Haunted but Family-Friendly: Kid-Approved Ghost Tours & Attractions

Halloween season is one of my favorite times to travel because destinations everywhere lean into spooky fun. But if you’re traveling with little ones, you know that some haunted houses and ghost tours are just a little too much. That’s why I love finding kid-friendly ghost tours, family Halloween attractions, and haunted fun for kids that give everyone a chance to enjoy the season—without the nightmares.

In this post, I’ll share some of the best not-so-scary Halloween trips and activities for families. Think trolley rides, lantern-lit ghost tours, and even glow-in-the-dark mini golf!

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Why Choose Family-Friendly Haunted Attractions?

Kids love the excitement of Halloween—pumpkins, costumes, candy, and a little bit of spooky magic. But when they’re too young for chainsaws, jump scares, or creepy actors chasing them in the dark, parents often feel stuck between skipping Halloween fun altogether or braving something that ends in tears.

That’s where family Halloween attractions shine. These experiences are designed with all ages in mind, offering just the right amount of mystery, history, and Halloween spirit. Parents get to soak in the atmosphere, and kids leave excited—not terrified.

Top Family-Friendly Haunted Attractions

🚋 Haunted Trolley Rides

In many towns, trolleys transform during October into haunted rides with glowing lights, ghost stories, and seasonal decorations. Unlike haunted houses, these are all about storytelling and atmosphere, making them perfect for kids. Some even include stops at historic cemeteries or landmarks with lighthearted tales instead of jump scares.

Check out this one in St. Augustine, FL, America’s Most Haunted city.

🕯️ Kid-Approved Ghost Tours

Many historic towns—like St. Augustine, Savannah, or Eureka Springs—offer kid friendly ghost tours that focus more on legends and folklore than frightening theatrics. Guides often use lanterns, which adds a fun old-timey feel without being overwhelming. For school-aged kids, it’s the perfect way to mix history with Halloween fun.

This goes along perfectly with my Haunted Arkansas Adventures, where I explored spooky sites with fascinating histories. If you loved that post, adding a ghost tour to your family’s fall trip might be the next step!

⛳ Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf

Want something spooky but not scary at all? Glow-in-the-dark or Halloween-themed mini golf courses are a hit with all ages. With glowing skeletons, neon spiderwebs, and glowing pumpkins, it’s more silly than scary—and kids get to burn off energy while parents enjoy the festive theming.

Try out Branson Big Foot Mini Golf in Branson, MO.

🎃 Haunted Theme Parks (the Not-So-Scary Side)

Big destinations like Disney and Universal go all out for Halloween, but not every event is designed for kids. That’s why I’m excited to share my Haunted Disney post, where I highlight ghostly stories and attractions that kids can actually enjoy—like the Haunted Mansion ride and other family-friendly spots that carry a hint of the supernatural.

One of our favorite locations with a haunted vibe is Ripley’s Believe It or Not. With locations all around the US, Ripley’s is a great addition to any family-friendly road trip. Click here for discount tickets to the Branson, MO location.

These are great examples of how even big theme parks offer a “spooky but safe” side of Halloween travel.

Tips for Parents Taking Kids on Haunted Adventures

• Check age recommendations before booking tours. Many family ghost tours list “all ages” in their descriptions.
• Go earlier in the evening when kids are less tired and the crowds are smaller.
• Bring comfort items like a small flashlight or glow stick (bonus: fun photo ops!).
• Set expectations by letting kids know the adventure is about stories, not scares.
• Other Options include Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes that are full of family-fun.

Keep the Haunted Fun Going

If your family is ready for more spooky-but-safe adventures, don’t miss:

• 👻 My Haunted Arkansas Adventure – exploring family-friendly haunted history close to home.
• 🏰 My Haunted Disney Post – ghostly tales inside the happiest place on Earth.
• From Halloweentown to Haystack Rock: My October Weekend Getaway Plans – features the REAL Halloweentown and filming locations from the Halloweentown and Twighlight Movies.

With the right planning, you can give your kids a magical Halloween season filled with adventure—not nightmares.

Ready to start planning your own Dream Vacation? Contact me today: [email protected]. I understand that each family is unique and offer individualized family vacation planning to help you tailor your vacation to fit your family.

Remember… Life’s Short… Take the Trip! 🎃