As Halloween approaches, options abound across the region to get in the All Hallow’s Eve spirit. To help plot out all of the activities, below are some of the best events for both younger children and harder-to-impress teens, as well as some fun events for a range of ages.
For Younger Children
If you’re hoping to keep it family-friendly this fright night, here are some options without the scare overload.
The Magic House Not-So-Haunted House | October 3–26
Kiddos of all ages can dress up in their Halloween best to participate in an exciting trick-or-treat scavenger hunt throughout the Magic House. While there, guests can explore the museum to complete their collection of signatures from iconic storybook characters. Trick-or-treat bags and autograph books are provided upon entry. Included with regular museum admission. 516 S. Kirkwood.
Grant’s Farm Halloween Nights | October 2–30
On weekends (Thursdays–Sundays) in October, embark on an evening tram ride to see festive Halloween scenes including live actors, spooky lights, decor, and more. You’ll eventually land at the Tier Garten, where daytime activities will be available in addition to spooky shows, a monster mash dance party, and a scare zone. Admission is $12; kids 3 and under are free. Parking tickets are $17 in advance. Purchase a Fun Pass in advance for $12, which includes a carousel ride, a popsicle, and two goat feedings. 7385 Grant.
Fright at the Museum City Museum | October 1–October 26
With plenty of space to explore, the City Museum is a self-described “realm of oddities and curiosities.” Through October 26, check out the live entertainment as contortionists and fire dancers push the boundaries of human possibility. Don’t miss the carefully curated exhibits, which will leave you curious and curiouser. When it’s time for refreshments, visit the Vampire Bar for a signature blood bag cocktail or the Coven & Cauldron witches’ pub. See website for prices and passes. 750 N. 16th.
Read More: A guide to fall family fun in St. Louis
Saint Louis Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo | October 16–30
Snap selfies at Kraken Cove, Extraterrestrial Encounter, and Pumpkin Palooza. Visit the herpetarium and insectarium to see creepy, crawly things that go bump in the night. Family-friendly costumes are encouraged. Don’t miss the boo-tique and a chance to ride the nighttime Emerson Zooline Railroad. Nightly from 5–8:30 p.m.; October 14 is sensory-friendly night. See website for prices. 1 Government.
St. Charles Legends & Lanterns | October 11–26
Witches, villains, phantoms, and ghosts (if you’re lucky) come out in historic St. Charles as it celebrates its 10th year. Hear tales about the area’s ghoulish past, and enjoy frightening fun for the whole family. Younger children will relish wandering through Scarecrow Glen at Kister Park, partaking in the Scaredy Cat Scavenger Hunt, and checking out the Pumpkin Glow. Teens and adults will enjoy the self-guided Haunted History Trail, where you can discover Edgar Allan Poe’s connection to St. Charles and hear ghost stories. Or stop by the Katy Train Depot in Frontier Park to celebrate the “Golden Age of Monster Movies” from the 1930s–1950s. The Grimm Brothers, kings of Germanic folklore, have taken their act on the road, with a museum of curiosities and oddities at the Old Post Office. Free admission. Main Street St. Charles.
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station’s Pirates and Pumpkins | September 19-November 2
A spooky pirate-inspired theme sets sail at the St. Louis Aquarium this season. On Saturdays from 5–7 p.m., visitors can enjoy trick-or-treating, learn to talk like a pirate, and discover treasure caves and ghost ships. 201 S. 18th.
‘BOO’terfly House at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House | October 1–31
Throughout October, the Butterfly House shines a spotlight on the bugs and plants often perceived as spooky: tarantulas, scorpions, roaches, and the like, as well as carnivorous plants in their Tropical Conservatory. Along with the monthlong displays, there are several spooky events as well, including Wicked Wings and Wine (October 17, 5:30–7:30 p.m.) and the Jack O’Lantern Trail in Faust Park (October 24 & 25). See website for details. Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, 15050 Olive Faust Park, Chesterfield.
Big Joel’s Spooky Safari | September 25–October 31
Big Joel’s Safari owners Joel and Mimi deck out the park and petting zoo for Halloween. See your favorite furry friends: capybaras, kangaroos, camels, zebras, lemurs, prairie dogs, and more during regular operating hours on weekends and weekdays. $12 for ages 13 and up, $10 for ages 2–12, free for kids under age 2. 13187 State Hwy. M, Wright City.
Lenhard Family Halloween Light Show | October 3, October 10–31
Looking for something free and low-key? Visit Larry Crites Memorial Park in Festus for this seasonal light show, featuring more than 150,000 lights and corresponding music broadcast on 99.7 FM. Opening night is scheduled on October 3. 2232-2292 Old State Highway A, Festus. 7:30 p.m.–10 p.m.
See Also: 10 St. Louis pumpkin patches to visit this fall
For Teenagers and Adults
Trunk or treats are thrilling for so many years. Here are a few options that’ll show your eye-rolling teens you’re more than a basic witch (or warlock).
