By: Alisa Pryor

Spooky season has officially arrived in Philly, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. From haunted prisons to cozy pumpkin patches, Temple students (and anyone in the city) have plenty of options to get into the Halloween spirit.

Eastern State Penitentiary – “Halloween Nights”

Temple students love this one. It’s a massive haunted attraction inside an actual abandoned prison. They do haunted houses, live performances, and themed bars. It’s one of Philly’s most popular Halloween events, known for its creepy atmosphere. The cellblocks are lit with eerie lights, and actors roam the halls in terrifying costumes. Beyond the scares, there are food vendors, photo ops, and immersive themed areas that make it a full night out for groups of friends.

Ghost Tours of Philadelphia (Old City)

Walking tours through historic spots like Independence Hall and Elfreth’s Alley. Perfect for history nerds who still want the creepy vibes. Guides share eerie tales of Philly’s past, from colonial hauntings to unsolved mysteries. The tours are candlelit, which adds to the spooky mood as you wander the cobblestone streets. It’s a fun way to learn about the city’s history while getting a few chills along the way.

Haunted Brewery/Bar Crawls

Philly does a lot of Halloween bar crawls in Center City and Old City, themed drinks, costumes, and specials. Many of the stops decorate their spaces with fog machines, fake cobwebs, and spooky lighting to set the mood. Some crawls even include costume contests, DJs, and giveaways throughout the night. It’s a great option for anyone who wants Halloween fun without the jump scares.

Franklin Square Pumpkin Patch / Light Show

Franklin Square usually has fall events, mini golf with spooky decorations, and a cute pumpkin patch vibe. At night, the park lights up with glowing lanterns and themed light displays that make for great photos. Families, couples, and students all come out to enjoy the fall atmosphere. You can grab hot cider, play a round of mini golf, or just hang out under the string lights for a cozy Halloween experience.

South Street PumpkinFest

A family-friendly but fun outing costumes, pumpkin decorating, food vendors. Great for students looking for a daytime option. There’s live music, local art, and plenty of photo-worthy fall decorations lining the street. Many of the nearby shops and restaurants join in with seasonal treats and sales. It’s a relaxed, community-driven event that still captures the festive Halloween spirit.

Linvilla Orchards

Places just outside Philly, Linvilla Orchards is a classic. They have hayrides, apple cider donuts, and a big pumpkin patch. It’s a perfect spot for a fall day trip with friends or family. You can pick your own apples, explore the corn maze, or visit their farm market for homemade pies and jams. The scenery is beautiful in October, especially when the leaves start to change color.

Halloween at the Philadelphia Zoo (Boo at the Zoo)

A lighter, wholesome option. Costumes, animal encounters, candy stations. The zoo is decorated with fun, spooky touches that make it festive without being too scary for kids. There are themed shows and activities throughout the day, like pumpkin painting and scavenger hunts. It’s a great way to celebrate Halloween while getting some fresh air and seeing your favorite animals.

Mütter Museum – After Hours

The museum of medical oddities is creepy year-round, but they sometimes do special Halloween events or extended hours. Visitors can explore the exhibits in a dimly lit, eerie setting that heightens the museum’s naturally spooky vibe. Some events include guided tours, themed talks, or interactive activities that lean into the macabre. It’s a must-visit for anyone who enjoys the strange, unusual, and slightly unsettling side of history.

Halloween Movie Screenings

Philly often has screenings of classics like Hocus Pocus or Rocky Horror Picture Show (sometimes interactive). The Ritz or Trocadero-style theaters usually do this. These events often encourage costumes, sing-alongs, and audience participation, making the screenings extra fun. Some theaters offer themed snacks or drinks to match the movie. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a nostalgic Halloween night with friends or fellow fans.

Your Guide to a Spooky Season in Philly

The Deal (Off Campus Series) by Elle Kennedy