Ready for some scary fun this Halloween? Here are 5 SLO County haunted houses to visit
Ready to get scared?
Halloween is almost here and with it, the return of San Luis Obispo County’s haunted houses and spooky mazes.
Whether you want pee-your-pants level frights or something a bit more family friendly, there is something for everyone this season.
So grab some friends — or if you’re really brave, go solo — and enjoy these SLO County haunts:
The Haunt
What: An attraction so scary it keeps sweatpants on hand for guest “accidents” and a pee chart in the ticket booth, The Haunt in Atascadero is one of the stalwarts of the local haunted house scene. Last year, BBC World News called it “America’s Most Frightening Haunted House.” Each year, dedicated volunteers work overtime to deliver a haunted house walk-through with special effects tricks and killer costumes. This year’s theme is “vampires, their minions and other horrifying creatures of the night.” Check on the Lights On show for a less frightening experience. The extra brave can try the Night Terrors experience, which invites guests to explore the darkened haunt with only a hand-held skull lantern for illumination.
When: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday in October, with a special Night Terrors show on Sunday and Halloween shows on Oct. 30 and 31. The Lights On walk-through is 2 to 4 p.m. Oct. Saturday.
Where: 5805 El Camino Real, Atascadero
How much: $15
Info: 805-457-5845 or thehauntinatascadero.com
Nightmare From Main Street
What: Returning after a brief hiatus — and in a brand-new location in downtown Paso Robles — is Nightmare From Main Street. Described as the “scariest haunted house on the Central Coast,” the attraction features more than 6,000 square feet of “spine-thrilling scares,” according to its website. And it’s all for a good cause; proceeds go to a variety of local clubs and organizations.
When: 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Oct. 28, 29, 30 and 31. Lights-on tours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday and 30.
Where: 828 14th St., Paso Robles
How much: $20, $30 VIP, $10 for lights-on walk-through
Info: 805-423-0674 or nightmarefrommainstreet.com
Brookshire Farms Night Maze
What: While not technically a haunted house, anyone who has seen “Children of the Corn” can vouch that a night-time jaunt through a field is plenty frightening. That’s where Brookshire Farms’ Night Maze comes into play. Separate from the farm’s pumpkin patch activities, the Night Maze allows guests an outdoor experience, but visitors are reminded to bring their own flashlights and leave the pets at home. Children and teens must be accompanied by adults.
When: 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 and Oct. 29
Where: 4747 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo
How much: $18
Info: 805-549-8733 or brookshirefarms.com/pumpkin-patch
Elks Lodge Haunted House
What: Hosted by Elks Lodge 322, this San Luis Obispo haunted house is free and open to the public, although donations are appreciated. Food will be available on site for purchase.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 28 and 29
Where: 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo
How much: Free
Info: 805-543-0322 or bpoeslo322.com/event/halloween-haunted-house-carnival
The Haunting of Elm Street Hotel
What: Don’t worry, South County residents: You’ll also have an opportunity to get in on some frighteningly good fun. The city of Arroyo Grande is hosting its annual Halloween Carnival, and this year’s festivities come complete with a haunted maze. According to the city, those wanting a spookier experience should enter the maze at or after 7:30 p.m. It’s recommended for ages 12 and up.
When: 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 29
Where: Elm Street Park, Ash and Elm streets, Arroyo Grande
How much: $5
Info: 805-473-5474