10 Spooky Activities For Halloween In Chicago

It's that time of year when the haunted houses and ghost tours make their grand debut, and pumpkin spice takes over everything. Halloween season is upon us, and if you find yourself in the Windy City, you're in for a real treat - or perhaps a trick. With so much to do and see, it can be difficult to narrow down just what attractions to visit. But fear not, as we've compiled a definitive list of the 10 spookiest activities to make your Halloween in Chicago one for the books. From haunted tours to chilling museum exhibits, prepare yourself for a devilishly good time.

Haunted walking tours in Lincoln Park or downtown Chicago

Haunted Walking Tours in Chicago: Exploring Lincoln Park and Beyond for Halloween Thrills and Chills

As Halloween approaches, Chicago locals and visitors alike search for the spookiest and most entertaining ways to scare themselves silly in the Windy City. While there are plenty of haunted houses, costume parties, and pumpkin patches to explore, one of the best ways to experience the eerie atmosphere of the season is by taking a haunted walking tour. Whether you choose to wander through Lincoln Park, downtown Chicago, or other historic sites, you can expect to learn some fascinating history, hear legendary ghost stories, and maybe even encounter some real-life supernatural entities along the way.

Let's begin our exploration of some of the best haunted walking tours in Chicago with the most popular one, the "Chicago Hauntings Tour." With a fleet of seven buses, this company offers several different tours, from a general ghost hunt to a cemetery exploration to a gangster and ghost tour. However, their flagship and most loved tour is their downtown Chicago haunted tour. Lasting about two and a half hours, the tour takes visitors to some of the most notoriously haunted locations in Chicago - from the site of the Fort Dearborn massacre to the haunted Congress Hotel to the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. Not only will you hear spine-tingling tales of Chicago's dark history, but you'll also get to stroll through some of the city's most iconic landmarks.

If you prefer a walking tour dedicated to spooky stories and ghost sightings in Chicago's historic neighborhoods, the "Legendary Chicago Walking Tours" has you covered. Their Lincoln Park ghost tour lasts about two hours and takes you through the streets of one of Chicago's oldest and most haunted neighborhoods. You'll learn about the gruesome murder of the Grimes sisters, the haunted cemetery on the grounds of the Lincoln Park Zoo, and the mysterious "Shadow Man" who has been spotted around the neighborhood. Your guide will provide you with a supernatural detector to help you spot any unexplained phenomena on the way.

Another popular option is the "Dark History & Horror Tour of Chicago" by Weird Chicago Tours. This three-hour walking tour takes you through the most notorious crime scenes and sites of paranormal activity in Chicago's Loop district. You'll visit the site of the worst fire in Chicago's history, the deadly Iroquois Theater fire, and explore the sinister history of the Hull House, one of the city's most famous haunted houses. The guides are experts in both true crimes and ghost stories, so you can trust that they will offer you some of the most disturbing and chilling tales you've ever heard.

Whether you choose to explore the haunted streets of downtown Chicago or walk through the eerie paths of Lincoln Park, a haunted walking tour is a perfect way to spend Halloween in Chicago. So, put on your most comfortable shoes, grab a warm jacket, and prepare for a night of thrills and chills you won't forget. And who knows, you might leave the tour with a new ghostly friend or two.

Visit the 13th Floor Haunted House

If you're looking to get into the Halloween spirit in Chicago, one of the best places to visit is the 13th Floor Haunted House. Located in Melrose Park, just outside of the city, this haunted house is one of the scariest around. Here's everything you need to know about visiting the 13th Floor Haunted House this Halloween season.

The 13th Floor Haunted House is known for its elaborate sets and terrifying scares. This year, the theme of the haunted house is "Dead End District," which takes visitors on a tour through a rundown, abandoned city. You'll encounter all kinds of spooky creatures, from zombies to clowns to ghosts, as you make your way through the haunted house.

One of the things that sets the 13th Floor Haunted House apart from other haunted houses is its attention to detail. The sets are incredibly well-done and realistic, which makes it all the more terrifying when a monster jumps out at you. The actors also do an amazing job of getting into character and scaring visitors. If you're someone who loves to be scared, this is definitely a haunted house you won't want to miss.