Eckert’s Jack’s Lighted Trail | September 13–November 1
Ever the fall experience experts, Eckert’s has unveiled a brand-new attraction this season designed for all ages but inspired by the hope to bring older kids, teens, and young adults out to the farm. The new nighttime novelty is a hard path accessed by wagon ride that includes a half mile of pumpkin sculptures, thematic photo opportunities, and festive surprises, including a Spook-Easy for those of cocktail age. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance; they are expected to sell out. eckerts.com
Spirits of Soulard Ghost Tour | September 27
The inaugural Spirits of Soulard Ghost Tour, which begins at Pieces Board Game Bar & Restaurant (2727 St. 12th), will introduce adults ages 18 and older to the area’s spookiest spots. The tour takes two hours and covers 10 blocks, from a former Civil War hospital site to a 1870s mansion, all led by residents who are well-acquainted with the neighborhood’s haunted history. soulard.org/soulard-ghost-tour
Creepyworld, The Darkness, Lemp Brewery Haunted House | Through November 2
If you’re looking for chills and thrills, look no further than Scarefest’s over-the-top offerings. The Darkness, Creepyworld, and the Lemp Brewery are always sure to deliver scares. Explore 13 haunts in one spot at Creepyworld screampark, with new attractions this season including a Monster Mansion, a Horror Selfie Museum, and an updated hayride. In addition to its haunted house, The Darkness, in its 32nd year, offers a Monster Museum, a Horror Retail Store, an arcade, and retro mini golf. And at the historic Lemp brewery, traverse a fright-inducing underground maze with “new screams, scenes, animations, monsters and more.” See website for details.
Fright Fest at Six Flags | Select nights September 13–November 2
The popular festival is back with live performances, four haunted houses, and six scare zones in addition to all of the fan-favorite rides at night. And for little ones, the daytime Boo Fest is ideal for family-friendly Halloween fun, with Halloween-themed activities such as a straw maze, Trick-or-Treat Trail, and more. See website for details. Six Flags, 4900 Six Flags, Eureka.
Read more: 5 ghost tours even your teen will think are scary cool
Frights at Height | September 27 and Fridays and Saturdays in October
For those who have no fear (especially of heights), head to Treetop Journey zipline and ropes course on Fridays or Saturdays for a one-hour nighttime adventure filled with zombies, ghosts, and ghouls in the form of live actors and animatronics. If you want the height without the fright, visit during the day, and find additional fall-themed activities including pumpkin painting, scavenger hunts, and costume contests. Recommended for ages 10 and up. See website for details. Go Ape! Zipline and Adventure Park, 13219 Streetcar.
Located next to The Darkness in Soulard, these escape rooms include such spooky themes as a haunted mansion, Dracula’s Castle, Frankenstein’s Castle, and Blackbeard’s Revenge. Once you’ve solved the puzzles, take in 18 holes of blacklight mini golf. See website for details. 1517 South 8th.
Delve into immersive, story-driven adventures at Adventures of Intrigue, an open-concept escape room with no doors and no time limits. With a library of themed experiences to explore, groups can unwind mysteries by interacting with cast members, solving puzzles, and uncovering clues at their own pace. Check out their eerier offerings for the Halloween season, from classic whodunits in Murder at the Manor to ghostly investigations in If These Walls Could Talk. On October 17, attend a “wizarding ball,” as well as special games, scavenger hunts, and events throughout the season. 2400 S. Jefferson.
This City Foundry STL storefront takes the zombie hunt to the next level with a virtual haunted house experience that will have your group battling your way through a derelict medical facility full of mind-bending horrors or a small town in the middle of the zombie apocalypse. Rates are $50–$60 per guest for groups up to six.
See Also: 10 corn mazes to visit near St. Louis
Mark Your Calendar
Missouri History Museum’s Ghost Stories and Guitars
When: October 23, 5–8 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: Dress in your costume and get ready to do the monster mash at the Missouri History Museum’s musical night of Halloween festivities. Along with live performances of the season’s spookiest hits, prepare to gather around the bonfire and hear bone-chilling tales of our city’s haunted history. Free tarot card and palm readings are available throughout the night as well.
Where: Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell
Cost: Free to attend.
National Museum of Transportation’s Trick-or-Track
When: October 18
Who: All ages
What: Train fanatics will love exploring the grounds of the auto-themed museum. By day, those 10 and under can participate in costumed trick-or-treating. In the evenings, see Serengeti Steve and his reptiles, or take miniature train rides in the dark.
Where: National Museum of Transportation, 2933 Barrett Station
Cost: Daytime activities are included with museum admission. Evening activities are $10 per guest. Advance reservations required.
The Great GO! St. Louis Halloween Race
When: October 18: Great PUPkin Run at 4 p.m., 5K at 5 p.m., and fun run at 6 p.m.; October 19: 10K and half marathon at 7 a.m.
Who: All ages; must be at least 12 years old to participate in the half marathon and 10K; must be 6 years or older to participate in the 5K; fun run and The Great PUPkin run are open to all ages
What: If you have an active kiddo—or maybe just one who needs to burn off some energy—consider either the 5K or the 1-mile fun run, taking place in Eureka. Four-legged family members can join for The Great PUPkin Run, a one-mile costume dog walk. Each comes with a long-sleeve T-shirt and medal for participants, as well as a post-race bag of goodies. Don’t skip the costume contest, with prizes awarded to the winners. Longer-distance runners have to wait until the next morning to take on the 10K or half marathon routes.
