Indianapolis, a city known for its passion for racing and a cool arts scene, also boasts a rich history that has spawned its fair share of spooky, kooky fun. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly fright or a heart-pounding adrenaline rush, these scary attractions in Indianapolis offer something for everyone.
Hanna Haunted Acres
Hanna Haunted Acres is a local favorite for those seeking a classic haunted house experience. Just outside of Indianapolis proper, the scary fun begins the moment you walk under the arch, which I love. Scare actors roam the grounds and catch you when you least expect it. The are also a few photo ops to take advantage of, with or without a few creeps by your side.
There are four fun, indoor haunted houses that I test-drove, each just as highly decorated as the next. They’re not the 60-second-and-you’re-out style of a scary walkthrough, either: I was able to slowly walk through to get the feel and vibe of them. If I had to pick a favorite haunted house at HHA, it would have to be “Freakshow” thanks to a creepy carnival vibe and black lights.
As for the two outdoor haunts, Hanna Haunted Hayride is, and I don’t write this lightly, THE best spooky hayride I’ve ever been on. The fun begins while you’re loading and doesn’t end until you disembark from the wagon. The animatronics are outstanding, the scare actors are believable, and the lighting is perfect.
Newfields Harvest Nights
Newfields Harvest Nights offers a true family-friendly approach to Halloween fun. While the haunted house attractions are nowhere to be seen for younger audiences, there's still plenty of entertainment to be had. Truthfully, the sheer beauty of strolling through the gardens didn’t make me miss the fear factor at all.
There are a few attractions at Newfields worth noting, particularly around the Lily House. There’s a Mischief Manor walkthrough filled with creepy-ish decor that I enjoyed. Upstairs, should you choose to upgrade your ticket, there’s a VIP Lounge with a bar (a delight on super busy nights) and seating. Outside, a projection show on the house shows the property filled with spooks and specters, complete with a pretty soundtrack.
However, the gold star on the Harvest Nights chart is the Pumpkin Path of Peril beside the Garden Terrace. Countless (and I’m talking, countless) jack-o-lanterns are brightly lit on both sides of a walking path. It’s jaw-droppingly gorgeous and worth walking through twice if you have time.
Connor Prairie Headless Horseman Festival
A little part scary, but mostly delightfully fun, visit Connor Prairie during their Headless Horseman Festival. This living history museum transforms into a spooky wonderland, complete with costumed characters, haunted trails, and eerie campfire stories.
Yes, the true star of the event is the hay wagon ride through the woods and along the paths in the Prairie as this is the only way to see the Headless Horseman. Telling the story of poor Ichabod Crane, it comes to life in both the lighting and scare actors.
In addition to the ride, make sure you check out the puppet show (it was both funny and cool!), the scary campfire tales, and the magician show. There’s food and drink available for purchase as well.
Last, but definitely not least, if you’ve never been on the tethered hot air balloon ride, this is a perfect chance to do so. It’s fun to fly 370 feet in the air and spy the Headless Horseman event on a 360-degree platform.