Wander Minnesota: Get Your Boo On
While the jury's still out on what kind of weather we're going to have for Halloween this year, there are myriad opportunities to explore the scary and not-so-scary aspects of the annual fright fest.
Who knows -- maybe ski season will be upon us by Halloween this year? But just in case that doesn't come to pass, Buck Hill Ski Resort in Burnsville presents Frightmares at Buck Hill, open weekends (and some weekdays) through Halloween. Visit the Orchard Manor Dead and Breakfast, the Fright Factory, the Bellharm-Lovejoy Asylum and the Haunted Hollow. Live music on weekends -- but is it really live?
In its fourth year, the Soap Factory in Minneapolis is generating a lot of buzz with its Haunted Basement. This is not your run-of-the-mill haunted house attraction; before taking the tour, you'll need to sign a waiver. For those who'd like to see it without being scared, 'Fraidy Cat Tours will be offered the afternoons of 10/24 and 10/31. Buy tickets now -- some tours are selling out.
Shakopee's ValleySCARE, known during the summer as Valleyfair, kicks it into high gear for the Halloween season. Open Friday-Sunday (and Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 20-22) through Oct. 31, you have the choice of gentle Halloween fun during the day (think Trick or Treat Trails and coloring contests for the young ones, as well as the children's rides) to more intense events after dark. Rides are available as well for those who find roller coasters more terrifying than any old ghost or goblin. Valleyfair season pass holders can use their pass for admittance.
Also in Shakopee is the Trail of Terror Fest, offered Thursday-Sunday Oct 14- 31. Haunted hayrides. Indoor maze (3/4 mile). Bonfires. The Halls of Horror. Hypnotists. Mechanical bull rides. A multi-course Phantom's Feast (reservations strongly recommended). A 3D circus and Phobia Frights, and new this year, the Monster Truck Ride and Hollywood Horror Corn Maze. This one is for the serious scare fans.
The Minnesota Historical Society is always a good bet for a unique take on a holiday, with several special events planned. Some popular annual events include Shadows and Spirits of the State Capitol, and the James J. Hill House's Victorian Ghost Stories. Call ahead, as some events require registration.
At the Mall of America, Nickelodeon Universe hosts Blackout. Black light atmosphere, glow-in-the-dark tattoos, and Halloween costume contests.
If all of this isn't enough for you, then venture out to Anoka, which bills itself as the Halloween Capital of the World. They take Halloween very seriously. A two-week celebration includes parades, Ghosts of Anoka walking tours, wine tastings, orange tie ball, costume contests, a gray ghost run, live music, and parades. See website for specifics.
What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.