Another great thing about the 13th Floor Haunted House is that they offer a variety of ticket options. You can purchase a general admission ticket, which will get you into the haunted house, or you can upgrade to a fast pass or VIP ticket to skip the lines. They also offer a "lights out" event, where you can experience the haunted house in complete darkness (if you're brave enough!).

Overall, if you're looking for a scare this Halloween season, the 13th Floor Haunted House is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared to scream!

Nighttime Ghost Tour at the Oriental Theatre

Halloween is a time when ghosts and spirits come out to play, and what better way to celebrate the occasion than with a spooky tour of one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks. The Oriental Theatre, located in the heart of downtown, offers a Nighttime Ghost Tour that is sure to send shivers down your spine.

This historic theater has been around for over 90 years and has seen its fair share of performers, audiences, and ghostly apparitions. The tour takes you through the dimly lit corridors, backstage areas, and even the projection room, all while your guide regales you with tales of the strange occurrences that have taken place over the years.

You'll hear about the ghost of a former stagehand who still lingers in the wings, the apparition of a woman in a white dress who has been spotted by staff and visitors alike, and the mysterious phantom who plays the organ late at night when the theater is empty. Some guests have even reported feeling a cold breath on their neck or a ghostly hand brushing against their shoulder.

The Nighttime Ghost Tour at the Oriental Theatre is not for the faint of heart, but it is a thrilling experience for anyone interested in the paranormal. The tours are offered on select nights leading up to Halloween, and tickets sell out quickly, so be sure to book your spot in advance.

If you're looking for a unique and bone-chilling way to celebrate Halloween in Chicago, the Nighttime Ghost Tour at the Oriental Theatre is an absolute must-do. You never know who - or what - you might encounter on this eerie journey through one of Chicago's most haunted locations.

Check out the H.H. Holmes Murder Castle pop-up exhibit

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you are looking for something spooky and thrilling to do in Chicago, then you'll love the H.H. Holmes Murder Castle pop-up exhibit! This terrifying exhibit is inspired by the infamous serial killer H.H. Holmes, who terrorized Chicago in the late 1800s.

For those who are unfamiliar with Holmes, he was a con man, serial killer, and bigamist. He designed and built a hotel known as the "Murder Castle," where he lured unsuspecting guests and killed them. After making some modifications to the building, the hotel became a death trap, with torture chambers, gas chambers, trap doors, and intricate labyrinths that would lead victims to their fate.

The pop-up exhibit is located in the old post office building in Chicago's West Loop. Once you reach the third floor, you'll step into a dark and eerie world that will transport you back in time to the Murder Castle. The exhibit features a multi-room environment that showcases Holmes' twisted mind and gruesome methods of murder.

The experience is interactive, and you'll be guided through the exhibit by actors who bring Holmes' story to life, and they will involve you in the story. You'll get a chance to explore the dark and twisted halls of the Murder Castle, see the skeleton of Holmes' victims, and learn about the gruesome details of the crimes. The exhibit also features props and interactive elements, which makes it a unique and thrilling experience.

When and Where to visit:

The H.H. Holmes Murder Castle pop-up exhibit is open from October 2nd to November 28th, 2021, and is located at the Old Post Office building, 433 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60607.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a spine-tingling and terrifying experience this Halloween season, the H.H. Holmes Murder Castle pop-up exhibit is an excellent option. You'll get to explore the dark and twisted halls of one of the most infamous serial killers in history, and you're guaranteed to be scared out of your wits. So gather your courage, and brace yourself for a trip to the Murder Castle this Halloween!

Halloween at Navy Pier with a costume contest and fireworks

Are you looking for the perfect way to celebrate Halloween in Chicago this year? Look no further than Navy Pier, where you can join in on all the spooky and festive fun! This year's Halloween event at Navy Pier promises to be a frightfully good time, with plenty of activities for all ages.

One of the highlights of the evening is the costume contest, where you can show off your most creative and scary Halloween costume. Compete with others for the chance to win some great prizes, and get your photo taken to remember your unforgettable night at Navy Pier.

But the fun doesn't stop there. After the costume contest, stick around for a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the night sky with brilliant colors and shapes. You won't want to miss this stunning performance, which is sure to leave you feeling in awe of the eerie beauty of the night.

Of course, there will be plenty of other activities to keep you entertained throughout the evening. Enjoy some delicious food and drinks, take a stroll along the pier, and soak up the spooky atmosphere of this festive event. There will be Halloween-themed games and activities for kids, as well as live music and entertainment for adults.

