Halloween In Idaho: A MapQuest Guide

From zombie parades and costume contests to haunted houses and hayrides (to haunted anything!), the Halloween season casts its spell and awakens our inner ghouls and goblins. As part of FrightQuest -- a MapQuest series on spooky destinations and activities -- here are three options to celebrate Halloween in Idaho that are sure to be a scream.
— Tracie Handley

Boo At The Zoo

Zoo Boise may seem like an odd choice for a Halloween activity, but its Boo at the Zoo event has become a local family favorite and is a special treat for younger goblins. Boo at the Zoo features costumed characters passing out candy, a bat toss (no live bats, they promise!), face painting and costume contests for all age groups. This Idaho event is included with zoo admission, which ranges from $4.50 to $7 (children 3 and under are admitted free).

355 E. Julia Davis Drive, Boise, ID 83702 | Get Directions

Frightened Felons Halloween Event

The Frightened Felons Halloween Event at the Old Idaho Penitentiary takes place in one of Idaho's most "haunted" locations and it promises to deliver its yearly quota of fright for the teens-and-older set in the already unnerving prison. Stories covering more than 140 years of escapes, executions, deaths and ghosts leave visitors with images of a reality far scarier than typical man-made Halloween haunts. Just when the fear factor reaches its peak, though, scavenger hunts with prizes lighten the mood, making for a memorable and eclectic Halloween experience.

2245 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, ID 83712 | Get Directions

The Haunted World

For more than a decade, The Haunted World has terrified legions of Idahoans with spine-tingling, nerve-rattling frights. According to its website, this 30-acre outdoor fear fest is the largest haunted attraction in the northwestern United States -- and perhaps the most frightening (definitely not for the young ones). The Haunted World section takes about 45 minutes for guests to experience. Skullvania, an asylum gone wrong, takes another 15 minutes. If visitors survive both sections with their wits about them, there are bonfires, concessions and music to help them unwind from their encounters with the undead.

Northside Boulevard and Highway 20/26, Nampa, ID 83687 | Get Directions

A promotional video for The Haunted World in Nampa, Idaho.

Did we miss a Halloween event in Idaho? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Want other great Halloween-season ideas? Check out FrightQuest and our coverage in Montana, Oregon and Washington State.