10 Best Places to Visit for Halloween in 2025

Wondering where to go for Halloween? From spooky halloween towns in the US to haunted castles in Europe, this guide covers the best places to visit for Halloween in 2025.

Halloween is the perfect excuse to plan a trip that’s equal parts spooky and unforgettable. From haunted history tours to pumpkin-filled festivals, some popular Halloween destinations go far beyond carving jack-o’-lanterns.

I’ve celebrated Halloween everywhere from Hong Kong’s wild street parties to the eerie, cobblestone lanes of Edinburgh, and I can tell you—once you experience it in a place that truly embraces the season, you’ll never go back to just trick-or-treating at home.

In this guide, I’m sharing my picks for the best places to visit for Halloween—whether you’re dreaming of a warm October getaway, exploring a legendary Halloween town in the US, or planning a once-in-a-lifetime Halloween vacation abroad.

This blog post is all about the best places to visit for Halloween 

Where to Go for Halloween in 2025

The best places to visit for Halloween don’t just throw up a few cobwebs—they go all out. These towns and cities live and breathe spooky season, with ghost tours, candlelit parades, eerie legends, and community-wide celebrations that make October feel truly magical.

Whether you’re dreaming of haunted castles in Europe or festive Halloween towns in the US, here are 10 top spots to add to your Halloween travel list this year:

• Salem, Massachusetts – Witchy streets & Halloween magic
• Derry, Northern Ireland – Europe’s biggest Halloween festival
• Tokyo, Japan – Costumes, cafés & chaos
• Edinburgh, Scotland – Ghost tours & gothic charm
• Sleepy Hollow, New York – Headless Horseman & haunted legends
• Transylvania, Romania – Dracula’s Castle Halloween party
• New Orleans, Louisiana – Music, ghosts & voodoo
• London, England – Haunted history & autumn walks
• Oaxaca, Mexico – Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
• Anoka, Minnesota – Halloween Capital of the World

🍁 Bonus Tip: Not every October trip has to be filled with haunted houses and jump scares. If you’re more into cozy fall colors and harvest vibes, check out my guides to fall destinations in Asia or the best places in Japan for autumn leaves.

10 Best Places to Visit for Halloween

Want a quick look at some of the world’s spookiest spots? Here’s a short video highlighting the 10 best spooky places to visit for Halloween before we dive into all the details.

📌 Read Next: Top 10 Warm Winter Getaways for December Travelers

1. Salem, Massachusetts

When it comes to the best places to visit for Halloween in the USA, Salem is always near the top of the list—and for good reason.

Famous for the 1692 witch trials, this cozy New England town goes all out in October. Think spooky street performers, historic haunts, and a whole lot of witches.

If you’re planning a Halloween trip to Salem, here are a few must-dos to add to your list:

• Step inside the Salem Witch Museum and the hauntingly preserved Witch House
• Join a guided ghost tour (the creepier the better—especially if it ends in the old cemetery)
• Wander down Essex Street for costume shops, live performers, and festive chaos
• Snap a selfie with the iconic Bewitched statue
• Visit Ropes Mansion and other Hocus Pocus filming locations
• Book a table at Turner’s Seafood—locals say it’s haunted (and the food’s amazing)

🌙 Where I’d stay: The Hotel Salem – A stylish boutique hotel right in the heart of downtown. It’s modern, walkable to all the main sights, and the rooftop bar has great views of the Halloween buzz.

2. Derry, Northern Ireland

If you’re looking for the best places to visit for Halloween in Europe, Derry should be high on your list. This walled city in Northern Ireland throws one of the biggest and most magical Halloween festivals on the continent.

The whole town comes alive with fire shows, glowing art installations, haunted trails, and one epic costume parade that winds through the streets. What makes it even more special? Derry’s deep connection to Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival that inspired modern Halloween.

Best Things to Do in Derry for Halloween:

• Walk the glowing Awakening the Walled City trail after dark
• Watch the huge Halloween parade take over the streets
• Catch the fireworks show over the River Foyle
• Take a haunted history tour or visit the Tower Museum
• Warm up with live music and a pint in a cozy local pub

🏰 Where I’d stay: Bishop’s Gate Hotel – A gorgeous boutique stay in a restored heritage building inside the city walls. Elegant, central, and perfect for soaking up Derry’s spooky charm.

3. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo might not have ancient haunted castles, but it’s easily one of the most fun places to visit for Halloween—especially if you’re into elaborate costumes, themed cafés, and over-the-top events.

Even though the famous Shibuya Halloween street party was cancelled in 2024, the city still fully embraces spooky season. Expect pop-up shops, Halloween-themed snacks, and plenty of quirky fun.

You can browse for wild costumes in Harajuku or at Don Quijote, then grab dinner at the Vampire Café in Ginza. For a family-friendly option, head to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea for festive parades, decorations, and seasonal treats.

