);

Haunted Spots Designed to Spook

Thrills and chills, ghosts and goblins, gore and guts are all key elements of the best haunted houses and other attractions in the Washington area. If you are looking for a good scare, here are a few places to get spooked:

Markoff’s Haunted ForestsThe trail is the largest attraction of Markoff’s Haunted Forests,rated in the top 13 Haunts in the United States by AOL City Guide and No. 1 by channel 7 (ABC). It also includes activities such as the Death Jump, Haunted Bus, Haunted Hayrides, Spider Walk (rock climbing), Bat Flight and painting. MHF is jam packed with tricks and treats from the young and young at heart. It is open through Nov. 1.

Location:19120 MartinsburgDickerson, MD

Contact:markoff@mac.com

Bennett’s Curse “House of Vampryes”Leave the children at home for this one (not recommended for children 10 and under). This spooktacular house was rated one of the top attractions in 2007 by Americas Best Haunts. Using special effects and new technology, this attraction traces the story of a battle between a royal empire and the forces of evil; the outcome is unknown until you experience it yourself. Visiting the Web site is even a chilling experience, although it offers coupons and speedy passes for online guests.

Location:7000 Arundel Mills CircleHanover, MD

Contact:info@bennettscurse.comwww.bennettscurse.com

Nightmare Manor

“Bring your friends and enemies too” From the makers of Markoff’s Haunted Forest A HREF=<"http://www.nightmare-manor.com/">Nightmare Manor is a new attraction guaranteed to leave you spooked. It offers a variety of attractions beyond the haunted house. In fact, the organizers of this Farm Preservation Fundraiser advise visitors to “bring your friends and enemies, too.” However, it is not recommended for children under nine – although adults should beware, too.

Location:19000 Darnestown RoadBeallsville, MD

Contact:nightmaremanor@verizon.netPhone: 301-948-3141