Yoga in the Garden Spooky Edition
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Des Moines Unique & Unusual Halloween Events 2026
2 unique & unusual Halloween events in Des Moines and nearby.
As Halloween approaches, Des Moines and surrounding towns offer various ways to celebrate. For those seeking a lively night out, consider events like the Witches Walk. If you prefer a more family-friendly or free experience, other local gatherings are available.
These events highlight different aspects of the season, from downtown gatherings to those a short drive away, catering to varied preferences for how to mark the occasion.
All Unique & Unusual Halloween Events Around Des Moines
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Family-Friendly Fall Activities
1 of 15
Spooky Science
Des Moines
Hair-raising experiments and creepy-crawly critters for family Halloween fun.
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Food, Drink, and Parties
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Des Moines Halloween Bar Crawl
Des Moines
Halloween bar crawl featuring drink vouchers and an after party
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Haunted Experiences
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Linn's Haunted House
Des Moines
Classic haunted house located in a supermarket basement since 1984.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should we book a private or public ghost tour in Des Moines for our group?
Public tours are cheaper per person and fine for one to four people, but the math flips around six-plus: a private booking often costs about the same as individual tickets while letting you set pace, route emphasis, and scare level, and questions flow freely without strangers. Private slots on October weekends book out weeks ahead, so decide early.
How long do ghost tours and walking events in Des Moines typically last?
The standard is 90 minutes covering about a mile at a stop-and-story pace; extended versions run two-plus hours and add interior visits. The pace is slower than a normal walk but heavy on standing, which tires people more than distance does. Plan the parking meter and babysitter around a hard two hours, and take the pre-tour restroom stop seriously, since routes rarely include one.
Can kids come on ghost tours in Des Moines?
Family-friendly early tours, usually the 7 pm slot, keep stories spooky but not graphic and welcome ages 8-plus; late-night tours lean into murder and macabre detail and often set 13+ or 18+ minimums. Check the tour's stated age guidance and pick the early slot for first-timers. Ninety minutes of night walking is the real limit for younger kids, so check the route length.