimpse into the area's past. Medicine Bow National Forest Fall leaves on a road in Saratoga, Wyoming near Medicine Bow National Forest by Dana Davis - Unsplash In southwest Wyoming, Medicine Bow National Forest stands as an inviting autumnal haven, with its expansive woodlands showcasing a rich palette of fall colors, the forest becomes a breathtaking canvas of nature's artistry. Nearby town: Laramie. As one of the gateway cities to this natural wonder, a visit to Laramie adds a historical and cultural appeal to the journey. Known for its lively arts scene, Laramie hosts a diverse range of events, including theatrical performances and art exhibitions. The city's well-preserved architecture and lively downtown offer a glimpse into its storied past, reflecting both its Wild West heritage and its role as a thriving college town, home to the University of Wyoming. Bighorn National Forest In north-central Wyoming, Bighorn National Forest emerges as an ideal location for those seeking a magical fall oasis. Take in a wide variety of fall colors that cover the landscape as you explore along hiking trails leading through this stunning display. While in the area, be sure to cruise along the Bighorn Scenic Byway and take in the breathtaking scenery. Nearby town: Sheridan. As the gateway city to the Bighorns, Sheridan lends its own unique charm to the journey. This quaint town boasts a rich history as a bustling cattle town, with its Main Street designated as a historic district. Sheridan's lively cultural scene offers galleries, local theater and museums like the Bradford Brinton Memorial & Museum. Shoshone National Forest Leaves beginning to turn near Cody, Wyoming - courtesy of Natalie Strong As the leaves transition into warm, rich hues, the Shoshone National Forest becomes a fall fanatic’s dream destination for leaf peeping. This natural performance invites both contemplation and exploration, offering trails that wind through this breathtaking array of color. Nearby town: Cody. Just outside of Shoshone National Forest and Yellowstone National Park, Cody adds its own unique touch. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody, the town carries a spirit of the Wild West in its roots. While there, be sure to make a stop at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West which houses five museums in one that celebrate Western art and Plains Indian heritage. Devils Tower National Monument Sunset at Devils Tower by Mick Haupt - Unsplash In the heart of the Wyoming Black Hills, Devils Tower National Monument, also known as Bear Lodge, emerges as an inviting destination to take in the changing seasons. Take a stroll along the paved Tower Trail to observe all the angles of the monument and take in the dreamlike fall colors. Nearby town: Sundance. Located less than 30 miles southeast of Devils Tower, Sundance boasts a rich history. As the site where the Sundance Kid received his infamous name, the town's historic main street resonates with that legacy. Squaretop Mountain A cow moose and calf near Pinedale, Wyoming by Tim Peterson - Unsplash Nestled in the Wyoming wilderness, Squaretop Mountain stands as a captivating retreat for those seeking the beauty of autumn's embrace. For the best sights and wildlife viewing, take an early morning hike along Green River Lakes Trail. Nearby town: Pinedale. As a gateway city to Squaretop Mountain, Pinedale serves as a cozy place for guests to stay overnight, explore its food and drink scene as well as learn about its historical significance. Known for its roots in the fur trading era, the town preserves its heritage with historical landmarks such as Rendezvous Pointe. Moreover, Pinedale serves as a hub for outdoor adventure, offering access to the Wind River Range and Fremont Lake.