Top Five Fun Ways to Celebrate Spooky Season in Southern California
- Exit Game
- Oct 5
- 3 min read
October is finally here, which means it’s officially time for cozy fall vibes, pumpkin spice everything, and—of course—the countdown to Halloween! Whether you’re the type who goes all out with costumes and haunted houses or you prefer something a little more low-key but still festive, Southern California has endless ways to celebrate the season.
To help you make the most of spooky season, we’ve put together five fun activities to kick off October in style. From immersive experiences to classic Halloween thrills, here are some of the best ways to get into the spirit of the season.
1. Escape the Serial Killer in
The 13th Basement at Exit Game OC Escape Room
Looking for something spooky but not too terrifying? Our very own escape room in Anaheim, The 13th Basement at Exit Game OC, is the perfect way to start the season.
This horror-themed escape room puts you and your friends in the middle of a serial killer’s lair—but don’t worry, there are no live actors jumping out at you. Instead, it’s all about solving puzzles, working as a team, and racing against the clock to escape. It’s creepy, fun, and ideal for groups of friends, double dates, or anyone who wants a taste of spooky season without the full haunted house scare factor.
Think of it as the perfect first step into Halloween mode—scary enough to give you chills, but still lighthearted and fun.
2. Step Into an Immersive Theater Experience
Immersive theater is a fantastic way to celebrate spooky season because it puts you in the middle of the story. Unlike traditional theater, you can explore the world, interact with characters, and decide which paths to follow.
Some great Southern California options this season include:
Haunted Soirée in Glendale – A stylish, eerie evening where guests uncover mysteries in a hauntingly elegant setting.
The Carnival in Upland – A playful but spooky interactive experience where you’re free to explore different tents, solve challenges, and meet eccentric characters.
Delusion in Los Angeles is always an interesting time.
If you’re up for something even more intense, you can try The Willows, though it’s currently sold out until after Halloween.
3. Take a Local Ghost Tour
If you’d rather learn about real haunted history, a ghost tour is a perfect fall activity. Southern California has some incredible options:
Mission Inn Museum Riverside Ghost Walk – Explore one of California’s historic neighborhoods while hearing chilling tales of the past.
Haunted Los Angeles Tours – From bus tours to walking tours, these explore Hollywood, Pasadena, and other eerie spots.
Old Towne Orange Ghost Walk – Stroll through charming historic streets while uncovering stories of local hauntings.
A ghost tour lets you enjoy the crisp October evenings while adding just the right amount of spine-tingling fun.
4. Try Axe Throwing with a Spooky Twist
For something a little different, head to Slasher’s Axe Throwing. It’s not haunted, but it’s definitely a thrilling way to spend an evening with friends. Plus, it pairs perfectly with the Halloween season—because what’s more seasonally appropriate than hurling sharp objects at wooden targets like a horror movie villain (safely, of course)?
It’s active, social, and a great way to let out some energy before hitting the pumpkin patch or watching a scary movie.
5. Be Fearless and Visit a Haunted House
Of course, no spooky season is complete without visiting at least one haunted attraction. Southern California is packed with options, whether you want something big and theatrical or smaller, more intimate scares:
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood – Huge sets, movie-quality monsters, and a must for horror fans.
Knott’s Scary Farm – A classic Orange County tradition with mazes, scare zones, and shows.
Los Angeles Haunted Hayride – A Midwest-style hayride with spooky vignettes, perfect for group fun.
Dark Harbor (at The Queen Mary) – A haunt inside a real haunted ship (when available).
Local Home Haunts – Neighborhood passion projects, often just as impressive as big-budget productions.
Whatever you choose, haunted houses are the ultimate way to embrace October’s chills and thrills.
Celebrate Spooky Season Your Way
Whether you’re solving puzzles in The 13th Basement escape room in Anaheim, mingling with ghoulish characters at an immersive show, or testing your courage at a haunted house, Southern California offers endless ways to enjoy the season.
So grab your friends, carve a pumpkin, and make the most of this October—it only comes once a year!
Comments