Scream Tourism: A Thrilling New Trend Sweeps the United States of America

Saturday, September 14, 2024

A new trend is sweeping the nation, enticing thrillseekers to pack their bags for a different kind of adventure—Scream Tourism. This growing phenomenon sees fans of haunted attractions traveling far and wide to experience the country’s most terrifying destinations. According to America Haunts, the leading association of haunted attractions, these spine-chilling experiences are drawing tourists from across the country, turning Halloween into a major travel event. The association has compiled a list of the top five haunted attractions in the U.S., each offering a unique and terrifying experience.

Top 5 Haunted Destinations for Scream Tourism

1. The Factory of Terror – Canton, Ohio As the holder of the Guinness World Record for the longest indoor haunted attraction, Canton’s Factory of Terror is a must-visit for thrillseekers. With five sections of pure terror and an immersive atmosphere, it’s more than just a haunted house—it’s an entire destination. Visitors can enjoy four themed areas outside the haunt, extending the horror-filled experience.
2. Kersey Valley SpookyWoods – Greensboro/High Point, North Carolina This North Carolina megahaunt offers spine-tingling experiences with Hollywood-level effects and expansive, detailed sets. Kersey Valley SpookyWoods is a mix of adrenaline-pumping scares at night and fun attractions during the day, making it one of the nation’s top haunted attractions year-round.
3. The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park – San Diego, California In San Diego’s famous Balboa Park, this outdoor terror trail immerses visitors in a nightmare filled with ghastly creatures and shocking scares. The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park is a popular pick for those seeking an unforgettable, frightening adventure in a picturesque, tourist-friendly setting.
4. Talon Falls Screampark – Paducah/Melber, Kentucky Talon Falls Screampark is a true horror lover’s destination. Located in the eerie woods of Kentucky, this screampark features horror trails, immersive haunts, and terrifying themes ranging from vampires to the supernatural. It’s a top spot for travelers looking for heart-pounding experiences.
5. Beast Haunted Attraction – Kansas City, Missouri Beast Haunted Attraction offers a haunting experience within a six-story building in Kansas City, with massive architecture adding to the terror. It competes closely with the nearby Edge of Hell, the oldest haunt in the nation, offering a unique double-dose of fear for Scream Tourists in the area.

The Rise of Scream Tourism

Scream Tourism has transformed Halloween from a local celebration to a national event, with more travelers than ever planning trips centered around haunted attractions. The best haunted attractions have become major destinations, providing a significant boost to the travel and tourism industry during the Halloween season.

America Haunts reports that these top-tier attractions have attracted visitors looking to experience the scariest haunts in the country, adding to their “bucket list” of destinations. With professional-level scares, immersive environments, and well-planned experiences, these haunts are helping to define a new form of adventure tourism.