Halloween is a time when towns across the U.S. come alive with haunted houses, eerie history tours, and festivals celebrating all things spooky. From ghostly legends to time-honored traditions, some places elevate the Halloween spirit to a whole new level. Whether you're after haunted history or vibrant celebrations, here’s a list of the best towns in the U.S. to visit for Halloween, based on their spooky attractions and ghost stories.

Salem, MA: The Halloween Capital

Attractions & History: Salem, infamous for its 1692 witch trials, is one of the most iconic Halloween destinations in the U.S. During October, the town transforms into a hub for all things supernatural, with events like the Salem Haunted Happenings drawing crowds. Ghost tours take visitors through eerie historical sites, such as the Witch House, where real trials occurred. Salem's combination of chilling history, costumed parades, and a range of haunted experiences make it perfect for those who want a deeper connection to Halloween's darker roots.

Don't Miss: Take a candlelit ghost tour and visit The Burying Point Cemetery, where trial-era graves rest in peace, or head to The Salem Witch Museum to learn about the paranoia that led to the witch hunts.

New Orleans, LA: Haunts and Voodoo Legends

Attractions & History: New Orleans has long been a city known for its voodoo, vampires, and haunted houses. The French Quarter is home to centuries-old legends of restless spirits. Explore the dark side of the city with a haunted history walking tour, where you'll hear stories of Marie Laveau, the voodoo queen, or visit the LaLaurie Mansion, widely regarded as one of the most haunted places in the U.S. With its unique mix of voodoo traditions and Gothic architecture, New Orleans is a captivating destination for Halloween.

Don't Miss: Experience the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience or embark on a night ghost tour to dive deep into the eerie lore of New Orleans’ haunted past.

Savannah, GA: Southern Gothic Ghosts

Attractions & History: Savannah is often considered one of the most haunted cities in the country, with its oak-lined streets and antebellum mansions that echo with tales of restless spirits. The city offers numerous haunted tours, including stops at the notoriously haunted Hamilton-Turner Inn and the Bonaventure Cemetery. Savannah’s haunted history combined with its well-preserved Southern charm makes it a picturesque yet spooky Halloween destination.

Don't Miss: Take a trolley ghost tour through Savannah’s historic district, or visit Moon River Brewing Company, a former hotel with a dark history and frequent paranormal activity.

Sleepy Hollow, NY: The Legend Comes to Life

Attractions & History: Immortalized by Washington Irving’s tale of the Headless Horseman, Sleepy Hollow offers visitors the chance to step into the world of haunted folklore. During Halloween season, the town is filled with festivals, parades, and dramatic reenactments of the famous story. Take a lantern-lit tour through the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Irving himself is buried, or visit the historic Philipsburg Manor, which hosts eerie theatrical performances.

Don't Miss: Don't forget to check out Horseman’s Hollow, an immersive haunted experience based on the legend, or visit the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, featuring thousands of intricately carved pumpkins.

Las Vegas, NV: Sin City’s Spooky Side

Attractions & History: While Las Vegas may be best known for its casinos and nightlife, it also boasts an exciting Halloween scene. From the haunted experiences at Freakling Bros. Trilogy of Terror to the ghostly past of the Mob Museum, Las Vegas has a unique way of celebrating Halloween. The haunted history of the city includes tales of haunted hotels and mobsters' revenge, making it a thrilling destination for Halloween enthusiasts.

Don't Miss: Visit Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum, home to some of the world’s most infamous haunted objects, or enjoy the elaborate Fright Dome at Circus Circus.

Anoka, MN: Halloween Inc.

Attractions & History: Anoka proudly claims the title of the “Halloween Capital of the World” and is known for its family-friendly parades, pumpkin contests, and haunted attractions. The town has embraced its spooky reputation since 1920, making it one of the oldest Halloween celebrations in the U.S. Anoka’s rich tradition includes a grand parade, costume contests, and haunted house tours.

Don't Miss: Don’t miss the annual Halloween Parade, one of the longest-running in the nation, or visit the Anoka Haunted House, a local tradition for over 30 years.

Orlando, FL: Halloween Horror Nights and Mickey Mouse

St. Helens, OR: Halloween Town on the West Coast

Attractions & History: St. Helens, a small town in Oregon, transforms into Halloween Town every October, inspired by the cult classic Disney movie filmed there, Halloweentown. The entire town gets into the spirit with festive decorations, a pumpkin lighting ceremony, and spooky events. Beyond the film connection, the town has its share of ghost stories, making it a charming and unique destination for Halloween.

Don't Miss: Attend the Spirit of Halloweentown Festival, a month-long event featuring haunted tours, costume parties, and a giant pumpkin lighting.

Lexington, KY: Horse Country with Haunted Tales and Thriller Dances

Attractions & History: Lexington is famous for its horse farms, but it’s also a city rich with haunted history. The Loudoun House, a Gothic Revival mansion, is said to be home to several spirits, while The Lexington Opera House has long been rumored to have its own ghostly residents. Visitors can explore Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate, where eerie happenings have been reported, or venture into the surrounding countryside for haunted tours of horse farms and Civil War sites.

One of Lexington’s standout Halloween events is the annual Thriller Parade, inspired by Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” video. Hundreds of zombies flood downtown Lexington, dancing their way through the streets. This ghoulish spectacle is a must-see for both locals and visitors, as it brings a fun, high-energy twist to the Halloween festivities.

Don't Miss: For a unique experience, join the Lexington Ghost Walk to explore the city’s haunted downtown, or check out the Waveland State Historic Site, where Civil War-era ghosts reportedly still linger. And of course, don’t miss the chance to see (or even participate in!) the famous Thriller Parade as zombies take over the city.