Best Columbus Haunted Houses

The Best Columbus Haunted Houses and Family Friendly Halloween Fun in 2023!

It’s time to search out the best Columbus haunted houses and family-friendly Halloween fun! Black and orange are appearing in stores all over town, costumes are for sale, and creepy, spooky, fun Halloween decoration is everywhere! Want to celebrate with more than just trick-or-treating? Below are both terrifying haunted houses and fun un-scary family events… the choice is yours!

Note: Please be advised, these dates/times and descriptions were current at the time of publishing, but DO use the provided link or your own search skills to verify the information before you go. The family-friendly label is used as a general label, please judge for yourself what your children are old enough to enjoy. Also, haunted houses are NOT suitable for those with heart conditions or young children… or the easily offended. Many of these events have very frightening scenes, gore, and attendees often use explosive language. Attend at your own risk.

COLUMBUS HAUNTED HOUSES + CENTRAL OH

Are you in the mood to be scared out of your socks? A haunted house experience may be exactly what you need to start the spooky season off right. Here’s a list of Central Ohio haunted houses for you. Scream through just one, or make plans with your friends (and maybe your cardiologist) to be scared senseless at all of them!

The Professionals

The Haunted Hoochie/Dead Acres: A downright infamous event anticipated across the Midwest, and not to be missed by mature scare-fans! Truly ADULT content, including a simulated demonic experience and “Bad Trip in 3-D”.

Located at 13861 West Broad Street SW, Pataskala 43062.

Pataskala Haunted Forest: Based on a great scary story of an anniversary of a killing, and an open-air creepy wood, this one is not for the uncertain… or for young children! A 45-minute outdoor walking experience, this venue does their best to be accessible to everyone. This is the longest running outdoor haunted event in Ohio and is a fundraiser for the Lion’s Club.

Open Fridays and Saturdays through October. NOT necessarily closed for rain… check Pataskala Haunted Forest Facebook page for weather updates.

Group rates available, parking is free, and all proceeds go to charity.

Located at 8838 Refugee Road SW, Pataskala 43062.

Fear Columbus: Open on Fridays to Sundays throughout October, with additional dates as Halloween approaches. Ticket prices and operating hours vary depending on the date. Fast Pass and Skip the Line options are available.

Located at 2605 Northland Plaza Drive, Columbus 43231.

Carnage Haunted House: 30 detailed rooms plus they offer horror movies and live music on select nights. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, this one is not for the squeamish or uncertain.

You have the option of purchasing a speed pass. Open Fridays and Saturdays. Open Thursday and Sunday nights later in October.

Located at 1160 Alum Creek Dr, Suite B, Columbus 43209.

For those haunted houses with a moral message or religious theme, or hauntings further afield in Ohio, visit OhioHauntedHouses.com.

Family Friendly Columbus Haunted Houses

Are you looking for family Halloween fun? Here’s the list for you and yours! Fun seasonal things to do indoors and out, and all for families of various ages.

All Hallows’ Eve: The Ohio Village offers a traditional and family friendly 19^th century Halloween experience, fun for children of all ages. No scares.  Discounts available for members of the OHS. Reserve tickets early, this event sells out!

Located at the Ohio Village, 800 E. 17^th Ave, Columbus 43211. For inquiries, call 800-686-6124.

Boo at the Zoo: This relaxed and enjoyable family event has candy stations, the Little Boo maze and mansion, and even a haunted train ride! All suitable for very young children. The emphasis is on the fun side of Halloween… WITHOUT the scary stuff! Open Friday-Sunday evenings at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium with Zoo admission or membership. Children are encouraged to wear costumes, adults must have faces visible and family-appropriate costumes, and no weapons (real or toy) will be allowed.

Located at 4850 Powell Road, Powell 43065.

Pumpkins Aglow at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Stroll through the enchanting Conservatory grounds, adorned with a captivating display of hundreds of pumpkins meticulously carved by our talented staff, dedicated volunteers, and valued members. Rediscover beloved classics like the whimsical gardening skeletons and charming Pumpkin Houses, and embark on an exciting journey through our newest, spellbinding additions – the mesmerizing pumpkin tunnel light show and the otherworldly alien invasion.

You can experience the magic from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. And this year, they offer extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can enjoy the fun from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Mark your calendars for the dates: October 11–15, 18–22, and 25–29.

Located at 1777 East Broad Street, Columbus 43203.