Halloween is creeping closer, and St. Louis embraces spooky season with them best of them. From pumpkin patches and playful ghost stories to haunted bars and eerie attractions, there’s something for every kind of thrill-seeker.
The first half of this guide highlights family-friendly outings, while the second half is tailored to adults—though a few events welcome both crowds.
FOR THE FAMILY
Boo at the Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo is putting on this family-friendly event for all ages as a non-scary Halloween experience. Check out their themed decorations and slippery, crawly creatures at the Herpetarium and Insectarium. Guests who are brave enough to make it to Boo at the Zoo before Oct. 20 get the chance to be the first to see the brand new Komodo dragon at the Herpetarium before it goes on regular view. Stingrays at Caribbean Cove, the Conservation Carousel, and a 4D showing of The Little Vampire are all included with ticketed admission. Interactive actors will be on-site to bring the spellbinding experience to life, and guests will be able to enjoy fall food and souvenirs located around the zoo. Feel free to show up in family-friendly costumes, but be sure to check out the Zoo’s full policy here, and grab your tickets at this link.
Oct. 16-30, Sensory-friendly night on October 14. Saint Louis Zoo, 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, 314.781.0900, stlzoo.org/Boo
Grant’s Farm: Halloween Nights
Grab a ticket and get on board with the fun happening at Grant’s Farm. Take their Haunted Tram Ride through a spooky path, including lights and live actors. The ride ends at the Tier Garten, where guests can enjoy Grant’s Farm classics and areas like the haunted scare zone. Don’t miss the Monster Mash dance party in the courtyard or the Halloween show. Seasonal food and drink options will be available for purchase.
Oct. 2-30, Thursdays through Sundays starting at 5 p.m. Grant’s Farm, 7385 Grant Road, St. Louis, 314.843.1700, grantsfarm.com
City Museum: Fright at the Museum
See what the City Museum has in store for guests this October. Access to their Fright at the Museum is included in general admission, and they’ve got something for the whole family on every floor. Check out the fire performers and sideshow acts at Doc Terminus’ Odditorium or the skeleton crew at the Happy Haunted Harmony Circus. All ages will enjoy the Not-So-Spooky Storytelling on the fourth floor, and don’t miss seasonal performances on the 1924 organ. The Cabin Inn Bar becomes Coven & Cauldron. The Vampire Bar takes possession of cocktail duty for the season.
Oct. 1-26. City Museum, 750 N. 16th St., St. Louis, 314.231.2489, citymuseum.org/event/fright-at-the-museum/
Public School House: Ghoul House Pop Up Bar and Haunted Trail
The Public School House is being taken over by ghouls this Halloween season. This event has two family days in addition to the rest of their 21+ nights. Enjoy creepy cocktails curated by Public School House and a food menu that was designed by Oak Street Inn and Lounge. After guests have had their fill, they’re invited to brave through the Haunted Trail, or even come just for the trail. A portion of ticket proceeds go to Marcy’s Project, a nonprofit dedicated to those in the St. Charles County area.
October 17-18, 22-25, and 29-30; Family days on Oct. 19 & 26. Public School House, 5546 Chestnut St, Cottleville, 636.720.1905, publicschoolhouse.com
Lion’s Choice & Schlafly Bottleworks: Roast & Toast Trunk-or-Treat
This Trunk-or-Treat event includes trunk displays and fun for the whole family. Guests who sign up for one of the 20 trunk decorating spots will receive a complimentary Schlafly beer and Lion’s Choice sandwich included in their registration fee. Regular attendees can enjoy competitions like Best Costume and Funniest Costume for prizes. Starting at 6:30 p.m., a showing of Hocus Pocus will conclude Schlafly’s Sunset Cinema Series. Sunset Cinema tickets are $3.50 per person, and Trunk or Treat spots are $10 per car. Folks can purchase both using this link. Refreshments, including a themed cocktail, will be available for purchase. Guests who plan to enjoy the movie are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs.
Oct. 25 – 4 p.m. Schlafly Bottleworks, 7260 Southwest Ave., St. Louis, 314.241.2337, schlafly.com
CWE Street Party
This party begins as fun for the whole family. Start the day off with a children’s parade, culminating in festivities like a dance party and pumpkin decorating. Kids can then trick-or-treat at area businesses, and the dog parade kicks off at 1 p.m. Don’t miss the live music before the street party begins at 6 p.m., including more music, drag performances, and fire dancers. The adult costume contest features cash prizes for the winners, and the adult-only street party kicks off at 10 p.m. and goes until midnight. Central West End restaurants will have food and beverages available. The party is free, but check out the website for information on entry into the costume contest.
