Haunt Manor is one of Ontario’s largest and most popular haunted attractions, known for its elaborate haunted houses, thrilling hayrides, and immersive scare zones. While the primary focus of Haunt Manor is on delivering spine-chilling experiences, it is also possible for families to enjoy the attractions together, including those with younger children. If you’re planning a visit to Haunt Manor with your kids, here are some tips to ensure everyone has a great time while keeping the frights at an enjoyable level.
Choose the Right Time to Visit
One of the most important factors to consider when bringing children to Haunt Manor is timing. The attractions are typically open on select dates throughout September and October, with opening hours that vary depending on the night. To avoid overwhelming your children, consider visiting earlier in the evening before the crowds grow larger and the atmosphere becomes more intense. This can also give your family the chance to explore the attractions in a more relaxed setting.
Pick the Appropriate Attractions
Haunt Manor offers a wide variety of attractions, each with its own theme and level of scare intensity. For families with younger children, it’s essential to choose attractions that are more suitable for their age group. While the haunted hayride and haunted houses are the main draws, these can be quite intense for younger visitors.
- Haunted Hayride: The hayride is a popular attraction that takes visitors through a spooky forest with live actors and special effects. While it can be scary, the outdoor setting and the fact that you’re in a group on the wagon can make it less intense for children. However, be mindful that there are still plenty of jump scares and eerie scenes along the way.
- Outdoor Areas and Less Intense Attractions: Haunt Manor includes several outdoor areas and scare zones that might be more manageable for children. These areas often feature actors in costume and themed decorations, but they tend to be less confined and less intense than the haunted houses.
If you’re uncertain about whether a particular attraction is appropriate for your children, don’t hesitate to ask the staff. They can provide guidance on which experiences are most family-friendly.
Prepare Your Children for the Experience
Preparation is key to ensuring your children enjoy their visit to Haunt Manor. Before you go, talk to them about what to expect. Explain that the monsters and spooky characters they see are just actors in costumes, and everything is meant to be fun and pretend. Reassure them that they are safe, and if they get too scared, they can let you know, and you’ll find a quieter place to take a break.
It’s also a good idea to dress your children in comfortable clothing and bring along any items that might help them feel more secure, such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.
Take Advantage of Break Areas
Haunt Manor can be an overwhelming experience, especially for younger children. Be aware of designated break areas where you can take a moment to relax if your child needs a breather. These areas are great for regrouping and calming down before moving on to the next attraction. Additionally, the onsite cafe and gift shop offer a chance to take a break and enjoy some refreshments or souvenirs, which can be a nice way to break up the experience.
Consider Age Recommendations
While Haunt Manor welcomes families, it’s important to consider the recommended age guidelines for the attractions. Many of the haunted houses and scare zones are designed with older teens and adults in mind, so they may not be suitable for very young children. Generally, it’s advised that children under 12 might find some of the attractions too intense. Use your judgment based on your child’s temperament and previous experiences with haunted houses or similar attractions.
Making Memories Together
Visiting Haunt Manor with kids can be a thrilling and memorable experience, as long as you take the necessary precautions and choose attractions that match your family’s comfort level. By visiting during the earlier hours, selecting age-appropriate attractions, and preparing your children for what to expect, you can ensure that everyone in the family has a fun and enjoyable time at one of Ontario’s premier haunted attractions.
For more details on Haunt Manor’s attractions, schedule, and ticketing, see their contact page.