Attention Halloween fanatics: it’s not Halloween if you’re not celebrating in Boston! This bustling city is widely known for its haunted houses, old graveyards, and spooky state-of-the-art events and shows. They even have costume contests for pets and people alike. The best part? They don’t celebrate in just one night - it’s a month long celebration! Get ready for some massive fun and check out these things to do for a Halloween in Boston, Massachusetts.
Halloween events to look out for
Franklin Park Zoo’s “Zoo Howl” is a family-friendly event featuring trick-or-treating, crafts, and costume contests at the Franklin Park Zoo. This event is held in the month of October.
The Boston Costume Dash is a festive 5K run held in October where participants dress up in Halloween costumes, followed by a post-race party.
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Most haunted locations in Boston
Boston is home to numerous eerie and haunted locations that are perfect for experiencing paranormal activities. We’ve handpicked the best spots and curated a list just for you.
Omni Parker Hotel: According to the hotel’s official website, the ghost of the owner Harvey Parker still haunts this hotel and several guests and staff have reported seeing his apparitions in the past.
King’s Chapel Burying Grounds: According to this article in Prosper Magazine, the city’s oldest burial ground is known to have reported several paranormal activities in the past.
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground: Named after the shoemaker, William Copp, this is the second oldest burial ground in Boston. It’s reported that many spirits are roaming here, mostly of those departed souls who were not rested here peacefully.
Boston Common: CBS News has listed Boston Common as one of the most haunted places in the city along with several others. It’s believed that two women dressed up in 19th-century clothing are often spotted here walking arm in arm.
Fort Warren: A woman in black who was executed as a spy while she was trying to help her new husband escape is often seen haunting this place.
Cutler Majestic Theatre: This theater is home to several ghosts, including a former mayor who died here while watching a performance. Interestingly, there is no record of any mayor dying here and no one has figured out which mayor was this ghost. You may also find the ghost of a couple watching a play or that of a little girl who accepts gifts left for her.
Halloween tours and experiences in Boston
1. Embark on an interesting ghosts and gravestones hunt tour
Ready for a little ghost and gravestone hunt? Catch this ghost and gravestones walking (or maybe running) tour around Boston’s ghostly locations! Expect to see the darker side of the city while walking amongst the dead in the 400-year-old burial. You’ll also be listening to ghost stories and local tales of all things scary like murder, ghosts, and ghouls. Step on the burying grounds of famous grave sites of John Hancock, Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and others and be ready for a blood-curdling adventure. We warn you though, it is not for the faint of heart! I am already excited about this tour and will surely try it when I visit Boston.
Since there will be a lot of walking, travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothes as per the weather. The tour is perfect for anyone aged 13 and older, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
Haunted stops:
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
Granary Burying Ground
What guests are saying about this tour:
“This tour was great! Fun and funny with spooky stories and a bit of Boston history. I have done ghost tours in other cities, but this was my favorite. I really liked the trolley, the cemeteries, and our guide. Highly recommend!” - by Elise (United States)
Book Tours : Boston: 1.5-Hour Ghosts and Gravestones Tour
2. Official Halloween bar crawl
As an explorer, I am always thrilled to learn something new. If you’re like me, know more about the haunted history of Boston in this two-hour tour where you’ll visit four pubs and five haunted locations. Begin your tour by sharing a drink with the ghost of John F. Kennedy at the 21st Amendment. After that, visit the Omni Parker House Hotel where the ghost of a notorious liquor salesman will welcome you outside room 303. Your guide will then share the details of the life and death of Sam Adams at the Beantown Pub before wrapping up the tour at the 17th-century Granary Burying Ground cemetery.
Be sure to dress appropriately, as the tour operates in all weather, and wear comfortable shoes.
Haunted stops:
21st Amendment
Omni Parker House Hotel
Granary Burying Ground (third oldest graveyard in Boston)
What guests are saying about this tour:
“The tour was great! Very knowledgeable tour guide!”
Book Tours : Boston: Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl
Boston Tour Guide
Naim Benmayor
As a Boston tour guide, I have the added experience of being a world traveler. For many years, I frequently visited Europe, Asia, and Latin America on business. During this time, I also organized tours of the USA, Europe and Asia for my business clients. I now bring this passion, excitement and expertise to the Boston area.By exploring the globe, I was exposed to various cultures, and this uniq... Read more
3. Titanic Masquerade - Pier Pressure Boston Halloween Party
Remember the ball in the movie Titanic? Well, you can experience something like that but only Halloween themed! Imagine the boat that sank hundreds of years ago and relive those old days. Join the Pier Pressure Boston Halloween Party in a luxurious yacht sailing in Boston Harbor. You’re definitely going to feel the “The Spirit of Boston” while partying to the performances of Boston’s famous DJs. Come in a costume and mask and prepare for the ultimate Halloween party cruise of the year. While traveling, I am always thrilled to try something new, and will surely partake in this costume Halloween part during my stay.
