Just because the weather doesn’t get very cold here in Orange County doesn’t mean you can’t feel the chill of terror this spooky season. Whether you’re into haunted mazes, ghostly encounters, or spine-chilling attractions, we’ve gathered the best spooky Halloween events happening this year that are guaranteed to give you a fright. Here is your guide to the creepiest things you can do in Orange County this Halloween.
NOTE: We don’t recommend several of these experiences for those with young children! For compilations of more family-friendly spooky season fun, check out our Ultimate Guide to Pumpkin Patches or 12 Things to do this Fall 2024 instead.
1. Walk Through a Haunted Maze at Knott’s Scary Farm
- Dates: September 19 – October 31
- Location: Knotts Berry Farm, Buena Park
If you’re the type that loves a good jump scare and a truly immersive experience, If you’re a horror enthusiast, Knott’s Scary Farm is the ultimate Halloween destination in OC. For over 50 years, Knott’s has been transforming their theme park into a nightmarish wonderland filled with haunted mazes, scare zones, and live shows that will have you jumping out of your skin. With over 1,000 monsters lurking in the shadows, this event brings fear to life in ways you won’t forget. The park is packed with terrifying new mazes every year, so there’s always something fresh to send chills down your spine even if you’ve visited in years past.
2. Experience the Haunts of Dark Harbour at The Queen Mary
- Dates: September 20 – November 2
- Location: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach
While not technically in Orange County, Queen Mary’s Dark Harbour is just a short drive away in Long Beach. This iconic Halloween event that takes place on the actual infamous Queen Mary ship’s decks and harbor is back with new mazes, live entertainment, themed bars, and experiences on the notoriously haunted ship in Long Beach. Fan favorites like Scary Mary and Samuel the Savage are returning, along with new attractions, including the Lullaby and Breakout mazes. This massive Halloween festival will also feature secret speakeasies, immersive environments, and plenty of opportunities for scares
3. Push Your Limits at The 17th Door
- Dates: September 27 – November 3
- Location: 8420 On the Mall, Buena Park
Looking for something a little more extreme than an amusement park? The 17th Door is known for pushing boundaries. This immersive haunt takes you through 17 rooms of intense horror, and the experience includes hands-on scares and psychological challenges that test your bravery. This isn’t your average haunted house—it’s designed to be interactive and terrifying, so be prepared for an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
TIP! Their instagram often shares coupon codes for $8 off your tickets. Check it out!
4. Explore Haunted History on Orange County Ghost Walks
- Dates: All year round!
- Location: Various locations across Orange County
If you prefer a more historical approach to getting spooked, Haunted Orange County Ghost Walks take you on a journey through some of OC’s most supposedly haunted locations. Choose from tours in Old Town Orange, Santa Ana’s historic district, Downtown Fullerton, Black Star Canyon, and more where you’ll hear chilling tales of paranormal activity and ghostly encounters. These walks offer a blend of history and horror, giving you a peek into Orange County’s haunted past.
Do you know of any other spooktacular haunts happening this Halloween in Orange County? Comment below!