Oct. 25 – 11 a.m. to midnight, Central West End, St. Louis
Missouri History Museum: Ghost Stories and Guitars
Ancient creatures are rising from the depths to ascend upon the Missouri History Museum, but don’t be alarmed. These eerie legends of the deep aren’t here to drag you under – they’re bringing an unforgettable wave of energy. Brace yourself for a night of wicked fun as a live band performs Halloween-inspired rock and pop hits, from “Thriller” to “Monster Mash” and more iconic tracks. Step away from the music for a moment of mystique with free tarot and palm readings, then gather around the courtyard bonfire for spine-tingling stories of St. Louis’s haunted past, shared by MHS Public Historian Amanda Clark. And of course, don’t hold back on your costume. Meet in the Grand Hall before the main-stage event to enjoy food and drinks available for purchase. Enjoy live music, fireside ghost stories, and free palm and tarot readings offered by Circus Kaput.
Oct. 23 – 5 to 8 p.m. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, 314.746.4599, mohistory.org/events/ghost-stories-and-guitars
St. Louis Aquarium: Pirates & Pumpkins
The St. Louis Aquarium has dropped anchor on their seasonal celebration Pirates & Pumpkins. Along with season-long all-day events like pirate ship racing, they’ve got a packed schedule, including a look at Missouri’s Mighty Pumpkins, featuring the Missouri State Fair largest pumpkin winners. Trick or Treat Nights start on Oct. 17 with an extra ticket. Set sail quick to catch all these events, and check out their website for the full schedule of times and dates.
Through Nov. 2. St. Louis Aquarium, 201 S. 18th St., St. Louis, 314.923.3900, stlouisaquarium.com
Eckert’s Belleville Farm
Eckert’s Belleville location is bursting with fun this fall. Jack’s Lighted Trail runs on weekends all month long. This night-time trail chases through a half-mile of corn stalks and themed lights, and afterward, guests can snack on seasonal treats available in the Cider Shed. On select nights, adults will be able to enjoy the Spook-Easy pop-up bar. If that’s not enough, the Belleville farm also hosts Ecktoberfest. This fall celebration lasts the month of October on the weekends and includes a Kid’s Corral, live music and wagon rides through the orchard. Check out their website for information about tickets and a full schedule for these events.
Through Nov. 1 – Eckert’s Belleville Farm, 951 S. Green Mount Road, Belleville, 800.745.0513, eckerts.com
Eckert’s Millstadt Farm
The corn maze at Eckert’s Millstadt location is open Friday through Sunday, and was designed with local nonprofit The BackStoppers. Guests can also hitch a ride on a haunted wagon every Friday and Saturday now through November 1. The first weekend in October boasts the Pumpkin Jamboree, featuring festival food and fall treats like cider donuts and caramel apples, along with pig racing, slides, and more family fun. Take a look at their website for all the details on dates and times.
Through Nov. 1 – Eckert’s Millstadt Farm, 2719 Eckert Orchard Lane, Millstadt, 618.233.0513, eckerts.com
Eckert’s Farms
Pick-Your-Own Pumpkins have started at all three Eckert’s locations. Get picking with a field access pass, then pay $0.79 per pound of whatever you can grab. Check out their main website for information about all picking opportunities.
Multiple locations, eckerts.com
BETTER FOR ADULTS
Check with each establishment if you’d like to bring children as many of the below events are geared toward adults and some do not allow children at all.
Missouri Botanical Garden: Spirits in the Garden
Get in the All Hallow’s spirit at the Botanical Garden this year. Ticketed admission to this 21+ event includes drink tastings from local and regional breweries, distilleries, and wineries, while food is available to purchase. As far as metaphysical spirits go, other activities include tarot readings and chats with paranormal investigators. Clownvis will be providing music and comedy, and don’t be afraid to dress your best for the costume contest.
Oct. 24 – 6 – 8:30 p.m., Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, 314.577.5100, missouribotanicalgarden.org
Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House: Wicked Wings and Wine
Fly over to this taste of Halloween at the Butterfly House featuring samples of local wines, spirits, and brews. Live music will surround the Native Butterfly Garden, and the Bug Chef will be preparing food for those brave enough to try it. As the sun sets, guests will get to learn about the dusk-loving owl butterfly, as well as other creatures from the World Bird Sanctuary. This event is 21+, and discounted tickets are available for designated drivers.
