Going to your first haunted house can feel like stepping into a whole new world—one filled with screams, surprises, and lots of heart-pounding fun. At The Haunting Experience in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, we specialize in making your very first spooky night unforgettable. We know how exciting (and a little nerve-wracking) it can be to take the plunge into a haunted attraction, and we’re here to help you feel ready and excited!
Whether you’re a total newbie or just someone who’s been talked into going by your braver friends, we’ve got everything you need to know to have the most fun (and frightening!) time possible.
What to Expect at The Haunting Experience
If this is your first haunted house, you’re in for something special. At The Haunting Experience, we’ve spent over 38 years perfecting our scares. That’s right—nearly four decades of frights, screams, and unforgettable Halloween memories. We’re proud to say we’re the scariest haunted house in Minnesota. Located along Highway 61, we’re a Twin Cities tradition that draws brave souls from all over the state.
Once you arrive, you’ll have the option to start with our legendary haunted hayride or go straight into the haunted house. The hayride is perfect for warming up—think of it as dipping your toes into the terrifying waters before diving in. But if you’re feeling brave? Head straight into the house.
Inside, you’ll navigate twisted corridors, explore the wreckage of a cursed hospital, and come face-to-face with shocking sights, chilling sounds, and even disturbing smells. It’s more than just a walk—it’s an experience. One that’ll test your nerves and have your heart pounding from start to finish.
Tips for Surviving Your First Haunted House
There are a few things you can do to ensure you have the best visit possible.
- Dress for success: Comfortable clothes and shoes are a must. You’ll be walking, running (maybe), and possibly jumping, so dress like you’re going on a mini adventure. Leave anything bulky, heavy, or valuable at home. You do not want to be worrying about your outfit when you’re trying to outrun a zombie.
- Don’t go alone: Your first haunted house is way more fun with friends. Bring a group and share the scares together. Plus, it’s always better to have someone to cling to when things get a little too spooky.
- Expect the unexpected: Jump scares, creepy characters, and sudden loud noises are all part of the fun. Don’t try to predict what’s coming. Just go with it! The best moments happen when you’re caught totally off guard, so stay loose and enjoy the ride.
- Let yourself get scared: Don’t fight the fear—embrace it! Screaming, laughing, and even closing your eyes (briefly!) are all part of the experience. You’ll leave with stories you’ll be talking about all season.
- Stay respectful: Our actors are here to scare, not to hurt. Don’t touch them, and they won’t touch you. It’s all for fun. Being respectful helps everyone, including your group, our staff, and the other guests, have the best night possible.
Why Our Guests Keep Coming Back
We’ve had first-timers turn into annual regulars after one visit to our haunted house. Why? Because we deliver a haunting experience unlike anything else in Minnesota.
People love to share their stories, and nothing bonds a group of friends like a shared scream-fest. Whether it’s a family outing, a date night, or just a wild evening with your squad, our haunted house is a memory-maker.
And while we’re known for our haunted house, don’t forget to check out our other attractions while you’re here. After your journey through the horror house, hop on our famous haunted hay ride for a chilling journey through the dark Minnesota countryside. It’s the perfect mix of eerie calm and terrifying surprises.
Looking for something even more intense? Dare to enter our chainsaw massacre cornfield path. This twisted trail isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s filled with sharp turns, creepy characters, and yes, chainsaws.
Your First Time Doesn’t Have to Be Scary (Well, Not Too Scary)
We know visiting your first haunted house can feel overwhelming. But that’s why our team works hard to make it more thrilling than terrifying. We want you to laugh, scream, and most of all, have a blast. Our staff is trained to balance fright with fun, so you always feel safe even when you’re scared out of your mind.
Got a medical condition that needs accommodations, like sensitivity to strobe lights? No problem. Let us know ahead of time, and we’ll make adjustments to keep your experience safe and enjoyable.
And remember—this isn’t just a haunted house. It’s a full-on Halloween event. The moment you step on our grounds, the energy changes. You’ll see other guests jumping, laughing, and even high-fiving actors after a good scare.
Make the Most of Your Visit
You only get one first haunted house visit, so make it count! Get your tickets in advance to avoid long lines, or grab our Fast Pass to skip the wait entirely. Want to capture the night? Bring your phone (just keep it safe in your pocket during the attractions) and grab some photos with our creepy characters outside the house.
Make a whole evening of it. Come early, enjoy the food trucks, grab some hot cider, and take in the spooky atmosphere. We’ve created a space where you can relax, laugh, and make unforgettable memories, all while getting the scare of your life.
Contact Us Today
If you’re ready to make your Halloween unforgettable, now is the time to take the leap and face your fears at The Haunting Experience. Our team is here to make sure your first haunted house is filled with fun, laughter, and just the right amount of fright. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in a world of creepy characters, terrifying visuals, and an atmosphere that captures the true spirit of Halloween.
Don’t just hear about the fun from your friends; be part of it! Whether you’re coming with a date, your best friends, or your whole family, there’s no better place to spend a fall night in Minnesota. Contact The Haunting Experience today at (651) 459-3001 to plan your visit, book your tickets, and prepare for an experience you’ll never forget. We can’t wait to scare you!