October in the DMV has officially kicked off, and the leaves are turning a crimson-orange hue in Rock Creek Park. Fall festivals are underway, offering excited patrons hayrides, apple cider donuts, and unparalleled DC-area autumnal vibes. Pumpkins, witches, and ghosts have been adorning the front steps of the historic row houses of Capitol Hill. Our favorite time of year is upon us for kids and adults alike: Spooky Season. If you’re in the mood to scream, check out the hand-picked list of local haunted experiences below.
Field of Screams (Olney, MD)
Field of Screams has been voted Best Haunted Attraction by USA today, and it’s no wonder. With over 55 themed attractions including Trail of Terror, Slaughter Factory, and Carnival Town Games, this is your one-stop-shop fear factory. Professional actors and creative designers come up with new paths of terror every year, so even returning guests can prepare to be creeped out in a whole new way. Ticket sales are online only, and they even offer a “Scream Pass” so you can check out all of the attractions they have to offer (if you can take it).
Occoquan Spirits (Occoquan, VA)
Occoquan is no stranger to spookiness year-round. A high volume of crystal and witchcraft shops, along with a rich history of hauntings, have earned it the online nickname “Occultoquan.” In true Occoquan fashion, Occoquan Spirits offers something a little more authentic than your typical October event: a tour led by a medium who communicates with ghosts throughout the tour. The tour begins in a haunted art gallery, and patrons will even have a chance to meet the resident ghost, Tad. Picture-taking isn’t just allowed–it’s encouraged, and previous tour-takers have even captured paranormal evidence on film.
Markoff’s Haunted Forest (Dickerson, MD)
If frightening forests scare the living daylights out of you, then Markoff’s Haunted Forest might be a little too freaky for you. With over a mile of haunted trails, including a haunted Town (new this year!) Markoff’s Haunted Forest is an immersive experience. Take a break from the chills and hang at the Cursed Village, where a DJ keeps the spooky soirée going into the night with dancing, food, and drinks—but only if you dare!
Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion (Doswell, VA)
Through November 3, Kings Dominion will be running their local favorite “spooktacular” event on select nights. Park-goers can spend the day riding roller coasters and eating ice cream, but when night falls, the zombies will emerge. Haunted mazes, designated “scare zones,” and haunted houses will set the tone for a truly frightening, bone-chilling experience. If you haven’t had your fill of screaming, you can head over to a rollercoaster–KD keeps their most popular rides open during this event, for extra thrills and chills.
US Ghost Adventures (Annapolis, MD)
This veteran-owned ghost tour combines rich local history with the paranormal. Learn about the fascinating but frightening pirate-infested shores of the Severn River and Puritans with a dark, violent history. Local legends may make an appearance, like a Naval Lieutenant whose murderer was never found, or a drunk gambler who keeps haunting the town. Choose your own adventure: pick from either a regular Ghost Tour or a “Boos and Booze” Pub Tour, where you can drink in some of the same historic bars as the ghosts did when they were living.
See more local haunted attractions:
Baltimore Ghost Tours (Baltimore, MD)
Ghosts of Georgetown Walking Tour (Georgetown, Washington, DC)
Alexandria Ghost Tour (Alexandria, VA)
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream (Williamsburg, VA)
