Chicago is a great city with a history of sophistication, architecture and business. It’s known for entertainment as well, and Halloween is an entertainment-filled holiday for the Windy City. Whether you want to tour a haunted house, ride a ghostly roller coaster or hear classic haunted tales by Edgar Allen himself, Chicago has got a way for everyone to celebrate the occasion. If you are ready to have a spooky time in Chicago, here are some places to visit.
Red Lion Pub
Visit this renown haunted pub on Halloween to get your scare-on. Built in 1882, the Red Lion location has a history of being a brothel, as well as an old west style saloon. Sightings of a ghostly figure now referred to as “Sharon” has been blamed for the inexplicable second floor bathroom locks malfunctioning, locking in frightened patrons, as well as mysterious swinging lamps and moving artwork. Check it out at 2446 N Lincoln Ave.
Weird Chicago Tour
Available usually only on Halloween weekend, the Weird Chicago tour will take you through this cities mobster and ghostly past. Visit the spirits of the Congress Hotel (the most haunted hotel in Chicago), see where John Dillinger was shot and check out a haunted tattoo parlor. Full of spooky tales that will bring shivers up your spine tickets are $30.00 as of 2009. Tours are picked up at the Hard Rock Cafe on Clark and Ontario streets.
Edgar Allen Poe Readings
Presented by the actors of the Lifeline Theater, Poe’s spookiest writings such as “The Raven” will be dramatically brought to life on Saturday, October 31, 2009. Tickets for it’s 23rd annual production sell for $25.00 and take place at the Glessner House on 1800 S Prairie Ave.
Shadows on the Street Haunted Tours of Prairie Avenue
Presented by the Glessner House on Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st, tours include stories from the Glessner House as well as a stroll to the homes of Marshall Field and George Pullman. Costumed docents will lead you into the mysterious 1800’s and fill your head with history and haunting. Head to 1800 S. Prairie Ave.
Windy City Sweets
Halloween is nothing if there is no candy involved, and Windy City Sweets has been treating the people of Chicago for over 20 years. Handmade fudge, candies and ice cream will tempt you to hold your hands out and yell “Trick or Treat.” Find it at 3308 N. Broadway Street.
Fright Fest at Six Flags Great America
Weekends in October bring out the ghouls and ghosts at one of the most fun theme parks in the area. Haunted houses, street entertainers and a special trick or treat day for the kids, Six Flags creates a spooky environment for kids of all ages to have a blast. General admission is $54.99 in 2009, but online specials can be found. Parking is extra so load up the car and get going.