Titanic Masquerade - Pier Pressure Boston Halloween Party
Address: Spirit of Boston Yacht, 200 Seaport Blvd., Boston, MA 02210, United States
Website: Titanic Masquerade - Pier Pressure Boston Halloween Party
4. Be prepared for a spooky evening ghost tour
If you’re up for it, why not take an evening ghost tour for a change! This is sure to spook you and your friends this Halloween. You’ll be walking amongst the haunted part of Boston in the downtown area while your guide brings you to the famous (or infamous) spots of the city. Expect to hear more death and ghost stories like the story of the Boston Strangler and Boston Massacre. Keep your eyes open as you might even see or take a photo of paranormal activities in person. The tour starts at 8 PM but this tour is guaranteed to keep you up, alert, and awake!
This tour will have a maximum of 40 people and is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Also, you can easily reach here as it’s closer to public transportation.
What guests are saying about this tour:
“The tour was very good, not too short and not too long. Very informative even if you don’t believe. Great for people of all ages, keep it going” - by jsthod
Book Tours : Boston's Best Ghost Tour
5. Spooky true crime guided walking tour
Get into the spooky world of Boston’s dark past on this two-hour true crime tour. It’s led by a US Ghost Adventures guide, who will tell you shocking stories of serial killers, gangs, and schemers. There are 13 crime stories in total, including those of the infamous Ponzi Scheme and one of America’s first serial killers, Jane Toppan. Walk the historic streets of Boston, hear about unsolved murders and mind-blowing mysteries, and explore the city’s 400-year history of executions, duels, and scandals. For true crime fans, this is both educational and chilling. I feel this tour is one of the best ways to learn more about Boston’s past as well as meet new people, and I would love to experience this tour when I am in the city!
Be sure to dress appropriately as the tour is operated in all weather. Since there’s a bit of walking, it’s advised to wear comfortable shoes.
What guests are saying about this tour:
“interesting stories told with enthusiasm by the guide. different sort of city tour to do and would recommend.” - by Jill (United Kingdom)
Book Tours : Boston: In Cold Blood True Crime Guided Walking Tour
6. Haunted pub crawl of historic pubs and taverns
Join a haunted pub crawl in Boston and explore the city’s Revolutionary War history. Over two hours, you’ll visit the taverns and pubs where John Hancock and John Adams hung out.
Accompanied by a small group and a great guide, hear all about the dirty secrets of the past and see Boston’s haunted side. Walk the same streets where the fight for independence took place and see some of the oldest cemeteries in the country. For some liquid courage, grab a Boston Lager.
Note the tour is suitable for guests above 21 years of age and travelers are advised to carry their ID cards and wear comfortable shoes.
What guests are saying about this tour:
“So much fun! Had a great night. The tour guide was very knowledgeable.” - by Olivia (United States)
7. Dog-friendly Halloween costume & sightseeing cruise
Celebrate Halloween with your fur baby on this Boston Harbor cruise, where you’ll take in breathtaking views of the Boston Skyline, USS Constitution, and Bunker Hill Monument. Dress up your dog and join the costume parade for a chance to win fantastic prizes. Later, you can dance with your dog on the dance floor to the music provided by a DJ. This event offers a fun and laid-back way to enjoy Halloween, socialize, admire the sights, and grab some light snacks and drinks from the cash bar. I feel this event is a fun way to spend your Halloween with your precious pooch!
Remember to keep your dog on a leash during the entire cruise. Also, the tour takes place in all weather, so dress accordingly. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited on this tour.
8. Get enchanted with the witch city of Salem and Marblehead tour
Explorers like me can take a tour of Salem and Marblehead! These historic cities are known for the Witch Trials of 1600s and the birthplace of the American Navy. It’s not as spooky as you hoped it would be, but this is something definitely worth a look at. The place definitely has an ancient and unique vibe to it. Be sure to catch the famous original 7’’ x 10’’ oil painting titled “The Spirit of ‘76” and check out interesting places related to the Witch Trials.
Since you’ll be exploring the city on your own, it’s advisable to check with the attractions and book the tickets in advance. This tour can accommodate a maximum of 23 travelers.
