It’s October in Austin, and that means it’s time to gear up for some spooky, spine-tingling fun! Whether you’re a family with little ones or just a big kid at heart, Austin offers a ton of Halloween-themed activities, from pumpkin patches to haunted houses. Here’s your ultimate Austin Halloween Bucket List to ensure everyone has a spooky good time!
1. Visit the Legendary House of Torment
For thrill-seekers, Austin’s famous House of Torment is a must. This haunted house is one of the scariest in the country, and they go all out each year with detailed sets, actors, and special effects. If you love haunted houses, this is the one that will give you chills and thrills for the entire season. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance because it gets busy closer to Halloween!
Location: 2632 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX
Pro Tip: Try to visit earlier in the season or mid-week to avoid long lines!
2. Pumpkin Picking
No Halloween season is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Head out to one of these awesome patches for a full day of fall fun. In addition to pumpkins, most farms feature corn mazes, hayrides, and family-friendly activities like face painting and games.
Pro Tip: Grab some apple cider while you’re there—it’s the perfect way to enjoy the crisp autumn air.
3. Spooky Film Night at Alamo Drafthouse
Alamo Drafthouse has built a reputation for its quirky, themed movie nights, and Halloween is no exception. Their Terror Tuesday and Horror Movie Marathons are perfect for those who enjoy classic horror films or cult favorites. Make it a date night or bring friends to enjoy a range of Halloween films leading up to October 31st.
Location: Various locations around Austin
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for surprise screenings of iconic films like Halloween and The Exorcist.
4. Take a Ghost Tour of Downtown Austin
Austin’s haunted history is rich with spine-chilling tales, and the Austin Ghost Tour takes you on a journey through downtown, uncovering eerie stories and haunted spots. This walking tour is ideal for those who love to mix history with a bit of fright. Perfect for a group of friends or a date night if you’re feeling adventurous!
Location: Downtown Austin
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking quite a bit—and bring your camera, just in case you spot any paranormal activity!
5. Pumpkin Nights
At PUMPKIN NIGHTS, you will venture along a half-mile walking path, where you’ll discover the Forbidden City, a Pirate’s Cove, and more fantastical lands built using over 5,000 hand-carved real and artificial pumpkins. The celebration continues with entertainment and games in The Village, our festival area.
Location: 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
Pro Tip: Grab your tickets ASAP before they sell out!
For more on PUMPKIN NIGHTS, check out our guide here!
6. Trick or Treat on South Congress
Take your kiddos trick-or-treating along South Congress Avenue for a safe, festive atmosphere. Local businesses go all out with decorations, candy, and sometimes even games for the kids. It’s the perfect family-friendly activity if you’re looking to avoid the late-night crowds and haunted houses but still want to get in on the Halloween fun.
Location: South Congress Ave, Austin, TX
Pro Tip: Many shops hand out treats early in the evening, so start around dusk to catch all the goodies.
7. Dia de los Muertos Festival
Halloween in Austin wouldn’t be complete without recognizing Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. Celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, this festival honors loved ones who have passed with vibrant altars, music, dancing, and food. The Viva la Vida Festival downtown is a stunning, family-friendly way to experience this colorful tradition, with processions, traditional food, and live performances.
Location: Downtown Austin, typically on 4th Street
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a blanket or chair for outdoor performances.
Halloween Must-Haves for Your Austin Adventure:
- Costumes for the Whole Family: Check out local costume shops like A Cut Above Costumes in Round Rock for unique and quirky costumes.
- Reusable Trick-or-Treat Bag: Keep it eco-friendly with a sturdy, reusable bag or even a pillowcase for all those goodies!
- Decorations from The Great Outdoors: This garden center has everything you need to deck out your yard with pumpkins, spooky skeletons, and fall-themed plants.
- Comfy Walking Shoes: Whether you’re walking South Congress or taking a ghost tour, comfy shoes are a must.
- Portable Flashlight: For those nighttime tours or trick-or-treating, a small flashlight will help light the way and avoid any scary spills.
From haunted houses to family-friendly events, Austin has plenty of spooky, fun things to do for Halloween. Whether you’re looking to be scared out of your wits or just want to enjoy some pumpkin-picking, this bucket list has got you covered. So grab your costume, your candy bag, and your favorite people, and make the most of Halloween in Austin this year!
Happy haunting!