Oct. 17 – 5:30-7:30 p.m., Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, 15050 Faust Park, Chesterfield, 314.577.0888, butterflyhouse.org
Harvey’s Coffee and Cocktails: Harvey’s Haunted Pirate Cove
For five nights, set sail at Harvey’s Haunted Pirate Cove pop-up. Guests can enjoy themed appetizers and cocktails in front of classic seasonal movies on a 14-foot screen. Be there on Halloween night for some extra spooky sailing, including their Halloween costume contest. The ticket price includes entry and your first drink.
Oct. 24 & 25 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1. Harvey’s Coffee and Cocktails, 2706 Olive St., St. Louis, 314.571.9921, harveysstl.com
Eat Crow: Nightmare on 12th Street
Eat Crow has been transformed into their annual Halloween pop-up of your dreams, Nightmare on 12th Street. Along with the spooky decor, the frightening features include a themed menu with food like Toxic Waste Mac and Cemetery Cake, not to mention Ectoplasm and Jack-O-Lantern shots. Don’t miss their costume contest at 10:30 p.m. on Halloween night for a chance to win prizes. Superfun Yeah Yeah Rocketship will be hosting and performing beforehand.
Through Oct. 31. Eat Crow, 1931 S. 12th St., St. Louis, 314.934.1400, eatcrowstl.com
The Crow’s Nest: Frank-N-Stein Dogs & Drafts and Halloween Costume Contest
Guests can get their fill at the Crow’s Nest Frank-N-Stein event. They’ll be serving up hot dogs and Schlafly Oktoberfest beer steins; the mugs are guests’ to keep. Get there while supplies last. The Crow’s Nest will also be holding a costume contest on Halloween night, and there will be prizes.
Oct. 1 – 6-9 p.m., and Oct. 31 – 10:30 p.m. The Crow’s Nest, 7336 Manchester Road, Maplewood, 314.781.0989, crowsneststl.com
Eckert’s Belleville Farm: Pumpkin Painting and Cider Sipping
Eckert’s is taking paint and sips to a whole new fall level with this event. A reservation includes everything you need to have a relaxing night out. Take a tractor ride through the farm while sipping a cocktail. After the cruise through the farm, the Cider Shed will have pumpkins and supplies so guests can create their own masterpieces, all while enjoying a flight of hard ciders and a snack pack.
Oct. 1 & 8 – 6-9 p.m. Eckert’s Belleville Farm, 951 S. Green Mount Road, Belleville, 800.745.0513, eckerts.com
Gatsby’s Haunted Mansion
Take a step back into the ‘20s, when Gatsby knew how to throw a mean party. This haunted mansion event channels that spirit for three nights. A ticket grants access to this secretive venue, and guests can purchase themed cocktails, beer, wine, and N/A options while they enjoy music and entertainment including tarot card reading, an illusionist, and dance performances. Be sure to dress your best like Gatsby’s guests would.
Oct. 31-Nov. 2. Prohibition, 2017 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis
Magic House: Haunted Happy Hour
This adult play date includes food, spirits, and a good time at the museum. Don’t miss out on the costume contest and photo ops, and be sure to register to save your spot for this 21+ event.
Oct. 23 – 6 – 9 p.m. The Magic House, 516 S. Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, 314.822.8900, magichouse.org
Molly’s in Soulard: Mollyween
Mollyween is back, and with a free RSVP, no cover is needed to access everything they have to offer during the party. Along with the spooky decor, guests can enjoy six bars, two DJs, firepits, and friends for a night of “boos and booze.” Winners of the costume contest will be announced at midnight, and prizes are on the table.
Oct. 25 – 8 p.m. Molly’s in Soulard, 816 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314.241.6200, mollysinsoulard.com
Ballpark Village: Boos & Brews Bar Crawl
Don’t let the chance to grab tickets for this Halloween night bar crawl disappear.
Oct. 31 – 6 p.m. Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave., St. Louis, 314.797.7530, stlballparkvillage.com
Ballpark Village: Ride or Die Halloween Party
Step right up for the thrill of a lifetime. Coast into Ballpark Village Ride or DIE Halloween for your FINAL destination presented by Bud Light and Liquid Death. Join 105.7 the Point and the Rizzuto show for a night of fright featuring access to six parties in one park including access to FanDuel Sports Network Live!, Crown Hall, AVA Garden Bar, Cardinals Nation, PBR, and Shark Bar! Get the fast pass to fun with a VIP ticket with the all-inclusive drink package, live music with Teen & The Teenage Dirtbags + Danger Party! Dress your best for a chance to win up to $10K in cash and prizes at the costume contest. Use code SAUCE for $5 off your tickets too.
