Scream Tourism: Why Americans Are Obsessed With Haunted Destinations
Scream tourism, also known as horror tourism, is experiencing a surge in popularity across the United States. This trend isn't just a seasonal phenomenon; it's a year-round obsession for those seeking a chilling adventure. Travelers are eager to explore haunted destinations, delve into macabre histories, and immerse themselves in spooky atmospheres.
A New Kind of Travel Trend
Rob DelliBovi, CEO of RDB Hospitality Group, describes scream tourism as a new trend fueled by Halloween enthusiasts who have transformed the holiday into a travel experience. "It's no longer just family fun but more about adults who want a truly scary experience," he says. DelliBovi explains that the allure of scream tourism lies in the unique and thrilling experiences it offers, particularly for those seeking locations with chilling histories.
Popular Destinations for Scream Tourism
Several destinations across the United States have become hotspots for horror enthusiasts. These locations offer a diverse range of spooky experiences:
Haunted Hotels: Hotels rumored to be haunted have always attracted travelers seeking paranormal encounters.
Murder Sites: Crime scene locations often draw in true crime enthusiasts and ghost hunters eager to explore the dark side of history.
Mystical Tours: Tours that take travelers to places with rich mystical histories provide an immersive and educational experience.
Theme Park Horror Experiences: Theme parks like Universal Studios offer immersive and thrilling Halloween-themed events that cater to thrill-seekers.
A Booming Industry
The growing popularity of horror tourism has brought positive news for the travel industry. "This is good news because the travel trend has come back, and it signals that the pandemic (in terms of travel) is behind us," says DelliBovi. America Haunts, an organization representing 20 haunted attraction owners across the US, also witnesses an increase in visitor numbers. "The jump in horror tourism is evident through increased air travel and ticket sales at some of our attractions," says Ambert Arnett Bequeaith, the 'Ghost Queen' at America Haunts.
What popular destinations cater to scream tourism?
Scream tourism offers various destinations, including haunted hotels, murder sites, mystical tours, and theme park horror experiences.
What are the key indicators of the rise in scream tourism?
Increased visitor numbers, air travel, and ticket sales at haunted attractions indicate a surge in scream tourism.
How does scream tourism impact the travel industry?
Scream tourism has a positive impact on the travel industry as it signals a resurgence in travel following the pandemic.
Which state is a popular destination for scream tourism?
Salem, Massachusetts, is a popular destination for scream tourism, especially for history buffs and ghost hunters.
What evidence suggests scream tourism is more than a seasonal trend?
The growing popularity of scream tourism extends beyond Halloween, with adults seeking unique and thrilling experiences year-round.
A Must-Visit Destination: Salem, Massachusetts
For those truly passionate about horror tourism, Salem, Massachusetts, is a must-visit destination. Known for its witch trials, it's a captivating location for history buffs and ghost hunters alike. In 2023, Salem recorded a record 1.2 million visitors in the five weeks leading up to Halloween, highlighting its enduring appeal.