So if you're looking for a Halloween event that truly has it all, head on down to Navy Pier in Chicago. Whether you come alone or with friends and family, you're sure to have a spooktacular time that you'll never forget. Get your tickets in advance, dress up in your best Halloween costume, and prepare for a night of fun, frights, and fireworks!

Screams in the Park haunted house in Rosemont

If you're looking for a spooky adventure this Halloween, look no further than Screams in the Park haunted house in Rosemont, a suburb of Chicago. This haunted house is sure to send chills down your spine and leave you with hair-raising memories.

Screams in the Park is a highly immersive haunted house that takes guests through a variety of different twisted worlds, each with their own unique brand of terror. From creepy clown carnivals to zombie-infested hospitals, this haunted house has something for everyone.

One of the standout features of Screams in the Park is its attention to detail. The haunted house is decked out in incredibly realistic, movie-quality set design and special effects that make you feel like you've stepped right into the middle of a horror movie. You'll be surrounded by fog, strobe lights, and creepy sound effects that will keep you on edge throughout the entire experience.

The scares at Screams in the Park are also top-notch. The actors who populate the haunted house are incredibly talented and committed to their roles, which means that they'll do everything in their power to get a good scream out of you. They'll jump out from behind corners, sneak up on you from behind, and even chase you down dark hallways.

Despite the intense scares, Screams in the Park is incredibly safe and well-organized. There are safety measures in place to ensure that guests don't accidentally run into walls or hurt themselves in any way. The actors are also trained to back off quickly if anyone seems to be in distress.

Tickets for Screams in the Park are available online or at the door, though it's recommended that you purchase them ahead of time to avoid long lines. There are options for both general admission and VIP admission, which includes front-of-the-line access and a souvenir t-shirt.

In conclusion, if you're in the Chicago area this Halloween season and you're looking for a good scare, Screams in the Park haunted house in Rosemont is an excellent choice. Its attention to detail, top-notch scares, and commitment to safety make it a must-see attraction for anyone who loves horror. So gather up your bravest friends and get ready for a night of heart-pumping terror.

Great American Pumpkin Patch at Navy Pier

Fall is in the air, and Halloween is right around the corner. If you're in Chicago, you're in luck – the city is packed with spooky fun for everyone. If you're looking for the perfect way to get in the Halloween spirit, look no further than the Great American Pumpkin Patch at Navy Pier.

Every October, Navy Pier transforms into a pumpkin wonderland, with thousands of pumpkins, gourds, and squash on display. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season, and there's something for everyone to enjoy.

The Great American Pumpkin Patch is free and open to the public from October 1st to October 31st. Visitors can stroll through the patch, taking in the stunning array of pumpkins, and snapping photos with their favorites. From bright orange gourds to white and green striped pumpkins, there's no shortage of beautiful, unique specimens to admire.

In addition to the pumpkin display, the Great American Pumpkin Patch offers a wealth of activities for kids and adults alike. Families can enjoy pumpkin painting, face painting, and a petting zoo filled with friendly farm animals. There are also fun carnival games, food vendors, and live pumpkin carving demonstrations.

For those looking for a scarier experience, the Great American Pumpkin Patch offers a haunted house experience called Fear Haus. This spooky attraction is not for the faint of heart – visitors can expect jump scares, creepy clowns, and plenty of chills and thrills.

While you're at Navy Pier, be sure to check out some of the other Halloween events happening around the city. The Chicago Park District hosts a number of Halloween festivals and events, and you can even take a ghost tour of some of the city's most haunted locations.

In short, if you're looking for things to do for Halloween in Chicago, the Great American Pumpkin Patch at Navy Pier is not to be missed. With thousands of pumpkins, fun activities for all ages, and plenty of spooky surprises, it's the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit.

See horror movies at the Music Box Theatre

Halloween is just around the corner and the Windy City is gearing up for a frightfully good time! One of the best things to do for Halloween in Chicago is to catch a horror movie at the historic Music Box Theatre.

The Music Box Theatre is a beloved Chicago institution that has been showcasing the best in independent, foreign, and classic films for over 90 years. During the Halloween season, the theatre transforms into a spooktacular destination with a lineup of hauntingly good horror movies.

