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Adventureland’s Phantom Fall Fest Promises Family Fun and Frightful Haunts

Phantom Fall Fest

October 3, 2023

As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp, autumnal chill, Adventureland Resort is once again gearing up for its most spine-tingling and electrifying event of the year: Phantom Fall Fest! This fall, Adventureland transforms into a realm of relentless scares and electrifying entertainment, promising visitors an experience more terrifying than ever before.

A Frightful Feast for All Ages

Phantom Fall Fest has solidified itself as the largest Halloween event in Iowa, and this year it's back with even more family-friendly fun. Every Saturday and Sunday from 1 – 5 p.m., families are invited to embark on a journey down Main Street, where they can trick-or-treat at various stops along the all-new Trick-or-Treat Trail. But that's just the beginning! The park will also host a spook-tacular costume contest, a scream contest, an adventurous hay maze, Scary-oke sessions and the chance to showcase your artistic talents through pumpkin painting at the Rathskeller. These family activities are specifically designed for children 12 and under and are included with admission to the park.

When the Moon Rises, the Fear Takes Over

As the sun sets and the moon rises, Adventureland takes a sinister turn. The Frantic Freeway becomes the Frantic Fearway, with all-new lighting that promises a spooky new spin on the classic bumper car ride. Other favorites like Monster, Storm Chaser, Dragon Slayer and Space Shot stay open late into the night, providing an entirely different ride experience after dark with stunning light shows that create a completely different ride experience.

But the promise of more fog, scares and horrifying effects doesn't end there. Phantom Fall Fest introduces four brand-new scare zones: Deadsville, Nordic Nightmare, The Fallen and Hellbillies. These open-air horrors await brave souls around every eerie corner. In addition to the scare zones, there are four chilling haunted houses to explore, including the revamped mALICE in Wonderland, with a heart-pounding adventure featuring a new layout, dazzling lighting and spine-tingling special effects — all included with admission to the park. Other haunted houses include CarnEvil, Cornstalkers and Spirits of the Swamp, each promising a unique and horrifying experience.

Fast Passes and No-Boo Necklaces

For those looking to save time and jump straight into the frights, Adventureland offers an all-new Spooky Pass, granting expedited access to the haunted houses. And if you're seeking a milder fright, fear not! No-Boo necklaces will be available throughout the park, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities at their own pace.

Ghoulish Grub

Adventureland's culinary team is getting in on the Halloween action too. A tantalizing array of new Halloween-themed treats and drinks are featured throughout the park including Bleeding Meatballs, Diablo Chicken Siders, Demon Fries and more. Guests can experience the all-new Club Blood, where Halloween-inspired drinks, complete with glowing and smoking effects, await both kids and adults. Accompanied by a DJ spinning spine-tingling tunes and screenings of scary movies, Club Blood guarantees an unforgettable evening. At Doc and Leone's Diner, a mad scientist takes over the bar, serving up wine blood bags and syringe Jell-O shots for a uniquely chilling culinary adventure.

Dare to Compete in the Phantom's Worm Eating Contest

Think you're the creepiest crawler connoisseur in town? Dare to devour or step aside, the choice is yours. Join the Phantom's Worm Eating Contest and be the first to eat SIX earthworms to win a YETI Cooler Prize Pack, two 2024 Platinum Season Passes and a one-of-a-kind Worm Cake from Andrew Fuller, winner of Netflix's 'Is It Cake'! All participants also receive an exclusive worm-themed shirt from RAYGUN.

Get Your 2024 Season Pass Now

The best way to take advantage of all Adventureland Resort has to offer this year and all next year is with a 2024 season pass. For a limited time, guests can save up to $50 and enjoy the rest of 2023 for free. Season passes can be purchased online at AdventurelandResort.com.

Phantom Fall Fest at Adventureland promises a Halloween experience like no other. Whether you're seeking spine-tingling scares or family-friendly fun, Adventureland Resort has it all covered this fall. Don't miss out on the biggest and most thrilling Halloween event in Iowa — mark your calendars and get ready for a hauntingly good time!

The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses or events specific to Downtown DSM.

Adventureland Resort

Adventureland Resort is the Home of Iowa’s Best Thrills. From fun that kids and adults can enjoy together to thrilling world-class rides like the Monster, Adventureland Resort offers something for everyone in the family. New in 2023, Viking invaders bring the Flying Viking roller coaster and Draken Falls log ride.