As the leaves change and the nights grow cooler, Milwaukee comes alive with Halloween spirit.
Looking for a memorable evening drive or stroll with the family? Dive into the eerie but enchanting world of Milwaukee’s best Halloween displays!
From haunted gardens to playful pumpkin patch setups, many of these displays are handcrafted with love by our very own Milwaukee residents.
And the best part? Most of them won’t cost you a dime to visit.
So, get ready to get spooked and sprinkle a little Halloween magic into your family’s fall adventures.
1. Scarecrow Lane
Nestled within the heart of Retzer Nature Center, Scarecrow Lane has become a cherished fall spot for countless local families.
Starting from the west end of the Learning Center Building, you’re invited to embark on a self-guided hike that promises both fun and intrigue.
As you meander along the scenic Blue Trail, be ready to encounter an array of whimsical scarecrows, each one crafted and adorned with creativity by our talented local families and businesses.
From the quirky to the enchanting, these scarecrows are more than just straw and old clothes; they’re symbols of community spirit and the magic of autumn in Milwaukee.
2. The Nightmare Before Christmas (TBD for 2023)
2754 S. Logan Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207
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TBD in 2023.
Seeking a Halloween spectacle? Make your way to the 2700 block of South Logan Avenue in the heart of Milwaukee’s vibrant Bay View neighborhood.
Awaiting you is a breathtaking display, brilliantly illuminated and meticulously designed around the iconic “Nightmare Before Christmas” theme.
Families from near and far flock to this neighborhood for trick and treating.
It’s an eerie, enchanting sight that promises to transport you to Jack Skellington’s Halloween Town. Don’t miss this spellbinding experience!
3. A & J’s Halloween House
2943 S. Clement Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53207
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A short distance from the notable Nightmare Before Christmas display in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood stands another Halloween marvel — A&J’S Halloween House, located at 2943 S Clement Avenue.
This year’s theme is “Wheel of Misfortune”, a spooky spin on the long-running game show.
For nearly two decades, the pair has consistently transformed their front yard into various Halloween-themed wonders. Their displays, changing annually, have not only been local sensations but have also received national recognition, with mentions on platforms such as Good Morning America and the Kelly & Ryan Show.
Beyond the captivating visuals, there’s a heartwarming mission behind A&J’s Halloween House. Over the years, the duo has capitalized on the popularity of their displays to raise funds for charity. Their cumulative donations have now reached an impressive $35,000.
4. The Lightmare Before Christmas
N102W17515 Lone Oaks Drive, Germantown, WI 53022
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Experience the magic of Halloween like never before with this synchronized Halloween Lights Show!
Simply tune your car radio to the station displayed on-site, and let the enchanting lights dance in harmony with iconic Halloween tunes.
From classic hits like “Monster Mash” and “Purple People Eater” to the haunting notes of “The Phantom of the Opera” and the upbeat rhythm of “Ghostbusters,” there’s a musical treat for everyone. And here’s a little secret: the playlist shuffles, offering different melodies every night of the season.
If you’re enchanted by this experience, mark your calendar; they light up the festive season with a Christmas version too!
Visitor’s Tip: For a smooth experience minus the bustling crowds, consider swinging by on a weeknight or in the earlier days of October.
5. Halloween House on 84th St.
3234 S. 84th St., Milwaukee, WI 53227
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Step into a world of Halloween wonder at this impressively adorned house on 84th Street.
Whether you choose to drive by or take a leisurely stroll, interactive displays promise to engage and enthrall.
Even during the day, the setup offers a spine-tingling ambiance, but it’s after sunset that the magic truly comes alive. The nocturnal light shows captivate and mesmerize, making the darkness shimmer with spookiness.
6. Nightmare on East Vogel
2615 E. Vogel Avenue, Cudahy, WI 53110
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Tucked away in the serene setting of Cudahy lies an expansive yard haunt that is sure to send shivers down your spine.
Spreading across three lots, the ‘Nightmare on East Vogel’ offers an interactive experience for the brave souls willing to walk its haunted grounds.
Encounter chilling figures like the moldy woman, menacing harvest monsters, towering 12-foot skeletal clowns, the eerie Pennywise, and many others as you activate touch pads that bring the spooky scenes to life.
For those looking to give back, there’s a barrel dedicated to the Urban Cat Coalition. Feel free to drop off cat essentials like food, treats, toys, or litter. And if you wish to make a monetary contribution, a mini coffin awaits your generosity right by the entrance near the apple tree.
Delve into this spectral domain from noon to 10 p.m. on weekends and during weekday evenings, weather permitting. For convenience, additional parking spaces are available on Delaware Avenue.
7. Halloween House on Oakland Ave.
4870 N. Oakland Avenue, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
Every Halloween, the house on Oakland Avenue transforms into a wonderland of spook and fun.
This annual setup is a haven for Halloween enthusiasts, with its expansive array of giant inflatables that set the festive mood.
Families can stroll through the display, capturing memorable, spooky photos to treasure for years to come.
And for the little ones, a special touch awaits: a mailbox dedicated to their creative Halloween drawings and notes.
The path is open from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m.
8. Jack-O-Lantern Nights at the Racine Zoo
Experience autumn’s magic at the Racine Zoo.
Meander through a dedicated pathway as the crisp fall air whispers tales of Halloween.
Over 1,000 intricately hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns, crafted by professional artists, dot the landscape. These pumpkin masterpieces, featuring designs from playful cats to wise owls, look stunning under the daytime sun. But as dusk falls, they come alive, casting a warm glow that adds to the evening’s charm.
New for 2023: Marvel at impressive pumpkin sculptures! A giraffe, a mighty rhino, a zebra, and other fascinating creatures come to life as multiple pumpkins merge and transform, complete with meticulously carved details.
As you revel in the festivities, the path will also be adorned with bewitching light displays that complement the pumpkin artistry.
But that’s not all – local businesses and organizations have joined the fun, competing in a decorating contest. As a guest, you’ll have the power to vote for your favorite decorated spot, with the winner crowned at the event’s close.
9. Holy Hill Skeletons
5256 State Road 167, Hubertus, WI 53033
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Prepare for a spine-tingling greeting from Jimmy Zamzow’s bony brigade!
Nestled just east of the iconic Holy Hill on Highway 167, this annual skeletal extravaganza is a must-see. Drawing from his expansive collection, Jimmy creatively arranges skeletons into thematic displays that never fail to entertain passersby.
This year’s theme is “Tour de Skull”!
For the best experience, consider visiting on a Friday or Saturday night when the entire scene sparkles under the illuminating glow of lights.
Finding the spectacle is easy! Simply input 5256 State Road 167, Hubertus, Wisconsin into your GPS and let the journey to the land of bones commence!
10. Suburban Acres Boneyard
173 W. Suburban Dr., Fox Point, WI
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Closed this year: The Ghost Train in Shorewood
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