Haunted and eerie stops:
Salem Old Town Hall (earliest surviving municipal structure in Derby Square)
Ropes Mansion and Garden
Salem Witch Museum
The House of the Seven Gables
Salem Witch Village
What guests are saying about this tour:
“trip was great. Bob was very knowledgeable of the history and explained lots of places and facts of area. would recommend this tour and Bob” - by agnes_c
9. Halloween Crypt Tours at King's Chapel
Another one for the history lovers is this Halloween Crypt Tour at the King’s Chapel. Learn about King’s Chapel history, the 18th-century crypt and even go and see the tower holding the largest bell Paul Revere. Their tailored visitor program is sure to provide an educational experience on old Boston, theology, and architecture of the church. Although they provide daily tours the whole year-round, better book tickets fast since they are usually sold out months before!
Halloween Crypt Tour
Address: King’s Chapel
Website: Halloween Crypt Tour
10. Spend an evening enjoying a murder mystery
What is a 3-course dinner without a little murder mystery? Boston’s original Murder Mystery Dinner Theater can give you just that. Enjoy an interactive performance from the comfort of your own table. You can even enjoy your 3-course meal while solving the crime! You are definitely going to enjoy the next 2.5 hours just by watching and helping the cast and crew solve the murder mystery. Prepare your thinking skills as well as your tummy for one great time!
The tour is for a small intimate group of six travelers and the dress code at the venue is smart casual.
What guests are saying about this tour:
“… What an entertaining and hilarious good time. Loved all of the characters and the food was very enjoyable. Would definitely recommend”- by Aunt Di
11. Set your adrenaline pumping with this zombie scavengers game
What better way to spend your holiday by being chased by relentless zombies? This Zombie Scavengers Game will let you circle in the city while scavenging for food, supplies, weapons, and shelter. Take note that you’ll be using your smartphone for this interactive game so expect to be asked to do some challenges or answer trivia questions for rewards. Yes, rewards include holding off the zombies! The more things and challenges you get right, the more you are likely to survive.
This is a private tour and is not suitable for wheelchair-accessible travelers. Travelers are requested to have a moderate physical fitness level.
Book Tours : Zombie Scavengers Game - Boston, MA
Other activities to enjoy on Halloween in and near Boston
12. Downtown Freedom Trail Walking Tour
To all the history lovers, we’re not leaving you behind! Spend Halloween in Boston by exploring Boston’s Freedom Trail complete with an informative and friendly professional tour guide! Walk among the cobblestone streets and appreciate the architecture and past of this stunning destination. The walking tour will also include stops in the Faneuil Hall, King’s Chapel, and Boston Commons. If time permits, you can also visit the Old South Meeting House, Old Granary Cemetery, Old City Hall, the First Schoolhouse, and Old Corner Bookstore where famous authors like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Charles Dickens once gathered. I feel it’s the perfect way to see the city and I will surely book this tour whenever I visit Boston!
The tour takes a maximum of 20 people and operates in all weathers. It offers easy access as it’s close to public transportation.
Haunted and eerie stops:
Faneuil Hall
King’s Chapel
Boston Common
Old Granary Cemetery
Old State House
Boston Massacre
What guests are saying about this tour:
“Great walking tour down the freedom trail. Excellent history refresher. Our guide was friendly and informative.” - by ShannonH
“Our guide was brilliant, made history come to life for us, great and humorous way of giving information to us. Highlights were the Boston massacre, Mount Vernon, the park and common, finally the church by the library.” - by KelvinS
13. Haunted Neighborhood at the Salem Wax Museum
Explore the famous “epicenter of Halloween” and go see the Haunted Neighborhood at the Salem Wax Museum! Located on a dead-end street across the Peabody Essex Museum and next to the Tricentennial Witch Trials Memorial and The Charter Street Old Burying point, this haunted neighborhood is as spooky as those buildings beside it. A tip - go during the night time for that extra scare!
Haunted stops:
- Haunted Neighborhood
Tour details
Halloween in Salem, starts at The Haunted Neighborhood!
Address: 288 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970
What guests are saying about this tour:
“The wax museum is a history lesson of the local area and personalities. The costumes were accurate. Some of the figures were creepy and seemed ready to move!” - by Laurie Montour
Come alive this Halloween in Boston
Witness how Boston transforms into one spooky city this Halloween 2018! There are several things to do here whether you’re in for partying, ghost hunting, or historical walking tours. Immerse yourself in witch culture and solve mysteries and scavenger hunts like your life depended on it (it might) and be sure to book one or two activities or tours in Boston from our list for an unforgettable Halloween!
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