Boo! The Best Halloween Attractions in Chicago

Finally, October has arrived and we all know what that means! With Freeform already out with its spooktacular 31 Nights of Halloween, jack-o-lanterns becoming a common appearance, and everyone figuring out what costumes to rock, what better way is there to top this off than with a Halloween-themed attraction? Whether haunted-houses or pumpkin patches as a go-to, here are the best activities to get into the spooky season.

Jack’s Pumpkin Glow: Let’s start off with an activity that is more family-friendly geared. Making its Chicago debut, Jack’s Pumpkin Glow is based around all things pumpkin. From traditional carved pumpkins to intricate pumpkin sculptures, where the likes of Day of the Dead skulls are featured next to celebrities’ faces, there is a little bit of everything. Not to mention, each jack-o-lantern and sculpture has lights, making the attraction a pretty-cool light display. There is even a hands-on project, where one can “paint” their own pumpkin!

Jack’s Pumpkin Glow is located at 2571 Navistar Drive in Lisle, IL. Tickets are $22.99.

Basement of the Dead: On the more eerie side, Basement of the Dead is one of the top-ranked haunted houses in Illinois by Halloween fanatics, which means it is pretty good. In there, one can expect to find bloody nuns, killer clowns, and other scary creatures lurking and ready to give a fright! Since it is claimed to be one of the scariest attractions in the state of Illinois, one should plan on not going if wishing for sleep. Also, it is best to go with a group of friends, where there is the comfort of being with someone who is not out to get you. Plus, who does not like making others go first?

Basement of the Dead is located at 42 West New York Street, Aurora, IL. General Admission costs $30.00.

Six Flags Fright Fest: One of the most famous attractions during the month of October is that of Fright Fest. This event consists of monsters, ghouls, and demons coming out at night to frighten the living. With several haunted houses, mazes, and scare zones set up, what is not to love? It is advised going at night to get a kick out of all the costumed creatures, but one can also go during the day. Not only are there so many things to do besides ride elevators, but the decorations are to the max. One might see coffins, toxic waste barrels, and spirits on their walk around the park. Also, listen out for the spooky sounds.

Fright Fest is located at Six Flags Great America. Fright Fest daily tickets start at $52.99.

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard: One of the most famous farms in Chicago is that of Goebbert’s, and it is for good reason. One can expect to find pumpkin patches, apple orchards, a petting zoo, fun slides, train rides around the farm, and tractor racing! Throughout the days, there are even shows to be watched. At the entrance, there is a cute store where one can buy decorations for Halloween or for the fall season. There are little food stands where the location sells everything from bratwursts to apple cider. To be put frankly, the apple cider doughnuts are to die for! It is quite hard to leave without at least a dozen. This is truly an amazing place to go with anyone! 

There are two locations for this event. The first one is on 40 W Higgins Rd, South Barrington. The other one is located at 42 W 813 Reinking Road, Pingree Grove. Tickets start at $12.99.

With there being so many things to do, there is no chance of being bored. Take advantage of this month as it only comes once a year. Happy Halloween and have fun!