Updated: Oct 23, 2023
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On a crisp October morning, as shadows grow long and the chill sets in, one can imagine a traveler standing in the heart of Philadelphia, ready to embark on a thrilling Halloween-themed weekend adventure. The city itself appears to be holding its breath, eager to unveil its secrets, from mysterious meals to haunted histories.
Phantasmic Feasts and Performances
Upon entering The Cauldron, visitors are greeted by an ambiance both magical and mysterious. Throughout the year, the restaurant is adorned with whimsical décor, but October sees an extra touch of spooky flair. Dark, enchanting interiors, punctuated with eerie aesthetics, set the scene. The Dragon Wings and Charcuterie boards offer a tantalizing introduction to a realm of otherworldly tastes. The pièce de résistance? The cocktail potions. One might opt for the ‘Serum of Loose Lips’ when in the mood to spill the magic beans, or choose the ‘Ectoplasm Shot’ for a ghostly experience. And as evening approaches, the venue’s thrilling trivia night provides an intellectual challenge.
Just a short stroll away is Franky Bradley’s. For those who revel in dazzling, over-the-top performances and jaw dropping dance moves, this is the place to be. This lively watering hole hosts drag shows with a spooky twist. Fans of the show Dragula can find Onyx Ondyx, an absolutely captivating contestant from the upcoming Season 5, taking the stage. Feeling the energy here? It’s like the electric chair’s more lively cousin.
Searching for Spirits
The dawn of a new day draws visitors to the residence of the literary legend, Edgar Allan Poe. Here, they can meander through rooms that might have birthed some of his darkest tales. Entry is free. A short movie is shown and you can spend as much or as little time exploring one of the five homes Poe lived in during his 6 years in Philadelphia. From there, a gentle walk leads to the hallowed grounds of the Christ Church Burial Ground. Many come to pay respects to Benjamin Franklin, yet tales persist of playful phantoms tossing coins back at the unsuspecting. Entry costs 5$ per person. In this cemetery, 5 constitution signers are buried. Benjamin Franklin, Francis Hopkinson, Benjamin Rush, Joseph Hewes and George Ross. The burial ground opened in 1719. Ghost tours are also offered here.
Eastern State Penitentiary Halloween Nights (Photo by Katie Brittle)
As twilight blankets the city, the main attraction beckons: Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary. This former bastion of the notorious Pennsylvania System, which once isolated inmates in chilling solitude, now awakens every October evening to embrace a more lively side. The imposing stone walls of the penitentiary come alive, revealing not just one, but five deeply immersive haunted houses, each echoing with the whispers of bygone eras. And for those whose appetites are more culinary than ghostly, numerous bars and food stands dot the venue, serving both delectable bites and eerie beverages.
Eastern State Penitentiary Halloween Nights (Photo by Katie Brittle)
A unique kaleidoscope hall offers disorienting delights, while a variety of entertainment shows promise to captivate and horrify in equal measure. And for the visitor who believes they’ve seen it all? The offer of a glow-in-the-dark necklace is a must-do experience. This isn’t merely a nostalgic fashion statement; it’s a darksome invitation. Those who adorn it might find themselves separated from their group, with actors taking the scare experience to a personal level. There’s talk of a deranged dentist, eager to inspect newcomers, and tunnels so narrow they might send shivers down the spine of those with certain phobias.
Given its spooktacular lineup, it’s no surprise that Eastern State Penitentiary is the highlight of many a Halloween trip. For those looking to maximize their experience, arrive early, around 6:30 pm, as by 8:00 pm, queues begin to snake around corners. Whether you’re there for a fleeting visit or a night-long adventure, this chillingly transformed institution guarantees an unforgettable journey into the heart of Halloween.
A Day of Haunts & History
The next day’s itinerary might begin with the Divine Lorraine Hotel. Steeped in tales of cult leaders Father Divine and the infamous Jim Jones, and paranormal activities, it now operates under the aegis of the Mint House. The lobby invites exploration, and dining options abound; interactions with the staff often reveal haunting tales and memories.
The journey continues at the Independence Visitor Center, where guided bus tours leave every 15-20 minutes and allow passengers to hop on and hop off for a nice blend of self-paced fun and locally guided adventure. Book your next tour HERE! Stops might include the Mütter Museum with its myriad oddities, venerable art museums, and the majestic Cathedral Basilica. Each site seems to resonate with tales from decades gone by. Philadelphia, with its rich history, has long championed free speech and the voicing of collective opinions. It is not uncommon to see an occasional protest. This stands as a poignant reminder: what could be more haunting than the idea of relinquishing freedom of speech and independence? In the birthplace of American democracy, such values are deeply cherished and fiercely protected.
As the weekend concludes, it becomes evident that even a brief spooky sojourn in Philadelphia promises plenty of scares. Stay tuned for the next deep dive, exploring the eerie embrace of Eastern State Penitentiary. If this trip offered but a glimpse, one can only imagine what further adventures await. Until next time, Stay Curious.
