This Small Midwestern Town Is the ‘Halloween Capital of the World’—With Spooky Ghost Tours and a Haunted Bar

Anoka, Minnesota, could easily get lost in the crowded tourism market. However, the town of just about 18,000 people has a secret. It’s actually the “Halloween Capital of the World.”

How did this tiny town along the scenic Rum River, approximately 20 miles north of Minneapolis, earn such an accolade? For starters, it’s the first place in the U.S. to host an official Halloween celebration—and it’s been holding spooky events ever since. 

“Anoka has a long tradition as the ‘Halloween Capital of the World,’ dating back to 1920. With three parades and numerous events throughout the month of October, there’s something for everyone,” said Peter Turok, president of Anoka’s Chamber of Commerce. As Karen George, an Anoka native and a member of the Chamber of Commerce, added, travelers don’t need to attend a specific event to get into the spirit. “The historic downtown is decorated with our signature Halloween banners, and the local businesses have Halloween displays,” she shared.  

From paranormal ghost tours to 5k races, there really is something for all types of travelers in Anoka. But if you need a little more inspiration and guidance, here’s where George and Turok suggest you go to make the most of your Halloween-themed visit. 

What to Do in Anoka for Halloween

Watch the Anoka Halloween parade.

Anoka’s Grande Day Parade is a Halloween season highlight. Visitors line the streets to see the creative floats and costumed performers put on a show to remember. Just be sure to arrive early to snag a prime viewing spot. And if you miss this one, don’t worry—there’s also the Light up the Night Parade, an illuminated procession that ends with a bonfire, and the kid-centered Big Parade of Little People.

Join a themed race.

Feeling sporty? Sign up for the Gray Ghost Run, an Anoka tradition since 1985. Participants can pick between a one-mile walk or a 5k race. And yes, of course, you can (and should) run in costume. Again, sign up early, as this race tends to sell out quickly. 

Feel a chill on an Anoka ghost tour.

Tag along with the Anoka County Historical Society for a ghost tour through some of the town’s most haunted spots. As for what to expect from the walk, the Historical Society says “there’s a house where the rocking chair rocks with no one sitting in it,” as well as a business where the employees avoid parts of the building where a woman has been seen only in a mirror.

Where to Stay in Anoka

Ticknor Hill Bed & Breakfast

This historic Victorian mansion, built in 1867, has been lovingly turned into a bed-and-breakfast. Even better, it’s close to the town’s main attractions, including the Halloween festivities, so you can pop in and out as often as you wish. 

Where to Eat in Anoka

The Mad Hatter

Enjoy a bit of whimsy on your trip to Anoka by booking an afternoon tea at The Mad Hatter. The restaurant offers several high tea experiences, including its Queen of Hearts service that includes tea, scones, savories, and a dessert trio. There’s also a Cheshire Children’s Tea service ideal for those traveling with younger kids. 

Serum’s Good Time Emporium

Get a hearty Midwest bite at Serum’s Good Time Emporium, a town staple. The restaurant is famous for its wings and lively bar scene, and the historic building it’s housed in makes it even more of a must-see.

MaGillycuddy’s

Get quick and easy service at MaGillycuddy’s, another local favorite in Anoka. The low-key eatery is beloved for its comfort food, particularly its burgers. Plus, it regularly hosts karaoke events, so start practicing your favorite tune. 

Billy’s Bar & Grill

For both great food and some spooky fun, head to Billy’s Bar & Grill. The bar is housed in a building dating back to the 1800s and has a reputation for being haunted by former workers. Despite a few ghosts, Billy’s has remained a popular spot, with pizzas and burgers being the go-to items on the menu. 

When to Visit Anoka

The best time to visit Anoka is throughout the month of October, when the town embraces its Halloween heritage. The crisp autumn air and vibrant fall colors make for an ideal backdrop to all the themed activities like the 5k race. “There are events all month long,” Turok says, “but if I had to pick one day, it would be the last Saturday in October, as that’s the Grande Day Parade.”

If Halloween isn’t your thing, Anoka is still worthy of a visit during the other seasons. As Turok explains, “Anoka is one of the oldest cities in Minnesota, and with its unique history, it’s small-town America at its best.” Strolling the streets of downtown along the scenic Rum River is a treat any time of year.

How to Get Around Anoka

By Car: If you plan to visit Anoka, it’s best—and most convenient—if you have your own four wheels. Having a car allows you to explore the town more readily and see the surrounding area along the Rum River. And luckily, there’s ample parking downtown.

By Public Transport: If you don’t want to rent a car there’s a local bus service, though it may not run as frequently as other buses do in larger cities.

How to Get to Anoka

By Plane: The nearest major airport to Anoka is Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, about 37 miles from the center of town. From there, you can rent a car from major companies like Hertz and Enterprise to get you the rest of the way. 

By Car: Anoka is easily accessible via U.S. Route 10 and Minnesota State Highway 47. It’s about a 30-minute drive northwest of downtown Minneapolis, so it’s an easy day trip or long weekend destination. 

By Train: Want to skip the car? Just book a ticket on the Northstar commuter rail, which provides regular service from Minneapolis to Anoka, with a journey time of about 30 minutes (roughly the same as driving, minus the hassle). The Anoka station is also centrally located, making it easy to explore the town sans vehicle.