7 haunted locations perfect for a Halloween getaway

For countless individuals across the globe, the arrival of autumn signifies one thing: Halloween.

Many trace the origins of this festive occasion to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, translating to "the end of summer." During this time, people donned costumes to honor the harvest and repel evil spirits, which they believed were more active during this season.

Moreover, in A.D. 837, Pope Gregory IV formally established November 1 as All Saints' Day, leading various cultures to start celebrating All Hallows' Eve on the evening before. Across the world, autumn traditions endure, with celebrations like Teng Chieh in China and Dia de los Muertos in Mexico and other Latin American nations.

While numerous places offer Halloween festivities, some locations truly elevate the experience.

From pumpkin-carving contests and festive gatherings to haunted woods and spooky attractions, here are some destinations in the U.S. and beyond bursting with Halloween spirit.

Salem, Massachusetts

The notorious witch trials of 1692 have made Salem one of the eeriest cities in the world. Throughout the year, visitors can explore haunted locations like the Witch House, the House of the Seven Gables, Proctor's Ledge, and Howard Street Cemetery.

Each October, this historic New England town embraces its intriguing past with Halloween celebrations that last the whole month. Events include parades (featuring a special pet parade), movie nights, a costume ball, ghost tours, haunted attractions, as well as live music and theater performances. Check out Salem's event website for daily activity updates.

Strolling through the historic streets of the city and exploring enchanting shops can easily set the Halloween atmosphere. You can find magical items—like herbs, crystals, and spell kits—at Crow Haven Corner or HausWitch Home + Healing. Plus, you can purchase your very own wand at Wynott Wands.

Accommodation Options

For around $550 per night, you can stay in the heart of downtown Salem at the Hampton Inn Salem Boston. Alternatively, save money by using 70,000 Hilton Honors points for a standard room each night.

Another option is the Boston Marriott Peabody, located about a 15-minute drive from downtown Salem. In October, rooms here start at approximately $260 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for a standard stay.

New Orleans

Many people recognize New Orleans for its lively Mardi Gras celebrations in spring. However, the city's Halloween festivities also attract large crowds.

The Big Easy boasts a haunted past, featuring numerous above-ground cemeteries where it’s believed that spirits linger, inspiring tales of vampires and folklore.

Among its most haunted locations are Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, where patrons have reported sightings of pirate ghosts and a mysterious woman in black, and St. Louis Cathedral, where the ghost of a 1700s pastor is said to wander.

Residents embrace the city's eerie charm through Halloween parades, zombie runs, and lively street parties. New Orleans Voodoo—a nature- and spirit-based folk religion rooted in West Africa—plays a significant role in the local culture. Voodoo shops in the area offer unique items designed to cleanse homes and ward off spirits.

For a complete supernatural experience, embark on a ghost tour through the French Quarter to explore haunted houses, and then visit one of the many costume shops to gear up for the celebrations. Most events take place from October 19 to October 31.

Accommodation Options

The city is home to numerous Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt locations, offering plenty of opportunities for point redemption.

Adventurous Omni Select Guest members can utilize free night certificates to enjoy a stay at the opulent Omni Royal Orleans—one of the city's reputedly haunted hotels. (Some guests have shared experiences of encountering friendly spirits during their visit.) Cash rates here begin at around $200 per night.

For those looking to earn or redeem points while in New Orleans, consider the JW Marriott New Orleans, where October rates start at approximately 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $240 per night. Other excellent choices include The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton, for about 40,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points (or $200 to $300) per night, and Hotel Indigo New Orleans — French Quarter, available for as low as 18,000 IHG One Rewards points (or roughly $100) per night.

Sleepy Hollow, New York

This town gained fame through Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," a renowned tale featuring the fearsome Headless Horseman. The haunting landscape that inspired Irving serves as the perfect backdrop for a variety of Halloween events throughout October.

On select dates, visitors can join the Octagon House Myths and Mysteries Tour, which guides them through the allegedly haunted residence mentioned in Irving's story.

The highlight of the season is Hulda's Night at Rockefeller State Park Preserve. Bring a lantern and delve into the woods with a guide for an evening filled with spine-chilling stories and folklore. This year's event will take place from October 18-21 and from October 25-28.

You can embark on a self-guided tour of Lyndhurst Mansion—a spooky Gothic Revival-style estate that has served as a filming location for many horror movies—on October 21, 22, 28, and 29. Savor orange and black cookies, cider doughnuts, and apple cider after your visit to the house, which will be beautifully decorated for Halloween. Another highlight is the Tarrytown Halloween Parade on October 28, featuring refreshments, live music, and performances.

Accommodation Options

Earn or use points during your Halloween getaway by booking a stay at a nearby points-eligible hotel. The SpringHill Suites Tarrytown Westchester County is a solid choice at 32,000 Marriott Bonvoy points (or $200) per night; it’s located about 2 miles from Sleepy Hollow.

