Halloween in the United States is a thrilling celebration filled with haunted happenings, spooky parades, and fun things to do on Halloween with friends or family. If you’re looking for the ultimate Halloween adventure, these top destinations will provide you with everything from ghost tours to costume contests. Here are the best places to celebrate Halloween in America in 2024, whether you’re seeking cool things to do on Halloween at home.
Top Destinations to Celebrate Halloween Across America in 2024
Uncover the ultimate spots for Halloween fun in 2024. From spine-chilling attractions to festive events, these top destinations across America offer unforgettable experiences for a truly spooky celebration.
1. Anoka, Minnesota
Anoka holds the prestigious title of being the first city to host an official Halloween celebration in 1920, earning it the nickname “The Halloween Capital of the World.” This historic city goes all out with parades, haunted houses, and themed events that run throughout October, offering a fun and community-driven Halloween experience.
Things to do:
- Grand Day Parade: Witness an iconic Halloween parade with elaborate floats and costumed participants.
- Spooky House Tours: Explore the haunted houses and historical homes decked out for Halloween.
- Pumpkin Contests: Participate in or enjoy the artistic pumpkin carving and decorating contests.
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2. Salem, Massachusetts
Steeped in the dark history of the 1692 witch trials, Salem has embraced its reputation, becoming one of the most popular destinations for Halloween enthusiasts. The town transforms into a mecca of witchcraft, paranormal tours, and historical reenactments. Visitors can expect a full month of spooky events, haunted attractions, and fascinating history lessons.
Things to do:
- Salem Witch Museum: Dive into the history of the infamous witch trials with immersive exhibits.
- Ghost Tours: Walk through the eerie streets on a guided ghost tour and visit haunted spots.
- Haunted Happenings Festival: Enjoy a month-long celebration with parades, psychic fairs, and spooky shopping.
3. St. Helens, Oregon
Fans of the Disney movie Halloween town will recognize St. Helens, which transforms into the magical world from the film each year. This charming town turns into a Halloween wonderland with events tailored for both children and adults. It’s a whimsical place to experience nostalgia, magic, and plenty of Halloween fun.
Things to do:
- Halloween town Festival: Celebrate with themed activities, live entertainment, and festive décor inspired by the movie.
- Pumpkin Carving Contests: Show off your creative side or marvel at the intricately carved pumpkins.
- Haunted Hot Rod & Hearse Show: Check out spooky car displays with a Halloween twist.
4. Manitou Springs, Colorado
Located at the base of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs combines its scenic mountain setting with quirky, fun Halloween traditions. The town is known for its coffin races, where teams race decorated coffins down the main street, inspired by a local ghost legend. It’s a unique Halloween experience with an offbeat charm.
Things to do:
- Emma Crawford Coffin Races: Watch teams race coffins in one of the country’s most bizarre Halloween events.
- Ghosts of Old Manitou Tour: Discover the ghost stories and haunted sites around the town on a spooky walking tour.
- Haunted Miramont Castle: Explore the Victorian castle’s haunted rooms and hear about its eerie history.
5. Custer State Park, South Dakota
For those looking to combine Halloween with the great outdoors, Custer State Park offers a spooky, yet serene, retreat. This state park is renowned for its wildlife and scenic landscapes, but during Halloween, it transforms into an eerie getaway with haunted trails and night hikes. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a haunting adventure.
Things to do:
- Haunted Night Hikes: Embark on ghostly hikes through the park’s trails under the moonlight.
- Spooky Campfires: Join in for ghost stories and marshmallow roasting around a campfire.
- Creepy Wildlife Spotting: Take guided tours to spot the park’s native wildlife during the eeriest time of the year.
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6. Great Plains Zoo, Sioux Falls
The Great Plains Zoo hosts a family-friendly Halloween event known as Boo at the Zoo. This event is perfect for families with young children who want to experience Halloween in a safe and fun environment. The zoo is decked out in Halloween décor, and kids can trick-or-treat while seeing animals.
Things to do:
- Boo at the Zoo: Dress up in your favorite costume and collect treats while exploring the zoo.
- Spooky Animal Exhibits: Learn about nocturnal animals and see them in special Halloween-themed habitats.
- Costume Contests: Enter the costume contests and show off your creative Halloween looks.
7. Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls
Washington Pavilion provides a unique, cultural Halloween experience. Known for its combination of arts, science, and history, this venue offers special Halloween exhibits and activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. It’s a more educational yet fun way to celebrate the holiday.
Things to do:
- Halloween Art Exhibits: Explore art galleries featuring spooky Halloween-themed installations.
- Interactive Science Activities: Engage in Halloween-themed science experiments and activities.
- Spooky Film Screenings: Watch Halloween classics or spooky films in their historic theater.
8. Yankton
Yankton is an ideal destination for history lovers who want a hauntingly good time. The city’s historical architecture and riverside setting make it perfect for ghost tours and eerie walks. Halloween in Yankton is all about blending history with a bit of scare.
Things to do:
- Haunted Historical Tours: Walk through the town’s historic buildings and hear ghost stories.
- Spooky Riverfront Adventures: Enjoy eerie boat tours or riverside walks under the moonlight.
- Ghostly Storytelling Sessions: Listen to local legends and spooky tales from Yankton’s past.
9. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a prime destination for urban Halloween adventures. The city offers a mix of ghost tours, large street parties, and historical haunts, making it a great choice for those who want a bustling, diverse Halloween experience.
Things to do:
- Alcatraz Night Tour: Explore the notorious prison after dark and learn about its haunted history.
- Chinatown Ghost Tours: Uncover the mysteries and legends of San Francisco’s Chinatown.
- Halloween Street Parties: Join the city’s largest Halloween street celebrations, featuring music, costumes, and plenty of excitement.
10. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, with its rich history of voodoo, ghost stories, and vampire legends, is one of the most haunted cities in the U.S. Halloween here is a unique mix of spooky traditions, elaborate costumes, and vibrant nightlife. The city’s French Quarter comes alive with haunted tours and voodoo-inspired festivities.
Things to do:
- Krewe of Boo Parade: Experience the city’s annual Halloween parade with floats, costumes, and music.
- Haunted Ghost Tours: Explore the French Quarter’s haunted buildings and hear chilling tales.
- New Orleans Voodoo Music + Arts Experience: Immerse yourself in the cultural side of Halloween with live music and art exhibitions.
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Conclusion:
These destinations offer a wide variety of experiences for every Halloween lover. Whether you’re looking for spooky things to do on Halloween night, fun things to do with friends or unique activities at home, these cities will provide unforgettable memories for Halloween 2024. Make sure to book early with Crystal Travel to unlock exclusive deals and ensure you don’t miss out on any of these Spooktacular destinations!
FAQ’S
Q. What is the best place to visit for Halloween?
A. For history, visit Salem, Massachusetts; for classic fun, head to Anoka, Minnesota; or enjoy outdoor thrills at Custer State Park.
Q. What is the #1 Halloween town in the USA?
A. Salem, Massachusetts is considered the #1 Halloween town in the USA due to its rich witch trial history, month-long spooky events, and haunted attractions.
Q. Where is Halloween the best?
A. Halloween is best celebrated in iconic destinations like Anoka, Salem, New Orleans, and St. Helens, each offering unique spooky experiences and themed events.
Q. Why is Salem famous for Halloween?
A. Salem is famous for Halloween due to its dark history of the 1692 witch trials, making it a top destination for witchcraft, paranormal tours, and historical reenactments.
Q. Where is the Halloween capital of the USA?
A. Anoka, Minnesota, is known as the Halloween Capital of the USA, hosting the first official Halloween celebration in 1920.