As the crisp autumn air settles in and Halloween approaches, Rochester transforms into a hub of spooky and thrilling events. Whether you're a fan of eerie tales, haunted history, or just looking for a fun family outing, Rochester has something for everyone this Halloween season. Here’s a roundup of the best Halloween activities around the area for 2024:
Spirits of the Past: A Walk in the Dark at Genesee Country Village & Museum
Embark on a chilling journey through the Historic Village by candlelight with Spirits of the Past: A Walk in the Dark. This year’s theme, "Myths & Monsters," promises to bring to life some of the most intriguing and spine-tingling legends. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience history with a haunted twist. Dates: October 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, & 27
Learn more and get tickets.
Mount Hope Cemetery Walking Tours: Mischief, Murder, and Mayhem II
Discover the darker side of Rochester’s past with the Mischief, Murder, and Mayhem II walking tour at Mount Hope Cemetery. This tour, held on October 26 from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm, introduces new stories of those who met grim fates or made their mark in peculiar ways. The tour is led by Dennis Carr, a knowledgeable guide who brings history to life with a spooky flair.
Tickets are $15, and children under 18 can join for free with an adult.
Get your tickets here.
Rochester Museum & Science Center | Family Fun Day: Tricks & Treats
Put on your favorite costume and visit the RMSC for some science tricks and delicious treats! Explore your favorite exhibits while stopping at trick or treat stations around the RMSC. Make slime, watch spooky science demos, and collect candy for some safe, Halloween fun.
When: October 27, 2024 | 11am–3pm
Link: https://rmsc.org/events/tricks-treats/
MAG's Museum of the Dead
Step into the Museum of the Dead at the Memorial Art Gallery (MAG) for a unique Halloween experience. This exhibition showcases eerie and macabre art pieces, exploring the themes of death and the supernatural in a museum setting. It’s a great way to delve into the darker aspects of art and history.
When: Friday, October 25, 2024 | 8-11 pm
Link: https://mag.rochester.edu/events/museum-of-the-dead/
Spooky Season at The Little
The Little Theatre is getting into the Halloween spirit with its Spooky Season events. Enjoy classic horror films and special Halloween screenings in a cozy, vintage setting. It’s a perfect way to experience the thrill of classic horror movies with a touch of nostalgia.
Link: https://thelittle.org/spooky/
Rolling Hills Asylum - Horror Movie, Nachos & Ghost Hunt
For a truly haunting experience, visit Rolling Hills Asylum, a renowned haunted location offering tours and events throughout October. Known for its paranormal activity and eerie atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts.
Link: https://www.rollinghillsasylum.com/calendar/2024/10
Rochester Candlelight Ghost Walks
Join the Rochester Candlelight Ghost Walks for a guided tour through some of the city’s most haunted locations. The tours offer a spine-chilling experience with tales of ghostly apparitions and mysterious happenings under the cover of darkness.
Link: https://www.rochesterghosts.com/home/ghost-walks
Landmark Society Ghost Walk
Explore the haunted history of Rochester with the Landmark Society Ghost Walk. This walking tour provides a historical perspective on local ghost stories, combining intriguing history with eerie encounters.
October 20, 2017 - October 21, 2017
Link: https://landmarksociety.org/event/ghost-walk/
Stokoe Farms - Harvest Fest 2024
It's Fall Y'all, and we are celebrating the season with our 24th Harvest Fest Season. Come out and join the area's favorite farm, Stokoe Farms for a day of ACTIVITIES, ANIMALS, WAGON RIDES, CORN MAZE, and so much more. Western New York's Largest Petting Zoo, Candy Cannon, Peanut's 75th Anniversary Corn Maze, and so much more.
Link: https://stokoefarms.com/pages/calendar
New York Museum of Transportation - Fall Foliage Trolley Ride
Enjoy the beauty of autumn in New York from the window of a vintage electric trolley car!
Link: http://nymtmuseum.org/Events.php
Bristol Mountain Sky Rides
Soak in the stunning autumn colors of the Finger Lakes as you ride the Comet Express chairlift to the top of Bristol Mountain. This serene 15-20 minute journey offers breathtaking views of the Bristol Hills and the valley below, making it a perfect experience for visitors of all ages.
When: Saturdays & Sundays through the fall | 12pm – 4pm
