The arrival of fall is easily distinguished by the color changing leaves, pumpkin spice lattes and colorful wool sweaters. But as much as the cozy ambience of the season has its place, so does the spooky side brought by Halloween — and what better way to honor this than with an immersive spine-chilling experience? For some inspiration, explore these popular Bay Area haunted attractions.
Looking for more of the cozy side after all? Check out these local pumpkin patches.
Feature Photo: Winchester Mystery House on Facebook
335 Powell St, San Francisco
The Westin San Francisco has their doors open for a few spooky experiences this Halloween season. Those that are feeling especially brave can stay a night in their haunted suite, complete with eerie decor, a keepsake tarot deck and a Ouija board provided in the room for connecting to the spirit realm – if you dare.
For something a little less real but still equally thrilling, they’re also hosting a Murder Mystery Dinner. This interactive experience will be the ultimate “whodunnit” night that’s complemented by a tasty three-course meal and handcrafted cocktails.
Dinner takes place on Oct. 24, starting at 7 p.m.
200 Edenvale Avenue, San Jose
For something a little less scary and a little more cute, take your pup to the Hayes Mansion Howl-O-Ween Yappy Hour & Costume Parade. Treats will be available for both you and your four-legged pal. Takes place on Oct. 24 from 5-6:30 p.m.
They’re also hosting a complimentary Howl-O-Ween Movie Night under the stars on their East Lawn. Pets are welcome and there will be popcorn, drinks, candy and even pup cups available for purchase. See their website for updates on ticket availability. Takes place on Oct. 24 from 7-9 p.m.
525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose
To take the already eerie appeal of the Winchester Mystery House a step further, Festival Fright Nights will transport back into the 1920s for a series of immersive spooks. Partake in the VIP Masquerade Ball, and indulge in the three-act main attraction. There’s also some additional experiences available, such as one that brings you into the house’s underground areas for a terrifyingly fun excursion. Sept. 26 through Oct. 31.
88 5th St, San Francisco
This year, Terror Vault presents Hexed, an experience that centers a coven of three witches and their dark journey. You’re invited to join the thrills with their hour-long, immersive and interactive experience. Select availability until Nov. 1.
The Palace Theater, 644 Broadway, San Francisco
The Palace Theater has become the dark and twisted Black Cat Hotel, with a creepy vintage ambience. The experience lasts almost an hour, and will take you through plenty of rooms ranging from jazz parlors to haunted hotel rooms. Open from Oct. 8 to Nov. 1.
41 Tunnel Rd, Berkeley
This Halloween experience leans into the many year-round rumors about the hotel being haunted. From behind-the-scenes looks, access into some generally restricted areas and a visit to the hotel’s most haunted room, the Claremont’s tours will give guests a chance to learn about their history in a festive — and spooky — manner. Available on Fridays and Saturdays between Oct.3-25, plus a special tour on Halloween.
2086 Newpark Mall, Newark
There are two haunted house attractions at the Scream Park: the Ravenwood Sanitarium and the Geargrind Labyrinth. Each has its own backstory and set of scares, but both create a scary and immersive experience. Open from Sept. 20 to Nov. 2, with select availability.
98 Santa Rosa Plaza, Santa Rosa
In this 20,000-square-foot Santa Rosa haunted attraction, Blind Scream’s Scream Your Head Off transports visitors into a creepy carnival with plenty of characters and immers With all the sights and actors to make it feel real, expect a spooky time. Open on select days through the end of October.