Buena Park, California

Just a short drive from Disneyland, Buena Park is home to one of California's most beloved amusement parks: Knott's Berry Farm. Both parks host fantastic Halloween celebrations suitable for the entire family.

If you're traveling to Southern California with young children, think about celebrating Halloween at Disneyland. From September 1 to October 31, the park offers seasonal events including fireworks shows, special performances, and a pumpkin festival. Many favorite rides get a spooky makeover, and Disneyland characters don their best autumn outfits.

Every autumn, Knott's Berry Farm becomes Knott's Scary Farm. Special Halloween events feature over 1,000 costumed performers ready to shock and frighten you. Guests can navigate haunted mazes and enjoy Halloween-themed shows. The event runs on select dates from September 21 to October 31. Note that this experience is not suitable for children under 13 due to its frightening content.

Accommodation Options

During your stay, reduce amusement park entry costs by choosing one of the points-eligible hotels in the vicinity. You can stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Buena Park for $192 or 45,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Alternatively, book a room at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Anaheim North/Buena Park for $146 or 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

London

With its Gothic churches, ancient castles, dimly lit alleyways, and historic streets, London offers an atmosphere that perfectly suits Halloween celebrations.

London offers a diverse range of events every year in the lead-up to Halloween. This year, visitors can explore the city’s tombs, embark on a spooky river cruise, or visit dungeons. Unleash your inner witch or wizard on The Making of "Harry Potter" tour at the Warner Bros. studio.

Seeking something even spookier? Check out London's haunted attractions, including Hampton Court Palace, where the ghost of Henry VIII's fifth wife is said to roam. Plus, there are numerous Halloween parties at clubs throughout the city, so don’t forget to bring your best costume.

Accommodation Options

London is filled with points-eligible hotels to help ease your travel expenses. Consider staying at the Residence Inn London Tower Bridge, with rates starting from $255 or 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. For a more luxurious experience, indulge in a stay at the Conrad London St. James, where room rates begin at around $500 or 200,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Derry, Northern Ireland

Also referred to as Londonderry, this city situated on the River Foyle is famous for its well-preserved 17th-century Derry's Walls, which feature seven gates. It is also home to Europe’s largest Halloween celebration.

Derry Halloween started in 1985 as a traditional Celtic Samhain festival. It has since evolved into a grand event that includes art fairs, costume contests, parades, musical performances, storytelling sessions, haunted houses, food trucks, and much more.

The free festival attracts thousands of visitors each year. While some activities may be spookier than others, the celebration is designed to be family-friendly. This year, Derry Halloween will take place from October 28 to 31.

Accommodation Options

If you want to be close to the festivities, consider using IHG One Rewards points to book a stay at the Holiday Inn Express Derry — Londonderry for 45,000 points (or $179) per night. Alternatively, you can stay on the outskirts of downtown by using Best Western Rewards points at the Best Western Plus White Horse Hotel, where rates start at 28,000 points (or $155) per night.

Transylvania, Romania

Halloween in Transylvania focuses less on parties and more on exploring the region's historic and haunted sites.

One of the main attractions here is Bran Castle. This 14th-century fortress, perched on a mountainside, is rumored to have been the home of Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the legendary tales of Count Dracula.

The castle is open for tours throughout the year, allowing visitors to wander through its numerous tunnels and eerie corners with a guide. If you wish to visit for the Halloween celebration (scheduled for October 28 this year), you can book daytime or nighttime tickets here.

Combo tickets for the Halloween festivities include a special tour and a party featuring a DJ. You can also choose The Count Special Guest ticket, which provides a four-course dinner and wine at Queen Marie's Tea House. On other days, tickets to the castle can be purchased online, or you can book a formal tour departing from Bucharest, the capital city.

If you're visiting with children, the castle offers a more family-friendly Halloween event on October 29.

Other thrilling attractions in Transylvania include Corvin Castle — one of the largest castles in Europe, where Vlad the Impaler is rumored to have been imprisoned for seven years — and Teleki Mansion, which is said to be haunted by a ghost.

The eerie Hoia Baciu Forest, featured in an episode of "Ghost Adventures," is another frightening site; it is believed that spirits inhabit the twisted trees of this forest, so proceed with caution. These attractions are within a few hours' drive from each other, making it advantageous to rent a car or book a guided tour for easier exploration.

Accommodation Options

If you’re planning to stay in Bucharest, consider using Marriott Bonvoy points to book a room at The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection for 26,000 points (or $150) per night. If you prefer to be in the Transylvania region, you can redeem Hilton Honors points at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sighisoara — Cavaler for 18,000 points (or $70) per night.