5 Spooky Weekend Getaways for the Halloween Season 🎃
Crisp air, fiery leaves, and ghostly legends — fall is the season of spooks and thrills. If you’re craving a Halloween-inspired weekend escape, we’ve curated five destinations that blend haunted history with autumn charm. Each comes with a luxurious place to stay, a can’t-miss dining spot, and memorable things to do.
1. Salem, Massachusetts — The Witch City
What to Do:
Salem is Halloween central. Wander through the Salem Witch Museum, explore the House of the Seven Gables, and take part in the Haunted Happenings Festival. After dark, join a ghost walk through centuries-old cemeteries or sit in on a séance.
Where to Stay:
The Hawthorne Hotel — Elegant, historic, and rumored to be haunted.
The Coach House — A boutique gem blending Salem’s historic charm with modern luxury.
Where to Eat:
Nathaniel’s — Classic New England fare with vintage flair.
The Roof — Salem’s only rooftop bar, serving cocktails and tacos with sweeping views.
2. Hudson Valley & Sleepy Hollow, New York — Headless Horseman Country
What to Do:
Channel Washington Irving’s legend at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery tours or Philipsburg Manor. Don’t miss the dazzling Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, where thousands of hand-carved pumpkins glow at night. During the day, hike the Hudson Valley for unbeatable fall foliage.
Where to Stay:
Sleepy Hollow Hotel — A refined property near Tarrytown with comfort and historic touches.
Where to Eat:
Tarry Tavern — A cozy, seasonal bistro perfect for autumn evenings.
The Hudson House — Upscale dining with a Hudson River view, ideal for a romantic night out.
3. Savannah, Georgia — Ghostly Southern Charm
What to Do:
With moss-draped oaks and cobblestone squares, Savannah is tailor-made for ghost tours. Hop on a haunted trolley, explore Mercer-Williams House, and wander Bonaventure Cemetery. Between the scares, shop in the historic district and enjoy riverfront strolls.
Where to Stay:
Perry Lane Hotel — A Luxury Collection property with refined rooms, rooftop pool, and art-filled spaces.
Hotel Bardo — A bold, modern take on Savannah luxury, perfect for trend-setters.
Where to Eat:
The Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market (at Perry Lane) — Locally inspired dishes and an extensive wine list.
Pacci Italian Kitchen + Bar — Warm Italian plates in a stylish setting.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana — Voodoo & Vampires
What to Do:
In the French Quarter, spirits walk alongside jazz. Visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, tour voodoo shops and spiritual museums, or join a costumed Halloween ball. At night, take a haunted carriage ride or sip cocktails in an old Creole haunt.
Where to Stay:
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans — Timeless elegance just off Bourbon Street.
Four Seasons New Orleans — Modern luxury with riverfront views and world-class dining.
Where to Eat:
Chemin à la Mer (Four Seasons) — Elevated seafood and steak with sweeping views.
Commander’s Palace — A legendary Creole institution in the Garden District.
5. Point Pleasant, West Virginia — Mothman Country
What to Do:
This quirky riverside town embraces its cryptid lore. Visit the Mothman Museum, stroll the riverfront where sightings occurred, and take in local ghost stories. Pair your spooky adventures with a scenic drive through West Virginia’s rolling hills.
Where to Stay:
The Lowe Hotel — Historic and atmospheric, right in the center of town (limited availability).
Where to Eat:
The Lighthouse Pub & Grill — Casual local favorite with hearty American fare.
Paulie’s Fine Italian (nearby) — A regional standout for a refined dinner.
Tips for a Spooky Weekend Escape
Book early — October fills fast in haunted towns like Salem and New Orleans.
Plan your days & nights — Ghost tours and festivals shine after dark; save days for museums, shopping, and leaf-peeping.
Pack layers — Fall evenings can get chilly, especially in New England.
Embrace the theme — Costumes, spooky cocktails, and a sense of fun make the trip.