Every couple has a different way to keep things interesting and exciting. Or at least we can try, right? For my husband and me, one of our tricks for having fun as a couple is to treat ourselves to a haunted date night around Boston during the month of October. (See what I did there?)
If you’re a fan of horror movies or Halloween generally, I highly recommend planning a date to one of these Boston-area haunted spots this spooky season. You’ll laugh, jump into each other’s arms, scream, and make some core memories for sure. And who knows, it could be the start of a new annual tradition!
Hysteria at Connor’s Farm :: Danvers, MA
This spooky spot is my all-time favorite. Located at Connor’s Farm, it was voted scariest haunted house by Boston.com last year, so it’s not for the faint of heart!
The haunted “house” is actually an outdoor walking trail where you’ll experience a variety of different ambiances throughout the 45-minute adventure. Because this is a very popular seasonal attraction and it is close to Salem, you may spend a good amount of time in line. Buy your tickets online if you can (although they do sell tickets on site as well). Friday nights are best if you want to try for a shorter wait time. There’s also a VIP pass you can purchase to skip the line.
Once you’re out of the haunted fields, you can stick around for music, bonfires, and some food options at Connor’s Farm.
Barrett’s Haunted Mansion :: Abington, MA
Located on the property of the Abington Ale House, this is a legendary spooky season attraction. Barrett’s Haunted Mansion is two attractions in one, and the $40 ticket includes an indoor tour and an open-air experience. (I recommend you purchase your tickets online in advance — they do sell out!)
The indoor attraction, “Cursed,” takes you through the actual haunted mansion. Depending on the night of your visit, your “tour” may include physical contact, which is not for everyone. Please plan ahead and avoid those special event nights if separation from your partner or physical contact is not something you want to experience!
The outdoor attraction, “Condemned,” was recently redesigned, and it looks like a really fun and scary part of the experience! Condemned also has special events that include physical contact and separation, so check the calendar and plan ahead!
Enjoy dinner before or after your tour at the Ale House restaurant on site.
Factory of Terror :: Fall River, MA
The Factory of Terror has been around for about 27 years and underwent its largest redesign in advance of the 2023 season, so it should not disappoint!
Factory of Terror remains open through the second weekend in November for those who want a post-Halloween thrill! Heads up — the November 10 and 11 shows are called “Extreme Fears” and are not for you if you don’t want to be touched, grabbed, restrained, or really, really scared! If that’s your cup of tea, get your tickets now, as they will sell out.
Other spooky and fun options:
Monster Mash Scream Park at McRay’s Farm :: South Hadley, MA
Screemfest at Canobie Lake Park :: Salem, NH
Fright Fest at Six Flags New England :: Agawam, MA
Haunted Overload at DeMerritt Hill Farm :: Lee, NH
Note that we did not include any haunted attractions in Salem, MA. Salem has lots of spooky fun for all ages — but there are also lots of crowds that many prefer to avoid during the month of October.
