If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers their fall getaway with extra chills, Idaho delivers. From haunted prisons and ghostly tales to creepy college campuses and fright-filled rides, the Gem State provides an unnerving variety of spine-tingling experiences. Plan a trip to these spooky spots for an unforgettable, eerie road trip.
Scarywood at Silverwood Theme Park | Athol
Each October, the Pacific Northwest’s largest theme park transforms into a nightmarish nighttime wonderland. Scarywood Haunted Nights features five chilling attractions, nine scare zones and the chance to ride coasters like Timber Terror—in total darkness.
Stay just minutes from the park at Cedar Mountain Farm, a cozy bed-and-breakfast with farmhouse character. Or tuck into seclusion among the trees at the Little Yurt in the Big Woods. When hunger strikes, grab a meal at Country Boy Café or enjoy wood-fired pizza and craft beer at Iron Pizza Co.
Silverwood Theme Park, Athol | Photo: Visit Idaho
Ghost Tour | Lewiston
Go beneath the streets of historic downtown Lewiston on the Underground Ghost Tour, where hidden tunnels and forgotten rooms tell tales of speakeasies, brothels and bootlegging days. Some say spirits still linger, and the tour guides have the stories to prove it.
Spend the night at the Hampton Inn Lewiston, offering sleek accommodations and complimentary breakfast, or check into the Holiday Inn Express Lewiston, praised for its indoor pool and service. For dinner, indulge in hearty cuts at Ernie’s Steakhouse, or unwind with classic pub fare and a pint at Main Street Station.
Town of Lewiston | Photo: Visit Idaho
Old Idaho Penitentiary | Boise
The Old Pen is one of the state’s most notorious haunted sites. Once housing hardened criminals, it now invites brave souls to walk the cell blocks, explore solitary confinement and hear stories of inmates who may never have truly left. Book a nighttime tour or brace yourself for the Paranormal Investigation series. In October, the Old Pen hosts Sleepless in Stripes, a simulated prison experience that includes a ghost tour and an overnight stay in a real cell.
If you’d prefer not to sleep behind bars, check into the Courtyard Boise Downtown, or opt for The Modern Hotel and Bar, a hip, mid-century retreat with a beloved cocktail bar. Satisfy your appetite with handmade chorizos and pintxos at Ansots—a Baque eatery from James Beard nominee Dan Ansotegui—or round out the evening at The James Kitchen & Bar, where you’ll find delightful eats and drinks in a chic space.
Old Idaho Penitentiary, Boise | Photo: Visit Idaho
The Haunted Swamp | Twin Falls
The Haunted Swamp winds visitors along shadowy trails, over creaky bridges and into the heart of fog-shrouded frights. More than 60 live actors and immersive sets make this one of southern Idaho’s most atmospheric Halloween experiences.
After the screams, rest easy at Fairfield Inn & Suites Twin Falls, known for its comfort and convenience, or book a room at the Best Western Plus Twin Falls Hotel, a guest favorite for hospitality and accommodations. Fuel up on authentic Bosnian comfort food, such as house-made cevapi, stuffed cabbage rolls and flaky baklava, at Emma’s Café. Or calm your nerves with wood-fired burgers, craft beers and a laid-back vibe at Redhawk Gastropub.
Shoshone Falls, near Twin Falls | Photo: Visit Idaho
Haunted Mansions of Albion | Albion
The abandoned campus of the Albion State Normal School is anything but normal. Once an active college from the late 1800s through 1969, the school is now home to the Haunted Mansions of Albion—the Northwest’s largest indoor-outdoor haunted attraction. Walk through dorms, tunnels and classrooms where paranormal activity is part of the curriculum.
When you’re ready to trade ghost stories for a restful evening, stay close to the action at The Marsh Creek Inn, a rustic and welcoming spot in Albion. Otherwise, head to the Hampton Inn Burley for river views and a complimentary, hot breakfast. Swing by The 208 Grill in Burley for burgers, sandwiches and savory specials, or enjoy homestyle cooking and fresh-baked pie at Edith’s Café.
Ghost Walk | Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls may seem peaceful, but its streets hold darker tales. The city’s Ghost Walk takes you on a 90-minute guided tour of haunted landmarks, unsolved mysteries and long-buried secrets. Led by costumed guides, the walk blends history with just the right amount of haunt.
Afterward, rest your head at Destinations Inn, where globally themed suites offer a whimsical stay, or settle into The Residence Inn Idaho Falls for spacious suites with riverfront views. Dine on delicious, aromatic Nepalese and Indian dishes at Himalayan Flavor, or grab a seat at Sully’s Gastropub for inventive pub fare, local beers and a cozy neighborhood vibe.
Start mapping your hair-raising Idaho road trip, or explore some other must-do fall activities.