The Perfect Halloween in Louisiana! By
Penny Fox
With a haunted history from a variety of cultural influences, Louisiana just might be one of the greatest places to celebrate Halloween in the U.S. From ghostly haunted houses and creepy wooded trails where creatures of the night come to life to taking a tour through the dark part of town that was once full of murder and death to shops where you can purchase everything to make your celebration complete, Louisiana has it all. Check out our suggestions for places and events that will perk your interest, fill a need, or send you home screaming.
1. The Candy Bank, Mandeville, LA
The Candy Bank in Mandeville is more than just a sweet place. It’s an experience. Visit the jelly belly station or pick out your favorite candies from when you were a kid. Sold by the ounce, these candies will put you in good shape for Halloween with treats to satisfy even the most discriminating tricksters.
2. Nikki’s French Quarter Halloween Store, New Orleans, LA
With a desire to create a sensational place that’s open year-round for anyone who enjoys dressing up, Nikki’s French Quarter Halloween Store in New Orleans meets the goal. From costumes and wigs to props and party supplies and decorations, you’ll find it here.
3. St. Louis Cemetery, New Orleans, LA
This seemingly serene cemetery is anything but peaceful at night. One of the oldest graveyards in the area, be prepared to see and hear things that will unnerve and frighten you. There are many spirits of the undead roaming about on moonlit nights, but one in particular is the VooDoo Queen, Marie Laveau. Don’t come alone!
4. The 13th Gate, Baton Rouge, LA
Known as one of the top haunted houses in the nation, the 13th Gate in Baton Rouge is your worst nightmare. Existing somewhere between reality and fantasy, the extremely detailed sets that make the 13th Gate the horror it is will take your breath away and leave you wondering about your sanity for weeks after you’ve been there. Not recommended for children, the faint of heart, or those anyone with a weak bladder.
5. Gators and Ghosts Tour, New Orleans, LA
Located in downtown New Orleans, one of the most haunted cities in the U.S., you’ll have your choice of three tours based on legend and reality. Your ghost adventure will take you into the dimly-lit streets and back alleys of New Orleans and into churches, hotels, and mansions where the unexplained has happened and still occurs. Vampires, ghosts, and other specters lurk there, waiting for you. Each tour starts in a local pub and drink specials are offered to fortify you for the adventure.
6. Fright Trail, Scott, LA
Can you make it safety through the 20-acre woods and escape the Loup Garou? Part werewolf, part man, this diabolical creature preys on the unsuspecting. Because this is an outdoor adventure, dress for the weather and wear good shoes or boots for running.
7. Louisiana State Museum, New Orleans, LA
Have you ever wondered about the significance of masks worn during Halloween or the celebration of Mardi Gras? Ever thought about how death and dying is handled in this part of the country with its mix of French, Spanish, and Cajun cultures? The Louisiana State Museum in New Orleans can offer insight into these topics and more. There are nine different locations, each with unique temporary and permanent exhibits. Contact the museum you want to visit for information on hours and exhibits.
8. The Mask Store, New Orleans, LA
Are you looking for the perfect mask for your Halloween celebration and can’t find it anywhere? Contact or visit The Mask Store in New Orleans. Open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the friendly staff can help you design a custom-made expression of various elements for Mardi Gras, a masquerade or birthday party, or offer something from their wide in-stock selection.
9. The New Orleans Vampire Ball, New Orleans, LA
Halloween weekend and the House of Blues in New Orleans, Louisiana is the time and place where music and dancing meet all things vampire. Held in various cities around the globe, Endless Nights: New Orleans Vampire Ball was voted the best Halloween events in the world by TripAdvisor.com in 2010. Street clothes are not permitted, and costumes are necessary. Visit the website for additional rules and ticket information.
10. Boo at the Zoo, New Orleans, LA
For families that want a safe, fun, and non-scary way to celebrate Halloween for their young ones, The Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans is the perfect place to visit during the month of October. Held each year, Boo at the Zoo features the prettiest princesses, a Ghost Train, haunted house, games, and a chance to trick or treat to children up to age 12.
