Are you ready to explore some of the most chilling haunted houses in the US? Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast, a history buff, or a Halloween lover, this guide will take you on a spine-tingling tour. From family-friendly haunts to the scariest, most bone-chilling experiences, we’ve got you covered. Let’s take a look at the best haunted houses across the US and add some serious thrills to your fall bucket list.
Family-Friendly Haunted Houses
If you want to include your whole family in the Halloween fun without giving them nightmares, check out these family-friendly haunted houses. They’re spooky enough to entertain the kids but won’t have them sleeping with the lights on for weeks.
East Coast
On the East Coast, you can find charmingly spooky haunted houses that offer just enough scare for the younger ones. The Salem Witch Museum in Massachusetts combines history with a touch of the eerie, making it an educational yet thrilling experience. In Pennsylvania, the Bates Motel and Haunted Hayride offers a family-friendly haunted hayride that’s perfect for a fall bucket list.
West Coast
Over on the West Coast, Knott’s Scary Farm in California is a classic. Their “Spooky Farm” event is designed to be kid-friendly, turning the terrifying farm into a whimsical haunt. Meanwhile, the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor in Long Beach transforms this historic ship into a less scary, yet intriguing adventure for families.
Scariest Haunted Houses
Craving the ultimate fright? The following haunted houses are not for the faint of heart. These attractions are designed to scare even the most seasoned horror fans and should definitely be on your fall bucket list if you’re looking for the scariest haunted house experiences.
The 13th Gate in Louisiana
Known as one of the best haunted houses in the country, The 13th Gate in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, offers a truly immersive experience. With lifelike sets, realistic scares, and a massive underground maze, this haunted house will leave you questioning what’s real and what’s not.
McKamey Manor in Tennessee
If you’re up for an extreme challenge, McKamey Manor in Summertown, Tennessee, might just be the scariest haunted house you’ll encounter. Famous for its intense and psychologically disturbing experience, participants must sign a waiver before entering. It’s not your average haunted house—it’s a test of pure endurance.
The Dent Schoolhouse in Ohio
Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, The Dent Schoolhouse is reputed to be one of the scariest haunted houses in America. This haunted attraction takes you through a terrifying schoolhouse with a horrifying backstory, guaranteed to send chills down your spine.
Haunted Hayrides
Haunted hayrides provide a unique way to experience the spooky season. Sitting on a hay bale while being escorted through dark, eerie paths can be just as thrilling as walking through a haunted house. Here are some of the best haunted hayrides to add to your fall festivities.
Headless Horseman Hayrides in New York
The Headless Horseman Hayrides in Ulster Park, New York, are legendary. This extensive Halloween attraction features a haunted hayride, numerous haunted houses, and even a haunted corn maze. The theme revolves around the classic tale of the Headless Horseman, making it a must-visit for literature and horror fans alike.
The Haunted Hayride in Los Angeles
For those on the West Coast, the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride offers a chilling experience set in Griffith Park. With different themed sections and a combination of live actors and high-quality animatronics, this haunted hayride promises an unforgettable night of terror.
Haunted Corn Mazes
Navigating through a corn maze under the cover of night can be a spine-chilling experience. Add in some strategically placed scares, and you have yourself a haunted corn maze. Here are some of the best haunted corn mazes to get lost in this Halloween season.
Field of Screams in Pennsylvania
At the Field of Screams in Mountville, Pennsylvania, the haunted corn maze is just one part of the horrifying ensemble that also includes two haunted houses and a haunted hayride. The maze is filled with live actors and unexpected scares that make finding your way out an exhilarating challenge.
The Best Haunted Houses to Visit in the US
When it comes to finding haunted houses near me, the United States has an incredible array of options. No matter where you are, there’s likely a haunted attraction within driving distance that’s perfect for adding to your fall bucket list.
Amityville Horror House
No exploration of haunted places in the US is complete without the infamous Amityville Horror House in New York. Known for the tragic events of the 1970s, this residence became a hub of paranormal interest. Visitors are drawn to the site by the Lutz family’s terrifying experiences after moving in. The house has inspired numerous books and films, cementing its status as a cultural icon in horror. While the home isn’t currently open to visitors, the Amityville Horror House is worth a drive by for those curious about true crime and the supernatural.
Lizzie Borden House
No discussion of haunted locations is complete without mentioning the infamous Lizzie Borden House in Fall River, Massachusetts. This site is linked to the unsolved murders of Andrew and Abby Borden in 1892 and has gained a reputation for being haunted, with reports of strange noises, ghostly sightings, and unexplained cold spots. Today, visitors can tour the house and even stay overnight, attracting true crime enthusiasts and ghost hunters. Guests often share unsettling experiences, adding to the lore of Lizzie Borden and her legacy. A visit here not only explores history but also offers a taste of the paranormal, making it a unique stop on any fall itinerary.
Eastern State Penitentiary in Pennsylvania
Located in Philadelphia, the Eastern State Penitentiary offers one of the most historically significant haunted house experiences. This abandoned prison is said to be genuinely haunted and offers guided tours that highlight its spooky past.
Myrtle’s Plantation
Nestled in St. Francisville, Louisiana, Myrtle’s Plantation is renowned for its scenic beauty and ghostly legends. Often considered one of America’s most haunted homes, this antebellum plantation is steeped in history and mystery. Visitors have reported sightings of apparitions, including a former slave named Chloe, who is said to haunt the grounds. The stories surrounding Myrtle’s Plantation are as captivating as its décor, providing insight into its troubled past. Guided tours offer a fascinating blend of history and hauntings, allowing guests to explore the beautiful yet eerie atmosphere of this historic estate. Whether you’re a history buff or a ghost enthusiast, Myrtle’s Plantation promises a unique experience this Halloween season.
The Winchester Mystery House in California
Over on the West Coast, the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California, is a labyrinth of mystery and haunted history. Built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of the firearm magnate, this house was continuously constructed to appease the spirits she believed were haunting her.
The Whaley House in California
The Whaley House in San Diego, California, is another historical haunted house worth visiting. This old mansion is famous for its ghostly residents and offers evening tours that explore the paranormal activities experienced by many visitors.
The Stanley Hotel in Colorado
If you’re a fan of Stephen King’s “The Shining,” you won’t want to miss the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado. This hotel inspired the terrifying Overlook Hotel in the novel and is known for its ghostly occurrences and haunted history.
Scary Great Storage Options
Haunted houses are more than just spooky attractions—they offer a unique blend of history, mystery, and adrenaline-pumping fun. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly haunted houses or the scariest haunted house experiences, there’s something for everyone. Just like there’s a storage unit for every need at CubeSmart.
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