🎃 Where I’d stay: Tokyo Disneyland Hotel – A dreamy, themed hotel just steps from the park entrance. Spacious rooms, magical decor, and easy access to all the Halloween fun at Disney.

4. Edinburgh, Scotland

If you’re after spooky places to visit for Halloween with real haunted vibes, Edinburgh is hard to beat. From shadowy alleyways to eerie underground vaults, this city oozes gothic charm and centuries of ghostly tales.

For solo female travelers, Edinburgh is one of the easiest and safest cities in Europe to explore alone. You can wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town by day, join a ghost tour after dark, and still feel comfortable walking back to your accommodation.

Halloween Activities in Edinburgh:

• Take a ghost tour through the South Bridge vaults or Greyfriars Kirkyard
• Visit the Edinburgh Dungeon for a mix of history and theatrical scares
• Walk the Royal Mile at dusk for spooky stories and moody views
• Hop on the Harry Potter train (Jacobite Steam Train) for a magical day trip
• Explore the city’s historic closes and alleyways for hidden photo spots

🕯️ Where I’d stay: The Witchery by the Castle – Lavish, gothic suites right by Edinburgh Castle. It’s romantic, dramatic, and perfect for a Halloween stay you won’t forget.

5. Sleepy Hollow, New York

Just an hour north of NYC—one of my favorite solo female travel spots in the US—you’ll find Sleepy Hollow, one of the most iconic Halloween towns in America.

Known as the setting for The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, this charming village blends haunted history with peak fall colors for the ultimate October escape. It’s one of the best places to visit for Halloween on the East Coast, especially if you love glowing pumpkins, spooky legends, and small-town charm.

Halloween Fun in Sleepy Hollow:

• Catch a live performance of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow at the Old Dutch Church
• Walk through the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze—7,000+ glowing pumpkins and epic displays
• Explore Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and visit Washington Irving’s grave
• Sip pumpkin ale or grab cider donuts from a local farm stand
• Take a scenic drive or hike through the Hudson Valley for peak fall foliage

🍂 Where I’d stay: Tarrytown House Estate – A gorgeous historic property just minutes from all the Sleepy Hollow festivities. Think cozy fireplaces, autumn views, and old-world charm.

6. Transylvania, Romania

If you’ve ever dreamed of a Halloween trip to Transylvania, this is your sign. Bran Castle—often called Dracula’s Castle—is the star, hosting a massive Halloween party each October with torchlit tours, DJs, and incredible costumes.

Even if you skip the party, exploring the castle by day is unforgettable. The route winds through mountain roads, tiny villages, and centuries-old fortresses that feel straight out of legend.

For those wondering where to go for Halloween in Europe that offers more than haunted houses, Transylvania combines history, folklore, and breathtaking scenery into one unforgettable trip.

🧛 Heading abroad for Halloween? My guide on how to stop overpacking will help you fit costumes, props, and essentials into one bag. 

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit for Halloween in the United States, New Orleans absolutely delivers. This city mixes haunted history, voodoo culture, live jazz, and wild costumes into a full-on month of spooky fun.

The French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods light up with parades, ghost tours, and themed parties. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, it’s a Halloween trip you’ll never forget.

Halloween Fun in New Orleans:

• Take a haunted walking tour through the French Quarter or Garden District
• Visit the Voodoo Museum or stop by Marie Laveau’s tomb
• Check out the over-the-top decorations at the Skeleton House
• Dress up for a vampire masquerade or attend a Halloween ball
• Wander Frenchmen Street for spooky shops, local altars, and live music

🦴 Where I’d stay: Hotel Provincial – A charming vintage hotel in the French Quarter with a courtyard pool and rumored ghost sightings. It’s atmospheric, central, and just spooky enough for Halloween season.

8. London, England

London is one of my favorite cities in Europe—and definitely a top pick for spooky places to visit for Halloween in the UK.

Spend the day at the Tower of London or Highgate Cemetery. After dark, join a ghost walk or trace Jack the Ripper’s path through the East End. For something lighter, check out Halloween displays in Notting Hill or stroll Hyde Park for autumn leaves.

Whether you’re into haunted history, eerie legends, or just enjoy the seasonal vibe, London is one of the best Halloween destinations in Europe for mixing culture with festive spirit.

🕸️ Where I’d stay: Eccleston Square Hotel – A boutique hotel in a historic Georgian building with modern touches and a great location for exploring the city’s spooky spots.

9. Oaxaca, Mexico

If you’re wondering where to go for Halloween that goes beyond costumes and candy, Oaxaca is something truly special. While it’s not a traditional Halloween destination, the city comes alive for Día de los Muertos—a vibrant, heartfelt celebration honoring loved ones who’ve passed.

Expect candlelit processions, colorful altars, and music filling the streets late into the night. It’s one of the best places to visit for Halloween lovers who want culture, tradition, and festive energy all in one trip.

