The Carolinas know how to do Halloween right. With historic settings, haunted trails, festive family-friendly events, and all the fall vibes in between, there is truly something for everyone. Whether you love a good scare or prefer a more light-hearted outing with the kids, here are some of the top Halloween experiences in North and South Carolina for this season.
👻 1. The 13th Acre – Monroe, NC (Scary)
Just east of Charlotte, this hauntingly immersive trail takes you through woods, barns and cornfields filled with surprises around every turn.
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Why go: Intense outdoor haunted experience with a true fall-farm atmosphere.
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Location: 3718 Plyler Mill Rd, Monroe, NC
🕯️ 2. Nightmare Hollow Haunted Trail – Spartanburg, SC (Scary)
In the Upstate region, near Spartanburg, this haunted trail winds through dark woods along the Tyger River — a solid pick for a full-on scare.
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Why go: One of the stronger haunt options close by; for families with younger children they reportedly offer a toned-down version.
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Location: 3411 Reidville Rd, Spartanburg, SC
🏙️ 3. Ghost Tours in Charlotte, NC (Spooky)
Right in the Charlotte area, you can join walking or cart tours that explore the city’s haunted past — from haunted hotels to old cemeteries and historic buildings. One example: the tour by Queen City Ghosts visits haunted sites like the Barringer Hotel and the Old Settlers’ Cemetery in Charlotte. Queen City Ghosts+1
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Why go: Convenient for residents and newcomers alike; combines local history with spooky stories.
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Location: Various locations around Charlotte, NC
🐅 4. Boo at the Zoo – Columbia, SC (Kid-Friendly)
A festive and fun Halloween event at the zoo – ideal for families and younger kids. Trick-or-treating, animal encounters, themed lights and plenty of family-friendly fun.
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Why go: Little-scary or not scary; very much suited for families.
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Location: 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC
🎃 5. Great Pumpkin Fest at Carowinds – Charlotte, NC (Kid-Friendly)
This daytime event offers a lighter, festive Halloween experience — ideal for younger families and kids who prefer fun over fright. With characters, pumpkin decor, trick-or-treating and fall ambiance, it’s a strong family outing near Charlotte.
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Why go: Local to Charlotte, family-oriented and less scary.
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Location: 300 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC
🌲 6. Ghosts of New Bern Tour – New Bern, NC (Spooky)
For a mix of history and the supernatural, New Bern offers a ghost-walking tour through its historic district — charming, atmospheric and just spooky enough.
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Why go: Southern charm meets ghostly stories; a more moderate scare level.
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Location: Downtown New Bern, NC
✨ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding chills, haunted trails close to home, or a sweet Halloween outing for the kids, the Carolinas deliver. From Charlotte-area haunts to family-friendly festivals and historic ghost tours, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy October.
At The Sears Group, we’re proud to serve clients who are exploring not just homes, but lifestyles — and what better time than now to highlight the seasonal magic of living in the Carolinas? If you’re relocating or looking for a community where Halloween can be embraced by all ages — we’re here to help make that move as seamless as possible.
