Opened in 1858, the "Old Joliet Prsion" is said to be a haunted hotspot. Credit: keith_011764.
By Maria Mora
For a cheap Halloween getaway, you’ll find it hard to resist Windy City where cheap Chicago hotels, rustling leaves and cool fall temps and early bargains on holiday shopping deals are only half the reason to go. For me, it’s the many Halloween attractions that keep me coming back for more. Don’t take my word for it — plan your trip now and don’t miss these favorite Chicago Halloween celebrations.
Top Chicago Halloween attractions
- Fright Fest at Six Flags Great America: During weekends in October, thrilling Six Flags rides become haunted and the normally cheerful theme park becomes infested with wandering zombies. This year, don’t miss the “Love at First Fright” musical. Tickets are under $40 if purchased ahead of time.
- Old Joliet Prison Park: Nothing is quite as scary as the possibility of running into a real ghost in a haunted prison. Joliet Prison recently opened its gates to visitors. Call 1-877-4-JOLIET for the fall schedule.
- Corn mazes and haunted farms: Several farms outside of Chicago create elaborate corn mazes during the Halloween season. Bring the kids to an authentic working farm to pick apples, take pictures in a pumpkin patch, and get lost in corn towering as high as teen feet. Beware of creepy characters looking to scare the lights out of you.
- Seasonal craft beer on tap: For grownups, trick or treating can come in the form of sampling incredible fall microbrews. Chicago has a lively craft brew scene. Check out Goose Island’s Harvest Ale or Bourbon Country Vanilla Stout, both only available right around Halloween.
- Chicagoween: During the month of October, various parks and neighborhoods in Chicago host Halloween-themed events. Most are free to the general public. Visit explorechicago.org for the full schedule, including a zombie invasion at Navy Pier on October 8 and an Egyptian-themed festival in Hyde Park on October 28.
Cheap Chicago hotels
These five inexpensive hotels in Chicago don’t cut corners and have each earned high marks from me. You’ll be surprised at the comfortable accommodations, rates are very reasonable and the locations are central to so many Chicago attractions.
If you’re not sure where to stay on your Halloween getaway, start with one of these solid Chicago hotels.
Related resources
Maria Mora is a memoir blogger and wannabe photographer. She travels extensively throughout Florida and the Caribbean with her two young sons.