Things to Experience in Oaxaca during Día de los Muertos:

• Visit cemeteries at night to see families decorating graves with flowers and candles
• Join a comparsa (street parade) with costumes, music, and dancing
• Browse local markets for pan de muerto and sugar skulls—here’s my guide to eating alone if you’re exploring solo
• Admire the elaborate altars set up in homes and public spaces

💀 Where I’d stay: Casa Antonieta – A stylish boutique stay in the heart of the city. Beautiful design, friendly staff, and the perfect base for soaking up the celebrations.

10. Anoka, Minnesota

If you’re after fun places to visit for Halloween in the USA, head to Anoka, Minnesota—proudly known as the Halloween Capital of the World.

This small town has been celebrating Halloween since the 1920s, when locals started parades to keep kids out of trouble. Over a century later, it’s still going strong with weeks of family-friendly fun.

Expect costume contests, house-decorating competitions, pumpkin carving, light shows, and one of the biggest Halloween parades in the country. The entire town gets involved, and there’s a real sense of community behind all the spooky fun.

🎃 Where I’d stay: Ticknor Hill Bed and Breakfast – A cozy Victorian home turned B&B right in Anoka. With charming rooms, homemade breakfasts, and friendly hosts, it’s a perfect base for experiencing the town’s Halloween magic.

Spooky Halloween Towns in the US

Still deciding where to go for Halloween in the US? Along with the towns I’ve already mentioned, here are a few more festive spots worth adding to your October travel list:

• Chicago, Illinois – Learn about the city’s haunted history on the Ghosts & Gangsters walking tour along the Chicago River.
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Visit the historic Eastern State Penitentiary, which becomes a Halloween event space each October.
• Orlando, Florida – Experience Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, with themed haunted houses and seasonal entertainment.
• New Hope, Pennsylvania – This cozy town does fall right, with scarecrow displays, haunted train rides, and early autumn festivals.
• St. Helens, Oregon – The filming location for Halloweentown, hosting October-long events—more details at Spirit of Halloweentown.

These destinations prove you don’t have to travel far to find great places to visit for Halloween in the US. I haven’t made it to all of them yet, but they’re high on my list for future trips!

⭐ Bonus Tip: Don’t skip travel insurance—healthcare in the US is expensive! I use and recommend SafetyWing🛡️ for affordable, flexible coverage that keeps you protected wherever you go.

Map of the Best Places to Visit for Halloween (US & Beyond)

Looking for the top Halloween destinations in the US and around the world? This custom Google Map includes all the best places to visit for Halloween—haunted towns, spooky festivals, and eerie castles included.

Save it to your phone, zoom in on your must-sees, and start planning your perfect Halloween trip.

How to Plan a Halloween Trip You’ll Actually Enjoy

Ready to plan your Halloween getaway? Whether you’re booking a big trip to Transylvania or Edinburgh, or heading to smaller Halloween towns in the US, here are a few tips to help you make the most of it:

• Book early. Popular places like Salem, Derry, and Anoka fill up fast—especially hotels, haunted tours, and costume parties.
• Check event calendars. Not everything happens on October 31. Some festivals run all month, others are weekend-only. See official sites like Salem Haunted Happenings or Spirit of Halloweentown for updated schedules.
• Pack smart. Fall weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers—and if you’re visiting somewhere costume-friendly (like Tokyo or Oaxaca), don’t forget your outfit and accessories.
• Sort out transportation. Parking in Halloween hotspots can be tough. Look into shuttles, public transport, or walkable routes ahead of time.
• Be culturally mindful. In places like Oaxaca, Halloween overlaps with Día de los Muertos. Learn about the traditions, and participate respectfully.
• Budget for the fun stuff. From themed treats to souvenir shops and special event tickets, Halloween extras add up. Make sure you’ve got a little wiggle room to enjoy it all.

Need a rental car for your Halloween trip? I’ve used Discover Cars on a few of my adventures, and it’s a super easy way to compare prices across different providers. It’s especially helpful in places like Transylvania or Sleepy Hollow, where getting around without a car can be tricky.

👉 Check rental car prices on Discover Cars

FAQs: Best Places to Visit for Halloween

Now that we’ve explored some spook-tacular destinations, let’s quickly answer the most popular questions about the best places to visit for Halloween. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit for Halloween

That’s it—my full guide to the best spooky places to visit for Halloween. From small-town charm in Sleepy Hollow and Anoka to haunted castles in Europe and the vibrant Día de los Muertos celebrations in Oaxaca, I hope this helped you pick your perfect October getaway.

If you’re planning ahead for other seasons, check out my guides to winter destinations in Asia and summer bucket list ideas. There’s plenty of inspiration for every time of year.

Where would you love to go for Halloween in 2025? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s on your list!

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