Oct. 25 – 9 p.m. Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave., St. Louis, 314.797.7530, stlballparkvillage.com
Blood Bank at Sports & Social
Get some bloody bites and spooky cocktails at Blood Bank, the month-long pop-up bar at Sports & Social. Their featured food and photo ops will haunt your night and your Halloween season. Fridays and Saturdays require a $5 cover added to the tab that includes complimentary Liquid Death brand water. Every Thursday from Oct. 9-30, catch Plaza Fright Nights, featuring throwback Halloween favorites like Scream and Friday the 13th. Get the full schedule and make your reservation here.
Sports & Social at Ballpark Village, 651 Clark Ave., St. Louis, 314.492.5064, stlballparkvillage.com
The Attic Music Bar: Nightmare Bar
One ticket gets you 90 minutes of thrills at this nationwide pop-up bar featuring all things gothic and macabre. Guests will be haunted by the cocktails, decorations, and maddening entertainment. Costumes are welcome along with the fun and games featured at this nightmare-inducing party.
Oct. 3-31 – Thursdays through Sundays, The Attic Music Bar, 4247 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, thenightmarebars.com
Platypus: Black Lagoon
Platypus is one bar out of 38 cities that is getting the nationwide, immersive pop-up bar Black Lagoon this year. This female-owned and founded event prioritizes creativity and a scary good time. Some of the drinks to fear include the Corpse Flower, Nocturna Colada, and the N/A Death’s Door. Embrace your inner darkness with them if you dare.
Sept. 29-Nov. 2. Platypus, 4501 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, blacklagoonpopup.com
Hidden Gem: Haunted at the Disco
Don’t panic, because Hidden Gem is taking care of all your Halloween needs with their haunted disco. The back room is transforming into neon, disco balls, and spiderwebs, not to mention the themed cocktails. A reservation gets guests access to an hour-and-a-half of this 21+ ghoulish experience. Find out more info about making reservations here.
Oct. 2-Nov. 1 – 6 p.m. to midnight with Last reservation at 10:30 p.m. Hidden Gem, 3118 Locust St., St. Louis, 314.925.8931, shopgoldengems.com/pages/hidden-gem
Adventures of Intrigue: The Carondolet Wizard Ball
Wizard houses will battle during this night of masquerade and magic. This 18+ event has Ooey Gooey Butterbeer, dragons, wands, and costumes. Enroll in the College of Magic with your registration to see if your wizard house has what it takes to claim the coveted Chalice of Champions during this live adventure gameplay with light refreshments. Get your tickets here.
Oct. 17 – 6-9 p.m, Adventures of Intrigue, 2400 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314.390.2833, intriguestl.com
Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: Halloween Cruises
Drink, dress up, and dance on the Halloween cruises offered by Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. A DJ will be spinning “bone-shaking beats,” and the winner of the frightful fashion contest will receive a special prize package. The cash bar includes drinks like the Candy Corn Cocktail, Vampire’s Kiss, and the Corpse Reviver.
Oct. 25 and 31, 8:30-10:30 p.m. Riverboats at the Gateway Arch, 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd., St. Louis, 877.982.1410, gatewayarch.com/riverboats
The Darkness: Poltergeist Pub
Descend into The Darkness and find your way to their Poltergeist Pub along with their haunted house this Halloween. This secret, VIP bar experience is limited to 60 guests per night. A ticket includes access to the haunted house, along with a VIP lanyard and a themed cocktail. The Poltergeist Pub features additional set design, artwork, horror-themed pinball, and more. Check out their website for a full list of dates and times, as well as their Instagram, @scarefest, to learn more.
The Darkness, 1525 S. Eighth St, St. Louis, 314.788.3718, thedarkness.com
ART Bar: Pumpkins on the Skyline
Beginning Oct. 1, ART Bar, the rooftop bar at Angad Arts Hotel, is opening their free pumpkin patch that overlooks St. Louis. In addition to the pop-up patch, this 21+ experience will include Halloween-themed cocktails. Brave tastebuds can try the spicy Mr. Hyde or the Fire Ciderball.
Oct. 1-Nov. 2. Angad Arts Hotel, 3550 Samuel Shepard Drive, St. Louis, 314.561.0033, angadartshotel.com
Le Méridien: Reels on the Rooftop
Le Méridien is transforming their rooftop bar into a cinema perfect for the fall season. While overlooking downtown Clayton, attendees will be able to watch movies voted on by the hotel guests while accessing the Café la Vie menu, candy, a popcorn bar, and cocktails and mocktails themed after the week’s movie. Movies will include Ocean’s Eleven, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and a one-night Halloween special with Hocus Pocus. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets to optimize their comfort and viewing experience. Tickets are available online in advance.
Oct. 9, 22 & 29. Le Méridien St. Louis Clayton, 7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton, 314.863.0400