U.S. Family Resorts Dial up the Spook Factor for Halloween

Plan a getaway at a family resort in October, and the chances are excellent that you'll run across more than a few goblins, ghouls, and ghosts. Here's a sampling of hotels and resorts that are hosting special Halloween events in October:

Nickelodeon Family Suites (events.nickhotel.com)

Where: Orlando, FL
Why: Because October is "Nick or Treat" month at the Nick Hotel (see the WeJustGotBack.com review). The hotel's activities range from paint-your-own-pumpkins and Halloween games to trick-or-treating with favorite Nick stars. On Saturday evenings, "Nick After Dark" kicks off with spooky movies, snacks, and plenty of slime. Family suites start at $169 to $219 a night. Book two nights and receive a third night free, plus a $50 spa credit with the "Free-for-Fall" special.

Great Wolf Lodge (www.greatwolf.com)

Where: Twelve locations in the U.S. and Canada, including Williamsburg, VA
Why: Back again this year, "Howl-O-ween at the Wolf" at this popular indoor waterpark resort (see our review) features a trick-or-treat trail, pumpkin painting, a trolley ride to a "haunted" cemetery, a spooktacular costume contest, Halloween-themed arts and crafts, and more. Available October 8-31, Sunday to Thursday, starting from $199 a night.

John Carver Inn & Spa (www.johncarverinn.com)

Where: Plymouth, MA
Why: The one-night "Haunted Stays and Corn Maize Package" save up to 30% on lodging, plus you get two tickets to a local corn maze, where there are hay rides, a cow train ride, and a corn cannon. The package also includes two tickets to a 90-minute "Ghosts & Legends" walking tour, which shares local history and points out the most haunted spots in Plymouth. This package is available on Fridays and Saturdays through October 31, starting at $151 a night.

Woodloch Resort (www.woodloch.com/Halloweenweekends)

Where: Hawley, PA
Why: Fun-filled weekends at this all-inclusive family-run resort (see our review) include a haunted hayride, scavenger hunt, costume party, pumpkin hunt, ghost stories by the campfire, petting zoo, and many other fall activities. Available October 15-31, all-inclusive three-day weekends starting at $320 per adult and $112 per child under 7.

Six Flags Great Escape Lodge (www.sixflagsgreatescapelodge.com/great-deals/)

Where: Lake George, NY
Why: The "Fright Fest Spooktacular" package at this indoor waterpark resort (see our review) includes unlimited admission to the waterpark, and 20 free arcade tokens per child. Plus, families have the run of the park's Halloween entertainment which includes haunted hayrides, wandering zombies, and a spooky street party. Available October 1-30, Friday and Saturday nights only, from $199.

Lake Lanier Islands Resort (www.lakelanierislands.com)

Where: Lake Lanier Islands, GA
Why: Located less than an hour from Atlanta, this hidden retreat has created a three-mile long Halloween light display that illuminates Lake Lanier. The Haunted Night of Lights package starts at $195 a night for a family of four and includes a vehicle pass to the light show, admission for four into the haunted maze and fun house, plus unlimited carnival and pony rides. Available October 1-31.

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa & Marina (www.missionbay.hyatt.com/)

Where: San Diego, CA
Why: This upscale resort is perched along the coastline just a stone's throw from the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and other family-friendly attractions. For Halloween weekend, expect scary but kid-friendly movie screenings, s'more roasts, a hula-hoop monster mash contest, and candy for trick-or-treaters. Waterslides will be open late night for spine-chilling rides with supernatural sounds and lighting effects. Rates start at $149 a night, and you can add Sunday night to your stay for half price.