The “scream tourism” trend has Halloween fans and travelers flocking to creepy spots all year round.
Rob DelliBovi, the CEO of RDB Hospitality Group in New York, shared with Fox News that this unique travel phenomenon has extended beyond the Halloween season and is now capturing the interest of thrill-seekers throughout the entire year.
“This trend has emerged from dedicated Halloween enthusiasts, transforming the holiday into an ongoing exploration of frightful locations,” he noted.
DelliBovi has observed a notable rise in scream tourism, particularly among adults eager for thrilling experiences.
“The focus has shifted from family-friendly attractions to adults seeking authentic scares, including visits to locations tied to notorious events,” he remarked.
Visitors are drawn to bizarre accommodations such as haunted hotels, infamous crime scenes, and immersive ghost tours.
America Haunts, an organization representing 20 haunted attractions across the nation, caters to those searching for spine-chilling adventures.
Amber Arnett Bequeaith, affectionately known as “The Queen of Haunts,” concurs that the popularity of scream tourism is climbing higher.
America Haunts boasts eerie experiences in states like California, Georgia, and Massachusetts, inviting tourists to step into the shadows.
“On the lighter side, places like Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios thrive by crafting spooky escapism,” DelliBovi pointed out.
He elaborated, “For those who prefer the harder edge of horror, a pilgrimage to Salem, Massachusetts, where the infamous witch trials unfolded, or visiting renowned cemeteries, draws considerable interest.”
Salem saw an astounding 1.2 million visitors last year in the weeks leading up to Halloween, according to a local Patch article.
Additionally, the Borden House in Fall River, Massachusetts, where the Lizzie Borden controversy took place, serves as a bed and breakfast with true crime fans and ghost hunters regularly booking stays.
More than a century ago, the Borden family faced a horrific tragedy that has turned their former home into a museum and a testament to the macabre.
“It’s refreshing to see that trend-driven travel is back on the rise, indicating that the limitations of the COVID era are fading into memory. Even those drawn to spine-chilling tales are ready to explore,” DelliBovi remarked.
One fascinating aspect of this trend is how it taps into an age-old human fascination with fear and the unknown. Whether venturing into obscure ghost towns or partaking in paranormal investigations, scream tourism allows adventurers to confront their fears while experiencing a slice of history. This dynamic blend of thrill and knowledge brings a unique dimension to the travel landscape, beckoning all kinds of visitors to seek the eerie and extraordinary.
