With Halloween on the way, many travelers are hoping to plan festive getaways. Changing leaves, autumnal temperatures, and haunted hotels are calling their names, all with promises to fulfill their seasonal checklists. However, with so many options out there, it can be hard to find the perfect escape.
Luckily, we at HAP only back above-par vacations, which is why we tapped Margaret Bienert, creator of A Pretty Cool Hotel Tour and author of Hotel Kitsch, to get her insights on the best Halloween-themed boutique hotel offerings. From spooky escapes to bone-chilling destinations, learn more about Bienert’s top picks ahead for this season and beyond.
What Are the Best Halloween-Themed Rooms at Boutique Hotels?
“Our three favorite Halloween-themed rooms are the Haunted Manor at Castlewood Cottages in Big Bear, California, the Haunted Mansion at Hicksville Pines in Idyllwild, California, and the Haunted Castle at Adventure Suites in North Conway, New Hampshire.”
“As their eerily similar names suggest, each room offers its own unique take on the haunted house theme. The Haunted Manor is located on a charming property in the woods, featuring elaborate decor, hidden compartments to discover, and a stunning bathtub with a gargoyle spout. The Haunted Mansion leans more toward kitsch than spookiness, with a large doom-buggy bed and artwork that nods to the Disney ride of the same name. The Haunted Castle is the most grandiose, interactive, and frightening, with enough beds to sleep over a dozen guests and technology that gives the inescapable, constant feeling of hosting some uninvited spirits.”
Where Is the Best US City to Visit During Halloween?
“For me, Halloween is all about autumn in its peak season, meaning warm drinks, cold nights, and vibrant leaves. Luckily, all of the locations I mentioned have beautiful nature this time of year. Halloween is also all about fantasy and dressing up, and that’s really what any good theme hotel visit is about too! So, your ideal hotel destination depends on your costume, and there’s really something for everyone–spooky or not.”
What Do You Look For When Staying at Boutique Hotels?
“The main thing we look for in a boutique hotel is unique decor. The way we see it, you can go almost anywhere to find a hotel with features like a continental breakfast and indoor pool, but when we travel to a theme hotel, it’s more important to have a special experience with something like a room that is designed to feel like a cave, a custom seashell or spaceship bed, hand-painted murals, or an elaborate bathtub. That’s what makes it an unforgettable night away! Cleanliness is also something we look for to be sure we can relax and enjoy the stay.”
What’s the Best Piece of Advice You Have For Travelers Who Want to Find Cool Hotels?
“Be open to exploring off the beaten path! The coolest themed hotels are often found outside of big cities, but the trip is always worth it if you’re looking for a fun and fantasy-filled experience.”
– As told to by Lauren Harano
Interested in learning more about A Pretty Cool Hotel Tour or Hotel Kitsch? Head to the Instagram page and website now.
