Get Spooked at the Winchester Mystery House

Why Go

The notoriously haunted Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is a perfect Halloween getaway destination for both adults and families with older kids.

Since its first construction in 1886, the enormous mansion has had a reputation as a haunted house with paranormal activity. The unusual architecture and layout of its roughly 161 rooms, combined with the personal history and beliefs of its original owner, Sarah Winchester, account for its reputation.

For modern-day visitors on Halloween, in 2023 the mystery house features a show called “Unhinged: Housewarming”, a new experience and follow-up to last year’s “Unhinged: Nightshade’s Curse” show. Like last year, it’s a scary show, so they recommend the show for kids 13 or older (younger kids must be accompanied by an adult). Feel free to dress up in a prohibition era costume and immerse yourself in the experience!

There are a few nearby attractions that you can add to your itinerary to make this a weekend getaway worthy of an overnight stay. Adults and groups will enjoy the shopping, restaurants, and bars of Santana Row right across the street. With its mummies and Afterlife Gallery, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a fascinating warm-up for a night of paranormal activity.