Every October, haunted houses appear, claiming to deliver the scariest experiences and biggest thrills. But not every haunted house lives up to the hype. Here are some of the ones that are worth going to.

  If you are planning to stay around the local areas and not have to drive over an hour away then I would recommend visiting Haunted Haven. Haunted Haven used to be located in a barn, but it sadly burnt down and is now located in Nelson, Il. It offers a terrifying journey, 8,000 square feet of a haunted trail through the woods. 

  When you first get there, you take a hayrack ride out into the woods, then you go buy a wristband which costs $15 a person, and then you wait in line. As you wait in line, creepy scare actors come and scare you every so often. Once you reach the front of the line, you then get told the rules by one of the workers and are released to start your scary journey. 

  Junior Averielle Molina stated, “Haunted Haven is a fun place to go with friends on the weekend for a perfect Halloween activity filled with terror and exciting memories.” It is a very thrilling haunted house to go to. Overall Haunted Haven is a very good option, especially if you are looking to stay close to home. 

  Another option to stay around the area is Hells Horror. Hells Horror is located in Rock Falls, Ill., and is also $15 a person. When you arrive you find a parking spot, get a wristband, and get in line. 

  At Hells Horror, they scare you in and out of line. Before you go in the house they have to play a video and explain the rules to you, after that you are able to go in the house. 

  After visiting Hells Horror, junior Kloe Foreman shared, “They chased my group out with a chainsaw and it was very scary but made it worth it”.

  If you are wanting to go an hour or more away, here is an option, the 13th Floor Haunted House. The 13th Floor Haunted House is located in Schiller Park, Ill. Tickets start at $19.99 and it is a Halloween-themed hunt.

  The Haunted house theme for 2025 is a post-apocalypse “Dead City.” It is very intense and it is recommended for anyone above 12. Overall the 13th Floor is a strong option if you are looking to drive a little ways for a good scare.  

  In the end, whether you’re looking to stay local or take a road trip, these haunted houses provide a fun and frightening experience to make many unforgettable memories with your friends.