This year's Halloween movie lineup includes everything from beloved classics to newer releases. Some of the must-see movies include John Carpenter's 1982 classic "The Thing," the chilling psychological thriller "Midsommar," and the 2019 reboot of "Child's Play."

But the Music Box Theatre is more than just a movie theatre - it's a destination in its own right. The ornate decor and old-school charm of the theatre make it the perfect setting for a night of spooky fun. And with a bar serving up themed cocktails and snacks like popcorn with caramel and bacon, you're sure to have a ghoulishly good time.

Tickets for the movies at the Music Box Theatre range from $12-$15, an affordable price for an unforgettable Halloween experience. Plus, the theatre is conveniently located in the vibrant Lakeview neighborhood, surrounded by plenty of restaurants and bars to continue the Halloween festivities after the movie is over.

So if you're looking for a memorable way to celebrate Halloween in Chicago, head to the Music Box Theatre for a scary good time. Just make sure to bring a friend or two to hold onto during the especially terrifying scenes!

Spooky cocktails at The Sixth Bar in Lincoln Square

Halloween is right around the corner, and if you're looking for a spooky way to celebrate, you have to check out The Sixth Bar in Lincoln Square. This cozy yet sophisticated bar offers some of the most unique and terrifying cocktail creations that will surely spook and satisfy you.

Located at 2202 W Lawrence Ave, The Sixth Bar is a popular spot for those looking to indulge in some Halloween-themed beverages. This year, they have come up with some of the most devilish cocktails that will truly haunt you.

One of the bar's signature cocktails for the Halloween season is the "Bloody Rose". This eerie cocktail is made with gin, lime juice, rose water, and grenadine. The drink is garnished with a bloodied plastic rose, making it the perfect spooky cocktail for any Halloween party.

If you're feeling more adventurous, you might want to try "The Witching Hour", another signature Halloween cocktail at The Sixth Bar. This one is made with mezcal, lemon juice, green chartreuse, and activated charcoal, giving it a deep black color that will creep you out.

For those who like to keep it simple, you can try the "Spider's Kiss", a classic cocktail that has been given a Halloween twist. It is made with vodka, raspberry liqueur, and Prosecco, and is served in a black and orange cocktail glass with a spiderweb design. This one might not be as spooky as the others, but it's definitely a fun and festive Halloween drink.

Apart from the spooky cocktails, The Sixth Bar also offers a wide range of bar bites that are perfect for sharing with friends. From charcuterie boards to crispy brussels sprouts, these dishes will satisfy your hunger as you sip on your creepy cocktails.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a unique and eerie way to celebrate Halloween, The Sixth Bar in Lincoln Square is the place to be. With its spooky cocktails, quaint ambiance, and delicious bites, it's the perfect spot to get in the Halloween spirit. So, gather up your friends, dress up in your scariest costumes, and head over to The Sixth Bar for a truly haunting experience.

Halloween party at Roof on theWit with views of the city

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you are looking for a unique and exciting way to celebrate the holiday, a Halloween party at the Roof on theWit in Chicago is the perfect idea for you. The Roof on theWit is a stylish rooftop bar that offers breathtaking views of the bustling city skyline, and it is an ideal location to celebrate the spooky season.

The Halloween party at Roof on theWit is one of the most awaited events of the year. This party features everything from ghosts, goblins, witches, and other scary creatures that will give you spine-chilling thrills. With spooky decorations and eerie lighting, the atmosphere is sure to get you in the Halloween spirit. The dress code for this party is strictly Halloween costumes, and they often have contests to see who is the scariest, funniest or most creative.

The Roof on theWit serves up unique and spooky cocktails that are sure to impress even the staunchest of cocktail connoisseurs. Whether you are in the mood for a blood-red bloody mary or a scary pumpkin punch, you are sure to find the perfect drink to suit your Halloween mood.

One of the most exciting things about the Halloween party at Roof on theWit is the DJ playing the latest Halloween-themed party music. With a mix of classic Halloween songs and current hits, the music and energy will keep you dancing throughout the night.

If you're looking for a party that offers amazing views, great drinks, awesome music, and a delightful Halloween atmosphere, look no further than Roof on theWit's Halloween party. Make sure to join in on the fun, don your spookiest costumes, and experience the best Halloween party in Chicago with some of the city's notable partygoers. Book your tickets early to avoid missing out on this amazing event.

Frequently asked questions