Best Halloween Travel Destinations for Families in 2025 – Spooky Fun for Kids

Halloween is no longer just about costumes and candy at home — families are now traveling to experience seasonal events, haunted attractions, and festive towns around the world. In 2025, Halloween travel has exploded in popularity, offering safe, family-friendly options that cater to kids of all ages.

From pumpkin patches to themed amusement parks, there are countless ways to create unforgettable holiday memories. Planning a trip around Halloween combines seasonal fun, cultural experiences, and kid-friendly thrills, making it one of the most magical times to travel with children.

Top Family-Friendly Halloween Towns in the US

1. Salem, Massachusetts
Known as the home of the infamous 1692 witch trials, Salem transforms into a Halloween wonderland every October. Families can enjoy:

Witch museums and historic tours

Family-friendly costume parades

Spooky but kid-safe scavenger hunts

Tips: Book accommodations early, as Salem fills quickly in October. The Haunted Happenings festival runs mid-October through Halloween, with plenty of daytime activities suitable for children.

2. Sleepy Hollow, New York
Inspired by Washington Irving’s classic tale, Sleepy Hollow offers:

Pumpkin carving contests

Storytime sessions for kids

Horse-drawn ghost tours (daytime versions are family-friendly)

3. Anoka, Minnesota
Dubbed the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka has:

Kid-friendly parades

Costume contests

Pumpkin patch activities

Amusement Parks & Theme Parks With Halloween Events

Many theme parks create Halloween events tailored for families:

1. Disneyland & Disney World (California & Florida)

“Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party”

Trick-or-treat trails with character meet-and-greets

Parades and fireworks suitable for children

2. Universal Studios (Orlando & Hollywood)

Family-friendly haunted houses during the day

Themed shows and rides

Costume contests for kids

3. Knott’s Berry Farm (California)

Ghost Town Alive! activities for families

Pumpkin decorating and crafts

Kid-safe haunted attractions

Pumpkin Patch Destinations for Families

Visiting a pumpkin patch is a classic Halloween experience:

Applecrest Farm (Massachusetts): Pumpkin picking, corn mazes, petting zoo

Cool Patch Pumpkins (California): One of the largest pumpkin patches with kid activities

Underwood Family Farms (California): Hayrides, farm animals, pumpkin bowling

Tips: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and have the best pumpkin selection. Many patches offer weekend workshops, perfect for creating Halloween crafts.

Outdoor & Safe Spooky Adventures

Families who enjoy light thrills can explore:

Haunted trails and forests: Look for daytime versions with safe scares

Ghost tours tailored for kids: Cities like Savannah, GA, and St. Augustine, FL, offer age-appropriate ghost walks

Historic haunted sites: Many allow family tours without jump scares

Tips: Check event websites for age recommendations. Bring snacks and water, and always check safety protocols for outdoor trails.

International Family-Friendly Halloween Travel

For families traveling abroad, there are unique Halloween celebrations around the world:

1. Dublin, Ireland

Kid-friendly haunted castle tours

Storytelling at local libraries and museums

Pumpkin festivals in public squares

2. London, UK

Halloween-themed afternoon teas for children

Family-friendly haunted houses in historic locations

Pumpkin decorating workshops at local markets

3. Tokyo, Japan

Disneyland Tokyo’s seasonal parade

Kid-friendly costume events in Shibuya

Pumpkin displays at theme parks and malls

Travel Tips for Families

Plan early: Halloween destinations book fast, especially hotels and special events.

Check age restrictions: Some haunted attractions are not suitable for young children.

Bring costumes: Many destinations encourage family dress-up.

Pack essentials: Snacks, water, and extra layers for outdoor events.

Check local COVID or health guidelines for 2025 if applicable.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Look for combo tickets for theme parks and pumpkin patches

Attend weekday events to avoid peak pricing

Many small towns host free parades or festivals

Book lodging outside the busiest tourist areas for savings

Final Thoughts

Halloween travel for families in 2025 can be magical, spooky, and memorable without being frightening. From haunted towns to pumpkin farms, theme parks to international celebrations, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the season safely with kids.

Plan early, pick age-appropriate activities, and embrace the festive spirit — your family will thank you for the unforgettable Halloween adventures!