Cost: 5K registration is $45, The Great PUPkin registration is $35, and fun run registration is $25. 10K registration is $55 and half marathon registration is $75. See GO! St. Louis’ website for information about packet pickup and race site.
Missouri Botanical Garden’s Ghouls in the Garden
When: October 26, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Who: Members of the Missouri Botanical Garden
What: Enjoy a special trick-or-treating event throughout the garden, costumed characters, a circus, music, dancing, and more.
Where: Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw
Cost: Admission is free with Missouri Botanical Garden membership; registration is required.
Movie in the Park: Goosebumps 2
When: October 21, 6:30 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: Grab dinner from one of the food trucks at nearby Frankie Martin’s Garden, find a spot at Legacy Park, and enjoy a Halloween family-favorite movie on the outdoor screen.
Where: Cottleville Weldon Spring Rotary Amphitheater, Legacy Park, 5490 5th, Cottleville
Cost: Free, with popcorn available to purchase.
Pumpkin Glow at Des Peres Park
When: October 3, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: At sunset, launch Jack-O-Lanterns onto Des Peres Pond. Enter to launch, or just stop by to watch the festivities and roast s’mores.
Where: Des Peres Park, 12352 Manchester
Cost: $15 for members and residents; $18 for non-residents
Frightfully Spooky Lanterns workshop at the Foundry Art Center
When: October 4, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Who: Children ages 7–12
What: In this hour-and-a-half session, students learn to build and glaze a clay lantern just in time for Halloween.
Where: The Foundry Art Centre, 520 N. Main Center, St. Charles
Cost: $40
Party in the Patch at Shaw Park
When: Friday, October 17, 6–8 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: Join the Brentwood and Clayton Parks and Rec departments for a fun-filled evening of candy-hunting, hot dogs, hayrides, inflatables, crafts, games, and activities.
Where: Shaw Park, 27 S. Brentwood, Clayton
Cost: $12 in advance
Owl Fest at Treehouse Wildlife Center
When: October 18 & 19, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: Part festival, part open house, Owl Fest is a two-day event in which attendees get a behind-the-scenes look at the Treehouse Wildlife Center. Don’t miss the teddy bear clinic, pumpkin painting, live music, raffle, vendors, and more.
Where: Treehouse Wildlife Center, 23956 Green Acres, Dow, Illinois.
Cost: Free
Brentwood Ice Rink Halloween Skate
When: Friday, October 24, 7–10 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: Grab your most boo-tiful costume for a spooky ice-skating session. Prizes go to the best costume.
Where: 2505 S. Brentwood
Cost: $8 resident, $10 non-resident, $2 skate rental
Halloween Hustle and Party in Lake Saint Louis
When: October 24, 5:30 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: This 1K run or walk travels through the decorations in Founders Park. It ends with a Halloween party, including bounce houses, pony rides, face painting, and more.
Where: 7 Freymuth, Lake Saint Louis
Cost: $20 per person $2 off for each additional person
Jack O’Lantern Trail at Faust Park
When: October 24, 6 p.m.–9 p.m.; October 25, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: Let the Jack O’Lanterns guide your hike as you trick-or-treat the Faust Historic Village in the dark before taking a ride on the St. Louis Carousel, exploring the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly house, playing games, and enjoying more fall activities.
Where: 15050 Faust Park, Chesterfield
Cost: $12 per person ages 2 and up, tickets must be purchased in advance
When: October 25, 11 a.m.–midnight; 11 a.m. kids party and parade, noon–trick or treating, 1 p.m. dog parade, 2 p.m.–6 p.m. live music, 6 p.m.–midnight adults only
Who: Kids in the morning, adults in the evening
What: A kids’ costume parade, dance party, pumpkin decorating, crafts, trick-or-treating, dog costume parade, live music, street performers, flash mobs, fire dancers–you name it, this day is chock full of spooktacular fun, starting with the kids in the day and aimed at adults after sunset.
Where: Central West End, near Maryland Plaza and Euclid Avenue
Cost: Free
A Musical Halloween Costume Parade in Francis Park
When: October 31, 5:30 p.m.
Who: All ages
What: Musical Halloween costume parades are the stuff of kids’ books, but Laren Loveless, host of the popular “Music and Me” early childhood music classes, is making it happen in real life. Come for the parade, and stay to trick-or-treat in one of St. Louis’ most festive neighborhoods.
Where: 5300 Donovan. Parade participants will meet at Rockwell Beer Garden and travel around the Francis Park lily pond.
Cost: Free
See Also: A guide to fall family fun in St. Louis | 10 St. Louis spots for adults to celebrate Halloween
Over-the-top Halloween light displays worth the drive
Scroll below to see Halloween light routes from Holiday Light Hopping. Click on “more options” on the map to see the full route:
North County:
Central Suburbs:
Ballwin and Creve Coeur:
Affton and St. Louis City:
St. Charles County:
South County:
Halloween night only:
