New York is transformed into a veritable horror playground during the Halloween season. From terrifying modern attractions to authentic haunts, the Big Apple offers a unique experience for thrill-seekers. Here’s your complete guide to an unforgettable Halloween in the city that never sleeps.
Must-see haunted houses
Blood Manor: the ultimate terror experience
Address: 359 Broadway, Manhattan
Period: 3 October to 8 November
Duration: approximately 15 to 20 minutes (depending on your level of fright!)
Recommended age: 14 (under 14s must be accompanied)
Groups: maximum 6 people per group
Website: bloodmanor.com
Blood Manor remains the benchmark for haunted houses in New York after more than two decades in existence. This 10,000-square-foot attraction plunges you into a labyrinth of chilling rooms, spooky corridors and terrifying surprises.
Highlights:
- A team of professional actors specializing in sudden frights
- State-of-the-art special effects that blend reality and fantasy
- Total immersive experience where you no longer know what’s real
- Booking required with time slots
Tip: book your tickets in advance, as this attraction often sells out!
Haunted NYC Bank: new in 2025
Address: 415 Broadway, SoHo
Period: 22 September to 2 November 2025
Duration: approx. 30 minutes
Recommended age: 10 (under 16 accompanied by an adult)
Accessibility: ADA compliant
Website: hauntedbanknyc.com
The latest horror attraction takes up residence in a real abandoned bank in SoHo. The experience tells the story of the “Broadway Heist”, a failed bank robbery in the 1980s that left a bloody trail. According to legend, the bankers claimed that the safe was unusually cold and witnesses swore that the dead never really left.
The unique concept: this attraction combines a haunted house, an immersive theatre and a “nightmare safe”. Unlike traditional haunted houses, you’re not just a visitor – you’re trapped in the story.
The terrifying tour :
- Counter room where everything turns to horror
- CEO’s office marked by betrayal
- Safe in the middle of a robbery with masked criminals
- Mining tunnel clawed by an inhuman creature
- Dark alleyway and bloody butchery in the streets of New York
- A dilapidated hospital wing with a terrifying nurse
The technical experience: more than 10 immersive experiences with interactive technology. Each room combines elaborate sets, frightening soundscapes and a team of actors who specialize in making you feel uncomfortable.
Ridgewood Asylum: the interactive experience
Location: 272 Seigel St, Brooklyn NY 11206
Period: 10 October to 1 November
Website: theridgewoodasylum.com
This interactive haunted house features escape game elements and carefully crafted plots. Unlike conventional commercial attractions, Ridgewood Asylum focuses on storytelling and detail rather than just scares.
Authentic haunted places to visit
Merchant’s House Museum
Address: 29 East Fourth Street, Noho
Website: merchantshouse.org
This historic 19th-century house is said to still be inhabited by Gertrude Tredwell, the last member of the family to live there until 1933. Museum staff regularly report paranormal phenomena: strange visions, unexplained sounds and mysterious smells.
And don’t forget: ghost tours are regularly organized to explore paranormal activity.
Morris-Jumel Mansion
Location: 65 Jumel Terrace, Washington Heights
Website: morrisjumel.org
The oldest house in Manhattan hides many secrets. Formerly George Washington‘s headquarters, it is said to house several spirits:
- Eliza Bowen Jumel, the scandalous former owner of the house
- A mysterious soldier
- A young girl of unknown origins
A unique experience: take part in the paranormal investigation sessions organised on site.
House of Death
Address: West 10th Street, Greenwich Village
Website: nyghosts.com
This brownstone has witnessed many mysterious deaths. Writer Mark Twain is said to have been seen here by a medium, claiming to have “a problem to solve” before disappearing.
Haunted bars and restaurants
One if by Land, Two if by Sea
Location: 17 Barrow St, West Village
Website: oneifbyland.com
This ultra-romantic restaurant wasAaron Burr‘s former stable. The spirits ofAaron and his daughter Theodosia are said to wreak havoc here:
- Broken champagne glasses
- Paintings falling off the walls
- Theodosia steals customers’ earrings!
White Horse Tavern
Location: 567 Hudson St, West Village
Website: whitehorsetavern1880.com
This historic 1880 bar is said to be haunted by the poet Dylan Thomas, who literally drank himself to death here. His ghost continues to frequent his favourite table.
The Ear Inn
Location: 326 Spring Street, West Village
Website: theearinn.com
One of the city’s oldest establishments is home to Mickey, a sailor who died after being hit by a car outside the bar. He mainly makes his presence felt by flirting with the customers!
Practical tips for Halloween in NYC
Planning
- Book in advance: popular attractions such as Blood Manor sell out quickly
- Check the age restrictions: some attractions are not recommended for under-14s
- Wear suitable clothing: some experiences involve walking and movement
Budget and schedules
- Time slots: most attractions are booked in advance
- Combine experiences: visit the historic haunts during the day and the haunted houses in the evening
- Transport: the sites are well served by public transport
Safety
- Read the rules: each attraction has its own safety instructions
- Interaction with actors: find out about the rules for interaction
- Physical conditions: some experiences can be physically demanding
The complete Halloween experience
New York offers a unique opportunity to combine history and entertainment during Halloween. Start your day by visiting authentic haunts such as the Merchant’s House Museum or the Morris-Jumel Mansion to learn about the city’s paranormal history.
At night, immerse yourself in modern horror at Blood Manor or The Haunted Bank NYC. Finish your evening in one of the historic haunted bars for one last thrill, enjoying a cocktail in the company of ghosts!
Halloween in New York isn’t just about the attractions: it’s about delving into the dark and fascinating history of a city where the past continues to haunt the present. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a fan of paranormal history, the Big Apple has some unforgettable experiences in store for this season of spirits.
Happy Halloween in the city that never sleeps… but where some residents never rest in peace!