I’m originally from New England, which is one of the spookiest spots in America. So while I’m here in Westchester County, I’m always looking for spooky spots in the area during the Halloween season. Here are some of my favorite finds.
1. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
This spot is pretty creepy even on the nicest day of the year, so if you go during October it’s even creepier. They even host walking tours during the day, and at night they hold a two hour tour by the light of kerosene lanterns. I’ve never done one of the guided walking tours, but simply walking around with a friend is creepy enough!
2. Lyndhurst Manor
This famous mansion in Tarrytown was actually used for two movies in the Dark Shadows franchise House of Dark Shadows (1970) and night of Dark Shadows (1971). Every Halloween season, they decorate the house to reflect the holiday, not only is the house beautiful, but the grounds which are free to roam can be extremely spooky.
3. The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze
This festival at Van Cortlandt Manor is always extremely impressive, and tickets sell out fast! It’s an incredible display of over 7,000 carved pumpkins to create beautiful scenes on the manor’s grounds. It’s a must see during October and November!
4. Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses
Named America’s Scariest Haunted House in the Northeast by MTV, this is a must see during October. Located in Ulster Park, NY, the area holds 7 haunted attractions, a corn maze and a haunted hayride. This is the spot to get scared if you love the thrill of Halloween.