5 Places for Horror Fanatics to Visit in October

Are you ready to embrace the spooky excitement of Halloween?

For horror fanatics, the month of October is like an extended holiday... a time to revel in all things eerie, creepy, and downright spooky. From haunted houses to horror movie memorabilia, here are 5 must-visit places for every ghoul and ghost enthusiast. It's about to get spooky!

1. Oliver's Toy Chest

209 Main Street | Hamilton, Ohio

This local toy store specializes in horror movie nostalgia, memorabilia and toys. The walls throughout Oliver's Toy Chest are even decorated with murals portraying popular horror movie classics like It, Halloween, and Scream! Not only is it a fun toy store, but also an incredible tribute to 10-year-old Oliver Robbins who passed away from cancer in 2021. Oliver's parents opened the toy store in his honor, as he had a deep love for toys and collecting— especially in the horror genre. His favorite was the A Nightmare on Elm Street film series. 

2. Land of Illusion Haunted Scream Park

8762 Thomas Road | Middletown, Ohio

If you're a fan of haunted houses, you have to check out the Haunted Scream Park at Land of Illusion. Originally known as The Middletown Haunted Trail, the Land of Illusion Haunted Scream Park is a one-of-a-kind celebration of terror, featuring 6 different haunted houses: Killer Klowns, Dr. Pyscho's Haunted Estate, Temple of Terror, Middletown Haunted Trail, Dysphoria, and Phobia. This year the haunted attractions will run from early September through October 29, 2023. 

3. The Toy Department

5960 Dixie Highway | Fairfield, Ohio

If you love horror movies like the Halloween series— or really any classic or modern horror movie— you have to check out the collection at The Toy Department. As one of the largest toy stores in the country, they specialize in rare collectibles and pre-production prototypes. Their horror section features toys and memorabilia from movies like Annabelle, Chucky, and more... like this authentic, signed Michael Myers mask! (pictured)

4. Dayton Lane Historic District

712 Dayton Street | Hamilton, Ohio

It's hard to miss the beautiful, historic homes throughout Dayton Lane in Hamilton... but many of them house a mysterious past. Legend has it that many of these homes are haunted. If you have any interest in pursuing the mysterious and supernatural, the city of Hamilton hosts an annual Dayton Lane Historic District Ghost Walk every October for those who are brave enough!

5. The Swire Inn

64 S Main Street | Middletown, Ohio

Add even more fun to your Halloween celebrations with the spooky cocktails created at The Swire Inn. Known for their comfort food and craft cocktails, this local pub-style restaurant is big into the Halloween season. Pictured is their Dracula Martini, a coconut vanilla martini rimmed with red honey. They also host a variety of events throughout October, including their Costume Party this Halloween 2023!