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I don't know about you, but with the change of season, always comes the need to learn and explore somewhere new. And while I personally love going to spooky events like Mickey's Not So Scary - there's something magical about spending some time in spooky spots around America. Across the United States, there are destinations that come alive with tales of witches, ghosts, and haunted histories during the spookiest time of the year. From the infamous Salem witch trials to the voodoo charm of New Orleans, let's explore five captivating locations that will add a touch of magic to your fall adventures!
Salem, Massachusetts: No spooky season exploration is complete without a visit to Salem. DUH! This is the inspiration for countless works of literature and theatre such as Arthur Miller's The Crucible, the location of Hocus Pocus, Paranorman, Scooby Doo and the Witches Ghost and tons of other pop culture moments. Known for its dark history of witch trials in the late 17th century, Salem now embraces its bewitching past. Immerse yourself in the witchcraft culture, explore the Witch House Museum, and wander through the haunted streets of this historic town. Don't miss the Salem Witch Museum, which sheds light on the trials and the supernatural lore that still captures our imaginations today.
Vibes: Historic, Enigmatic, Witchy, Mysterious, Charming
Top Spots: The Salem Witch Museum, The House of the Seven Gables, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Peabody Essex Museum, Salem Witch Trials Memorial
Food: New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll, Salem also boasts a vibrant dining scene with a wide variety of cuisines beyond traditional New England fare. Visitors can explore options ranging from international cuisines like Italian, Mexican, and Asian to vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, ensuring there is something to suit every taste and preference.
What to Watch before Going: The Crucible, Salem (2014 TV Show) on Hulu, Hocus Pocus (Disney+), The VVitch (HBO), Practical Magic (rent on Amazon).
New Orleans, Louisiana: Nothing yells spooky and sensual vampire like New Orleans. Did I watch Interview with a Vampire a lot growing up? Yes. Did that make me instantly think this was the perfect city for a vampire? Yes. And later in life, watching True Blood and The Originals (the Vampire Diaries spin off) solidified the idea. So why not venture down to the enchanting city of New Orleans, where history, mystery, and voodoo intertwine. Explore the atmospheric French Quarter, adorned with elegant architecture and hidden courtyards. Take a guided ghost tour through the city's haunted streets, visit the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of voodoo. The rich cultural heritage and spectral tales of New Orleans make it an ideal destination for those seeking a captivating and otherworldly experience.
Vibes: Lively, Vibrant, Sultry, Mystical, Eclectic
Top Spots: French Quarter Ghost Tours, LaLaurie Mansion, Voodoo Authentica, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, The Mortuary Haunted House
Food: Gumbo, Jambalaya, Po' Boy Sandwiches, Beignets. New Orleans' cuisine is incredibly diverse and full of unique flavors. From savory to sweet, spicy to soulful, these dishes represent just a glimpse of the culinary delights that await in the city. Don't forget to also explore local seafood specialties like boiled crawfish, oysters Rockefeller, and shrimp and grits, and indulge in delightful treats like pralines and bread pudding with whiskey sauce.
What to Watch before Going: the new Haunted Mansion (in theatres July 28), Interview with a Vampire (the 1994 isn't streaming but the new 2023 show is on Amazon Prime), True Blood (HBO), Princess and the Frog (Disney+), The Skeleton Key (Rent on Amazon Prime).
Sleepy Hollow, New York: The one and only home to the Headless Horshman! Nestled in the Hudson Valley, Sleepy Hollow is synonymous with Washington Irving's iconic tale, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Visit the Old Dutch Church, where the Headless Horseman is said to have chased Ichabod Crane. Explore the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, final resting place of Washington Irving himself, and marvel at the haunting beauty of its autumn landscape. Be sure to attend the annual Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze, a mesmerizing display of thousands of intricately carved pumpkins.
Vibes: Historic, Mysterious, Enchanting, Haunting, Autumnal
Top Spots: Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Philipsburg Manor, Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow, Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, The Headless Horseman Bridge
Food: New England Clam Chowder, Apple Cider Donuts. Don't forget to explore local farmers' markets and artisanal shops, where you can find a variety of fresh and locally made products, including cheeses, jams, honey, and baked goods. Sleepy Hollow offers a range of culinary delights that celebrate the flavors of the season and the charming ambiance of this historic village.
What to Watch before Going: Sleepy Hollow (1999 - Tim Burton on Hulu), The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (Disney+), The Hollow (Netflix Series), Dark Shadows (rent on Amazon Prime)
Charleston, South Carolina: With its centuries-old cobblestone streets and antebellum mansions, Charleston exudes a captivating charm. But beneath its picturesque façade lies a history of pirate legends, haunted plantations, and restless spirits. Embark on a ghost tour to uncover the city's spectral secrets, visit the eerie Old City Jail, and take a stroll through the hauntingly beautiful Magnolia Cemetery. Charleston's blend of history, Southern hospitality, and supernatural tales will leave you captivated.
Vibes: Elegant, Historic, Southern, Charming, Enchanting
Top Spots: Old Charleston Jail, Magnolia Cemetery, Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Tour, The Battery and White Point Garden, Dock Street Theatre
Food: Shrimp and Grits, Lowcountry Boil, Charleston-style Fried Chicken, Charleston's culinary scene extends far beyond these suggestions, offering a wide range of cuisines and flavors to suit every palate. From fresh seafood to soulful Southern specialties, Charleston's vibrant food culture is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more.
What to Watch before Going: Ghost Hunters (Peacock), The Secret Circle (Amazon Prime)
Estes Park, Colorado: Get spooky in the snow visiting this beautiful place! Nestled in the picturesque Rocky Mountains, Estes Park transforms into a hauntingly beautiful destination during spooky season. Discover the mystical allure of the Stanley Hotel, which served as inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining." Take a ghost tour to explore the hotel's spirited history and venture into the surrounding wilderness for breathtaking fall scenery. With its mix of natural beauty and spine-chilling stories, Estes Park is an enchanting destination for a memorable fall getaway.
Vibes: Scenic, Mountainous, Tranquil, Enchanting, Adventurous
Top Spots: Rocky Mountain National Park, The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park Aerial Tramway, Downtown Estes Park
Food: Rocky Mountain Trout, Bison Burger, Craft Beer, Huckleberry treats. Don't forget to explore local farmers' markets and roadside stands for fresh produce, honey, and other artisanal goods. Estes Park offers a diverse culinary scene, combining mountain flavors, local ingredients, and Colorado's love for craft beer and hearty cuisine.
What to Watch before Going: The Shining (HBO), Doctor Sleep (HBO)
Spooky season offers a unique opportunity to explore the eerie side of America's diverse landscapes and history. From Salem's witchcraft trials to the voodoo charm of New Orleans, each destination weaves its own enchanting tales of mystery and legend. So, embark on a bewitching journey, embrace the supernatural, and uncover the secrets that lie beneath the surface of these captivating locations. Let the magic of spooky season guide you as you create unforgettable memories and immerse yourself in the mysterious wonders of America.
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