The Halloween Capitals Of The USA

Boo! We are already in the mood for Halloween, we have our list of scary movies to check off, pumpkin-flavored hummus in our fridge (for some reason), and are starting to map up all of our upcoming October escapades. Whether you are looking for a sparkling city of wonder to dazzle the kids or more low-key yet terrifying destinations with chilling histories- we have the most frightening and magical spots lined up for you. The USA takes Halloween incredibly seriously, and these spots do it like no other, whether it’s a trick or a treat.

Amityville, New York, Estes Park, Anoka, New Orleans, Salem, Sleepy Hollow

• Amityville in New York, United States

  
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  Home to America’s most beloved *cough* terrifying haunted houses, Amityville is a more off-the-beaten-path spot that is just oozing with tricks and treats to uncover. Monster balls, spooky attractions, a chilling history, and more, visit this mysterious town for a night to remember.

• New York, United States

  
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  Rocky Horror Picture showings, a new Halloween party every night, Tim Burton-themed bars, and haunted destinations around every corner of the historical town, we suggest the big apple for a candied Halloween full of glitz, glam, and camp. Check out The Village Halloween parade for a ghoulish display, try out The Beetle House for Haunted bites and spooky drinks, and enjoy a memorable October.

• Estes Park, United States

  
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  Estes Park’s The Stanley Hotel may not be your first thought for a Halloween getaway but its history of being the famed haunted hotel of Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining puts an icy glaze over the wilderness destination. For those with a taste for old charm, untouched terrain, fall nature exploration, and a cozy yet spooky housing situation, consider this iconic spot.

• Anoka, United States

  
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  Scarecrow competitions, haunted houses, a general eerieness lingering in the air of month-long Halloween festivities. Anoka *is* the Halloween capital of the USA, the first city in the country to have a Halloween celebration way back in 1920, and since has worn this title with pride. There is a massive blinking pumpkin on top of the city hall, and plenty of eclectic events popping up throughout October in what is normally considered a small, off-the-beaten-path Minnesota town.

• New Orleans, United States

  
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  New Orleans is famous for some of the best food in the country, old French architecture, and a lifestyle full of pizzaz, but the old roads of the city echo whispers of ghosts, witches, and scary happenings that linger to this day. Embrace the magical Halloween celebrations of New Orleans that transform the entire fall season into one of partying, tour old haunted buildings and hotels, and enjoy crispy beignets every morning at this gorgeous destination.

• Salem, United States

  
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  With the ominous history of the Salem Witch Trials looming throughout the otherwise quaint Massachusetts city, Salem attracts spook hunters from across the planet yearly. Halloween in Salem illuminates in a celebration of witchcraft, food, and festivities. October is a month-long extravaganza of haunted dances, banquets, festivals, and more.

• Sleepy Hollow in New York, United States

  
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  With gothic mansions, sickly cool air, and spooky history, it’s no wonder Sleepy Hollow is considered one of the most popular destinations for Halloween-time fun… and fear. The city knows its reputation, famed from William Irving’s chilling story of pumpkin-headed villagers and long winding roads, the residents of Sleepy Hollow embrace Halloween with a certain spark that’s hard to find elsewhere. With festivities all month long, special hotel and restaurant specials, and vibrant energy glimmering throughout the quaint town, Sleepy Hollow is an excellent October destination.