It's once again October, and that means it's time for ghosts, goblins, and ghouls. Across the nation, people of all ages will be seeking their share of candy, scary stories, and perhaps venture into bewitched woods and haunted houses. It's a fun and festive time, and the IHG Army Hotels family looks forward to sharing it with all of you.
With our properties located on 40 installations around the country, there are plenty of activities on post to take part in. Many locations have planned events for service members and their families, along with the usual trick-or-treating held each year. But, for the brave soul looking to venture out, there are many fun and scary experiences to take part in this Halloween when visiting one of our hotels.
Join us, if you dare, as we highlight some of our favorite things to do during this time of year. Our journey will take us from the West Coast to the East Coast with attractions in between. Whether you are a believer in the paranormal or just looking to try something new this year, our recommendations are a mix of history, adventure, and a touch of the unknown.
Tips for Enjoying Haunted Adventures
Exploring the spooky side of the country can be thrilling, but there is no reason to make it scarier than it needs to be. For that reason, we have a few tips to help you get the most out of your frights without venturing too far into an eerie fog that you can't return from. With a little preparation, you'll be left with nothing more than a few skipped heartbeats and tons of memories to last you until next October.
- Plan ahead: There are numerous activities to enjoy, from festivals to haunted tours. For many locations, Halloween is peak season and can draw significant crowds. Check tour schedules in advance and purchase tickets ahead of time as needed. Our front desk staff can provide recommendations for the area.
- Dress accordingly: During this time of year, most places are cooling down, and nighttime can be a bit chilly. Even if you are wearing a costume, be sure to have layers underneath if needed, comfortable shoes for long walks, and a flashlight.
- Respect history: Many historic landmarks have a haunted history. Old buildings, cemeteries, and other sites can be fun to explore, but do so only where it is allowed.
- Capture the moment: Bring a camera or have your smartphone ready. You never know when it might be your turn to see a ghostly apparition.
- Rest easy: when your adventures for the day come to an end, remember we've got you covered with one of our safe and comfortable rooms. We promise to make sure the ghosts stay outside.
Now that we have a better idea of how to get the most out of your spooky adventures, let's get into a few recommendations, starting with the West Coast.
West Coast: Haunted California Adventures
Fort Hunter Liggett, CA: The Army's largest installation for training reserve units isn't the only thing located at Fort Hunter Liggett. The base is nestled in a remote valley, making it feel as though you are stepping back in time. You are far from California's big cities, with the base offering a blend of tranquility and a rich history.
Just one mile from our IHG Army Hotels Gibb Hall property is the historic, reportedly haunted Mission San Antonio de Padua, founded in 1771 by Father Junípero Serra. As one of the oldest missions in California, many visitors believe the adobe halls still echo with the presence of those who once called the mission home. One of the most reported sightings is that of a headless woman who roams the property looking for her head.
If you plan to be in the area, please check the mission's website for its current hours of operation. The mission is still a functioning church, but has fallen on tough economic times and is often closed. When it is open, it usually allows visitors from 10 am to 4 pm.
Central U.S.: Spirits of the Heartland
Fort Leavenworth, KS: Fort Leavenworth is the oldest continually operated military base west of the Mississippi. The installation is no stranger to haunted activities, from reports of a woman who still haunts the base, looking for her lost children, to many of the historic buildings experiencing unexplained occurrences, such as doors opening on their own and the appearance of mysterious footprints.
One of the best ways to experience the spooky season is to go on a ghost tour. This year, Fort Leavenworth Haunted Tours is offering a two-hour walking tour that visits eight locations guaranteed to make you think twice about the paranormal. And don't worry, if things get too spooky, the tour starts less than two miles from our IHG Army Hotels Otis & Custer House - Historia property. We promise we’re not haunted.
The South: Bayou Spirits and Haunted Charm
Fort Polk, LA: The South is no stranger to ghostly stories and haunted locations. In Louisiana, some say the most haunted location in the country, The Myrtles, has been scaring visitors for generations with tales of murder, torture, and spirits who refuse to leave the historic estate. But at almost three hours from Fort Polk, it might be a bit too far to travel during this scary season.
For a fright closer to home, check out the Beauregard Parish Jail, also known as the Gothic Jail or the Hanging Jail. Visitors have seen an old jailer refusing to move on, apparitions of former inmates, and have heard the anguished groans of men still imprisoned there from beyond the grave. You can take lantern tours of the prison if you dare. This historic haunt is only 20 miles from our Holiday Inn Express Magnolia House & Cypress Inn.
East Coast: Colonial Spirits and Timeless Tales
Fort Belvoir, VA: The East Coast is rich in haunted history. From the ghosts that linger on from the days of the Revolutionary War to more modern haunts, you may find more poltergeists than politicians roaming the streets this time of year. If the phantoms of the Potomac are calling you, consider taking refuge at our Holiday Inn Express Knadle Hallproperty. From the safety of your room, you're less than 30 minutes from Old Town Alexandria Ghost & Graveyard Tours.
This historic walking tour remains intimate, with groups limited to no more than 15 people. The guides are extremely knowledgeable about the haunted history of the region. Explore historic buildings, graveyards, and alleyways rich in ghostly accounts, including those of Revolutionary and Civil War ghosts, as well as more modern specters. The tour is about an hour long and visits a half dozen locations.
From a headless ghost in California to colonial soldiers fighting a war that ended centuries ago in Virginia, there are plenty of scary things to see this year around the country. There is no better way to experience the haunts than to stay at one of our 76 properties. We look forward to seeing you as you search for ghosts this Halloween. Don't worry, our team is ready to provide you with a safe and comfortable experience so you can… rest in peace.
(c) 2025 IHG Hotels & Resorts. All rights reserved. IHG Army Hotels properties are independently owned by Rest Easy LLC, a Centinel Public Partnerships company, and operated by an affiliate of IHG. No DoD, US Army or federal government endorsement implied. For information on Centinel, visit CentinelUS.com.