This author is a paid content writer for Idaho Tourism.
The weather in Idaho is cooling off, people are stocking up on bags of candy like it were the apocalypse, and the pumpkin carving is under way. Yes, Halloween is just around the corner, and Idahoans are gearing up for a frightfully fun holiday. In the true spirit of Halloween, we’ve compiled the top 9 haunted houses and corn mazes that will send shivers down your spine. Visit them all, if you dare.
1. Egyptian Theatre
Boise, Idaho
The Egyptian Theatre opened its doors in Boise in 1927. This theatre is now known throughout the Treasure Valley as a historical landmark and ghost-inhabited estate. The soul said to reside in the theatre is believed to be that of former 1920’s projectionist. Joe, as most visitors call him, worked for the theatre on the tail end of the 1920’s up until he had a heart attack while climbing the stairs to the projection booth in the 1950’s. Guests regularly report opening and closing doors, lights being turned on and off, and odd noises coming from other rooms. Check out the Idaho Horror Film Festival to really get your blood pumping.
2. Haunted History Tour
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Head to Idaho Falls and relive the area’s tortured past. The second annual Haunted History Walking Tour on October 21st, 22nd, 28th, and 29th returns with dark and twisted stories of Idaho Falls’ twisted past. Hear the tales of crooked businessmen, soiled doves, and malicious murderers that played a part in Idaho Falls’ not so distant past.
3. The Haunted World
Caldwell, Idaho
The Haunted World has been around for 17 years, and many visitors will tell you this spooky attraction has perfected the art of fear. It’s the largest haunted attraction in the state, offering more frightening entertainment than you may be willing to handle. Typical visits last 1½ hours on weekdays, and around 2 hours on weekends.
4. Haunted Mansions of Albion
Albion, Idaho
If you’re scared of clowns, then the Haunted Mansions of Albion will want to be on your list of places to avoid – or see? Depending on how you feel about being scared on Halloween! There’s also a “Zombie Academy” that will have all you Walking Dead fans jumping for joy.
5. Linder Farms
Meridian, Idaho
Linder Farms is one of the most family-friendly Halloween attractions on this list and it’s the official corn maze of the BSU Broncos. Take the kids to enjoy barrel train rides, laser tag, a petting zoo, obstacle course, Trail of Terror, and Zombie Acres, where they can take part in defending Idaho against the zombie apocalypse.
6. The Farmstead
Meridian, Idaho
You’ve more than likely heard of The Farmstead, as it’s the home of Idaho’s original corn maze and was featured on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. You can take your kids to the pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect Jack O’ Lantern, exercise on a jumping pillow, watch pig races, ride the cow train, take a hayride, and run through the terrifying Field of Screams.
7. Old Idaho State Penitentiary
Boise, Idaho
The Old Idaho State Penitentiary has quite the reputation and is often referred to as the most haunted site in the state. Perhaps it boasts such a chilling reputation because of its past, which consists of prison riots and executions. The Old Pen’s former inmates are said to haunt facility. Visitors report strange events such as feeling touches from invisible entities, sudden overwhelming feelings of dread or despair, and disembodied whispers in the hallways. You can visit the Old Idaho State Penitentiary right before Halloween on October 28th for the Frightened Felons Family Night or on October 29th for Frightened Felons Adult Night.
8. Dr. Slaughter’s Carnival of Fear
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Dr. Slaughter’s Carnival of Fear is not for the faint of heart. Visit the tomb and see what thousands of years of isolated, cursed souls created. Run through 30,000 feet of winding catacombs, terrifying 3D effects, and sights and sounds of sheer madness.
9. Scarywood Theme Park
Athol, Idaho
Perhaps the most famous North Idaho Halloween attraction, Scarywood Theme Park returns for another year of terror. What you thought you knew as Silverwood Theme Park is transformed into a living nightmare that will haunt you for eternity. This attraction has been featured on Travel Channel’s, “Halloween’s Scariest Thrills,” and continues to raise the bar every year. Experience five haunted attractions, seven scare zones and most of Silverwood’s signature rides in the dark.
Be sure to share your haunted Idaho photos with us on Instagram by using the #VisitIdaho hashtag.
Published on October 14, 2016