Halloween is the season of thrills, chills, and spine-tingling fun, and in Texas, it’s no different. From haunted houses that promise to send you running for the exit to family-friendly pumpkin patches and eerie experiences, there’s something for everyone across the Lone Star State. Whether you’re a horror fan looking to face your fears or just want to enjoy a festive day out with the family, Texas offers an array of haunted attractions and spooky spots that will make this Halloween unforgettable.
Let’s explore the best haunted houses and eerie events from Dallas to San Antonio, plus some tips for making the most of your spooky season in Texas!
1. Thrillvania Haunted House Park – Dallas
Located in Terrell, just outside of Dallas, Thrillvania is one of the most well-known haunted house attractions in Texas, drawing thousands of visitors every Halloween season. With four separate attractions, including the legendary Terror Vision 3D and the haunted Skull Cave, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a heart-pounding scare.
- What Makes It Special: Thrillvania is renowned for its interactive experiences and highly detailed sets. The actors here are known for their impressive performances, and the high-intensity scares will leave you looking over your shoulder long after you leave. The park also features live entertainment and food stands to keep you fueled for more frights.
- Family-Friendly Option: While Thrillvania offers intense experiences, they also cater to younger audiences with a less scary Pumpkin Patch and family-friendly events throughout the month.
Tip: Buy tickets early, as Thrillvania sells out fast, especially on weekends closer to Halloween.
2. Screamfest – San Antonio
If you’re in San Antonio, Screamfest is one of the top destinations for Halloween thrills. This haunted attraction features a series of spooky mazes, including the famous House of Horrors, as well as frightening outdoor scare zones.
- What Makes It Special: Set in a sprawling, eerie location, Screamfest creates a cinematic experience with its intricate sets and Hollywood-style special effects. Expect to encounter everything from terrifying monsters to supernatural beings around every corner.
- Family-Friendly Option: Screamfest also has daytime events, such as a Pumpkin Patch and a spooky, not-so-scary maze that’s perfect for younger kids.
Tip: For an even spookier experience, attend the Nightmare Edition, where the intensity of the scares is ramped up to the maximum!
3. The Haunted Hotel – Austin
Located in Austin, The Haunted Hotel is known for its immersive haunted house experience. It combines suspense, horror, and a dash of humor, offering a balance of fear and fun. This attraction stands out for its creative sets and terrifying surprises.
- What Makes It Special: Unlike typical haunted houses, The Haunted Hotel leans into psychological horror, with unsettling surprises that stay with you long after you’ve left. Guests navigate through various themed rooms, including a disturbing asylum and a cursed hotel lobby.
- Family-Friendly Option: For families looking to enjoy some spooky fun without the extreme scares, The Haunted Hotel also hosts a Family Day, where younger guests can experience lighter versions of the frightful rooms and meet friendly monsters.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on the weekends when the hotel gets busy.
4. Zombie Safari – Fort Worth
If you’re looking for a different kind of thrill, Zombie Safari in Fort Worth will allow you to defend yourself from the undead! This outdoor, immersive experience involves taking a ride through a haunted safari, where you’ll be armed with paintball guns to defend against zombies as they approach your vehicle.
- What Makes It Special: Zombie Safari offers a unique, interactive scare experience. You’ll drive through the darkness, trying to fend off zombies that lurk in the shadows. The combination of paintball action and fright-filled tension sets this attraction apart from traditional haunted houses.
- Family-Friendly Option: While Zombie Safari may not be the ideal choice for small children, it’s perfect for teens and older kids who are looking for something more action-packed.
Tip: Wear dark clothing for better camouflage, and make sure to bring your best aim – the zombies won’t go down without a fight!
5. Dark Hour Haunted House – Plano
Known for its incredibly detailed sets and spine-chilling performances, Dark Hour Haunted House in Plano is a favorite among haunted house enthusiasts. The haunt is set in an old mansion, giving it a truly gothic, eerie atmosphere.
- What Makes It Special: Dark Hour is unique in that it has a well-developed storyline, which ties together all the different scare zones. Guests get to experience a complete narrative as they wander through the mansion’s halls, from creepy vintage rooms to terrifying basements. It’s like walking through a horror movie.
- Family-Friendly Option: Dark Hour hosts a “Not-So-Scary” Event for younger children, where they can explore the mansion in a safe, less intense environment.
Tip: If you’re a fan of horror-themed escape rooms, Dark Hour also offers escape room experiences during the off-season.
6. Pumpkin Patch Fun – Statewide
For those looking for a more family-friendly Halloween experience, Texas has a wide variety of pumpkin patches, many of which offer more than just pumpkins. From hayrides to corn mazes, these attractions are perfect for making memories with kids of all ages.
- Top Picks:
- Elgin’s Pumpkin Patch – Known for its massive pumpkin displays and fun fall activities, Elgin’s Pumpkin Patch in Central Texas is perfect for families.
- Blessington Farms (Sugar Land) – A short drive from Houston, Blessington Farms offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and even a petting zoo.
- The Pumpkin Village at Moody Gardens (Galveston) – A massive pumpkin display, perfect for Instagram photos and family-friendly activities.
Tip: Many pumpkin patches have additional activities like petting zoos, face painting, and seasonal treats, so check their websites for a full list of offerings.
7. Haunted Hikes – Statewide
For a more natural, spine-tingling experience, why not try a Haunted Hike at one of Texas’ many state parks? Locations like Big Bend and Garner State Park often offer haunted tours in October, where guides lead you through eerie trails while telling ghost stories and legends.
- What Makes It Special: These hikes offer a more atmospheric scare, combining the beauty of the Texas outdoors with a touch of spooky storytelling.
Tip: Bring a flashlight and comfortable shoes, as some hikes can be challenging at night.
Tips for Making the Most of Halloween in Texas
- Plan Ahead: Haunted houses can get crowded, especially on weekends. Arrive early to avoid long wait times, and consider purchasing fast-pass tickets if available.
- Check for Discounts: Many haunted houses offer discounts for group tickets or early-bird purchases. Be sure to check their websites for any promotions.
- Safety First: Many haunted attractions can be physically intense or involve dark spaces. Always follow the safety guidelines set by the venues, and don’t hesitate to ask staff for assistance if you have any concerns.
- Don’t Forget the Weather: October weather in Texas can vary. Be prepared for chilly nights and potentially warm days by dressing in layers and bringing sunscreen if you plan on attending daytime events.
Conclusion
Texas is home to a variety of haunted houses and spooky attractions that cater to all levels of thrill-seekers. From the heart-stopping thrills of Thrillvania in Dallas to the family-friendly fun at pumpkin patches across the state, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the Halloween spirit in 2024. So, gather your friends and family, grab your tickets early, and get ready to experience the spine-chilling magic of Halloween in Texas!
