Minnesota might be known as the land of the lakes and an ice box, but for our short three weeks of fall, we make the most of it. From hayrides in the woods to haunted theme parks, there is something for everyone. Here is my take on the top 5 haunted houses in MN—ranked from worst to best. I will share how much they will make you laugh, scream, and even run.
5. The Haunting Experience
This haunted house is similar to Scream Town and The Abandoned Hayride, where there are both houses and a hayride. This attraction is slightly controversial because some people love it while others think it’s not scary enough. If you are not super into haunted houses and don’t want to be terrified, this is a good spot to go— if you are willing to drive to Cottage Grove.
Scare Factor: 5/10
Best Part: Variety of things to do
4. State Fair Haunted House
Though this is not a traditional haunted house most people would think of, I added it to this list due to how most BSM students have been through it. This house is not the scariest, but it is always a good time. There is so much nostalgia that comes with this attraction, and it is something I never miss at the state fair. It is more about fun than scares, and that’s what makes it top 5.
Scare Factor: 4/10
Best Part: The nostalgia that comes with it each year
3. Valley Scare
Valley Scare is all the things people love about Valley Fair, mixed with some scares along the way. At Valley Scare, there are scare zones, live performances, and haunted houses. Valley Scare is a good option for those who don’t like to be scared. Those people can go on rides and walk around, while the people who love to get scared go into the houses.
Scare Factor: 3/10 not in houses, 8/10 with houses
Best Part: Rides and Haunted houses, what’s not to love?
2. Abandoned Hayride
The Abandoned Hayride and Scream Town are at the same location but are different attractions. The Hayride was created by a magician, so there are many special effects and skits along the way. At the end, you get out and walk a maze. This is less scary than Scream Town, but the scare actors can and will touch you along the way.
Scare Factor:7/10
Best part: Special effects and magic
1. Scream Town
There is no surprise that Scream Town is the most popular haunted house among Benilde St. Margaret’s students, and is ranked as my number one. Scream Town has it all: food and drinks, specific haunted houses, and even a chainsaw maze. The actors do more than just jump out at you; they watch and stalk you. The variety of attractions and level of scare make Scream Town my top pick.
Scare factor: 9/10
Best part: Psycho Delic Circus, I have a huge fear of clowns, so this was by far my favorite scare-wise.
Bonus
For those who love to be really scared (and are 18), check out the Haunted Basement in Minneapolis. This is an extreme attraction where there are strong smells, loud noises, and people grabbing you. This is a mix of art and horror, so you are led into the basement and have a certain amount of time down there. There is no path, and there is no way out. You will get separated from your friends, and all you have is a safe word.
Minnesota knows how to do Halloween, so bundle up and get some friends, and check out these houses.