As long as there are bold explorers, the travel industry will continue to come up with new trends. There is a new travel craze, dubbed “scream tourism,” that takes thrill-seekers on a journey to the most remote regions. haunted and gruesome destinations across the United States. These places guarantee real terror to historic haunted houses and other immersive horror experiences all year round. Let's explore the top 10 spooky destinations for scream tourism in the United States.
Talon Falls Screampark – Paducah/Melber, Kentucky
Set in the eerie woods of Kentucky, Talon Falls Screampark has been delivering top-notch scares for over 25 years. This massive 50-acre horror playground includes several themed attractions. Guests enjoy the main haunt of Talon Falls, the Blood Creek Haunted Hayride, and the Carnival of Evil. The park's reputation for intense, immersive experiences even inspired a horror film of the same name.
Kersey Valley SpookyWoods – Greensboro/High Point, NC
Kersey Valley SpookyWoods has been terrorizing visitors for more than four decades, making it one of America's premier haunted attractions. This sprawling 50-acre nightmare features more than 22 breathtaking attractions, including the infamous Camp Crystal Lake and the spooky ICONS experience. With Hollywood-level special effects and meticulously designed sets, SpookyWoods delivers an unprecedented horror experience.
The Terror Factory – Canton, Ohio
Holding the Guinness World Record for longest indoor haunted attraction, the Terror Factory in Canton, Ohio is a must-visit for any screaming tourist. This massive lair stretches for over a mile and includes five terrifying sections, including The Abandoned Asylum of Dr. Morbidius and Industrial Nightmare. With its breathtaking special effects, it's no surprise that thrill-seekers flock to it. ultimate haunted experience.
The Beast and the Edge of Hell – Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is home to not one but two legendary haunted attractions. The Beast, known for its open format and imposing six-story building, offers a choose-your-own-adventure style of terror. Just a few blocks away, Edge of Hell is celebrating its 50th season as America's longest-running commercial haunted house. Scream Tourists can experience both for an unforgettable night of horror.
The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park – San Diego, California
For those who prefer to be scared under the stars, the Haunted Trail at Balboa Park in San Diego offers a unique outdoor terror experience. Travel the dark, winding trails of Balboa Park, encountering horrifying creatures and jaw-dropping scares along the way. This mile-long trail of terror has become a favored choice for screaming tourists visiting the West Coast.
Eastern State Penitentiary – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
For a dose of real-life horror, visit the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia. This former prison, which once housed notorious criminals like Al Capone, now offers historical daytime tours and the seasonal “Halloween Nights” event. The ruined cell blocks and eerie atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for a truly haunting experience.
Salem, Massachusetts
No list of spooky destinations would be complete without mentioning Salem, the site of the infamous witch trials. This historic town has many haunted attractions, including the Salem Witch Museum, ghost tours, and the annual Festival of the Dead. With more than 1.2 million visitors during the Halloween season alone, Salem is a mecca for scream tourism.
The Lizzie Borden House – Fall River, Massachusetts
True crime buffs won't want to miss the Lizzie Borden House in Fall River, Massachusetts. This bed and breakfast and museum is the site of the horrific Borden family murders. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in ghost hunts, or even spend the night in the very rooms where the crimes took place.
The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Lovers of literature and cinema will recognize that the Stanley Hotel inspired Stephen King's “The Shining”. This historic hotel offers ghost tours, a hedge maze, and even a “spiritual night tour” for those brave enough to explore after dark. With its stunning mountain views and rich paranormal history, the Stanley Hotel is a must-visit destination for screaming tourists.
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios – Orlando, Florida and Hollywood, California
For those who prefer a scream experience with a side of Hollywood magic, Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando and Hollywood offer world-class haunted experiences. Both spots feature elaborately themed houses, scare zones, and live entertainment based on famous horror franchises.
