Check Out These Halloween Travel Destinations In The U.S.

As October rolls in, the air begins to carry a crispness that signals the approach of Halloween. For those who love all things spooky, eerie, and fun, Halloween is more than just a night of trick-or-treating—it’s an opportunity for a thrilling travel adventure. Across the U.S., towns and cities transform into haunted adventure, offering events and activities that range from ghost tours to pumpkin festivals. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly celebration or a spine-tingling fright night, here are some of the best Halloween travel destinations in the U.S. that are sure to deliver a ghostly good time.

1. Salem, Massachusetts

No Halloween destination list would be complete without mentioning Salem, Massachusetts, the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Salem is arguably the Halloween capital of the U.S., hosting one of the largest Halloween celebrations in the country.

During the entire month of October, Salem transforms into a hub of Halloween excitement with its annual Haunted Happenings festival. Visitors can explore haunted houses, attend witchcraft ceremonies, take ghost tours, and visit the Salem Witch Museum, which tells the tragic story of the witch trials. Costume parties, parades, psychic readings, and horror movie screenings add to the eerie atmosphere.

For history buffs, the town also offers plenty of educational opportunities with historical walking tours that dive deep into the town’s dark past. Whether you're into spooky fun or historical intrigue, Salem is a quintessential Halloween destination that’s packed with fright and charm.

2. Sleepy Hollow, New York

Made famous by Washington Irving’s classic story, Sleepy Hollow, New York, is another must-visit destination for Halloween lovers. Located just 30 miles north of New York City, this small town embraces its haunted heritage with full force every October.

Visitors to Sleepy Hollow can experience a reenactment of the tale of the Headless Horseman in the historic village of Tarrytown. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, a stunning display of over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins, is a highlight that families can enjoy. For the brave at heart, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery offers evening tours where visitors can pay their respects to Washington Irving and hear tales of local legends.

Other events in the area include haunted hayrides, live performances, and seasonal markets filled with Halloween-themed goods. The atmosphere is steeped in legend and lore, making Sleepy Hollow a top Halloween destination for those seeking a blend of history, storytelling, and eerie fun.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

Known for its supernatural roots and connection to voodoo, New Orleans takes Halloween celebrations to the next level. The city's French Quarter, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, sets the perfect eerie scene for Halloween festivities.

One of the top events is the Krewe of Boo, the city’s official Halloween parade, which features spooky floats, elaborate costumes, and plenty of treats. Visitors can also take part in a number of haunted tours that explore the city’s many ghost stories, visit infamous locations like the LaLaurie Mansion, or join a voodoo ritual to get in touch with New Orleans’ mystical side.

For those who enjoy immersive experiences, the Mortuary Haunted House is one of the scariest in the country. Set in an old funeral home, the haunted house offers a chilling experience for thrill-seekers. From haunted history to modern scares, New Orleans provides a uniquely spirited and atmospheric Halloween experience.

4. Anoka, Minnesota

The town of Anoka, Minnesota, has been celebrating Halloween with gusto since the 1920s. This small town in the Midwest holds one of the oldest and largest Halloween parades in the country.

Anoka’s annual Halloween festival spans several weeks and includes everything from house-decorating contests to scarecrow competitions. The city hosts numerous parades, including the Grand Day Parade, which is filled with creative costumes, floats, and local bands. Other events include pumpkin carving contests, a Halloween ball, and a massive bonfire.

For families, the town offers plenty of kid-friendly activities such as trick-or-treating, craft fairs, and storytelling sessions. Anoka is the perfect destination for those who love a traditional and community-driven Halloween celebration.

5. Savannah, Georgia

With its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and storied past, Savannah, Georgia, is considered one of the most haunted cities in the U.S. It’s the ideal Halloween destination for anyone intrigued by ghost stories and paranormal activity.

Savannah offers a variety of ghost tours, ranging from walking tours of the historic district to haunted pub crawls where you can sip a drink while learning about the city's dark past. The Sorrel-Weed House, one of the most haunted locations in the city, offers nighttime tours that delve into Savannah’s eerie history.

During Halloween, the city hosts the Candlelight Cemetery Tours, which allow visitors to explore Savannah’s spooky cemeteries while hearing ghost stories and learning about the area’s most famous spirits. With its spooky charm and Southern hospitality, Savannah is an unforgettable Halloween destination.

6. Los Angeles, California

While Los Angeles is known for its entertainment industry, it’s also one of the best cities for Halloween enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of Halloween events and haunted attractions that cater to all ages and scare levels.

One of the most popular Halloween events is Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights, which features terrifying haunted houses based on popular horror movies. For a more family-friendly experience, the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride in Griffith Park provides a mix of spooky and fun activities for kids and adults alike.

West Hollywood’s Halloween Carnaval is one of the largest Halloween street parties in the country, attracting costumed revelers from all over. For those looking for an artsy spin on Halloween, L.A. is also home to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, which hosts film screenings and the Day of the Dead celebration, blending cultural traditions with Halloween fun.