Next time you're in Albuquerque, you could stay in a generic hotel, which serves as a place to sleep but does little to enhance your visit. But, if you want to stay someplace spooky, creepy, and even haunted, then we've got you covered. There are haunted hotels in Albuquerque that can certainly give you a fright. These hotels are known as some of the scariest places in Albuquerque and if you are in search of paranormal activity, these are some of the best places to go in the city. So, add some excitement to your trip by booking a room at one of these three haunted hotels in Albuquerque.
By New Mexico standards, Hotel Parq Central appears grand from the outside. Inside, the hotel has an inviting feel, with a soothing earth-toned color scheme complemented by pops of pale blue.
The building first opened as a hospital catering to ailing railroad employees. During the 1980s, its name was changed to Memorial Hospital and it became a psychiatric facility.
Patients insisted that the hospital was haunted. They reported having their bed sheets tugged off during the night.
It took extensive renovations to convert Memorial Hospital into Hotel Parq Central. But can a new paint job erase restless spirits? Book a night here if you want to find out!
Casa Esencia is a private event venue for Hotel Albuquerque that can accommodate close to 300 people - and possibly a few spirits. That’s hardly surprising given that it was built in 1783 by a man named Salvador Armijo. This building is on the official National Register of Historic Places and unofficial haunted places lists.
Employees have heard unexplained noises and voices. Some experienced the feeling of being touched when no one (visible) was present. Now that’s creepy!
To increase your likelihood of a ghostly encounter, it’s probably not enough to stay in one of Hotel Albuquerque’s 188 rooms. You also need to score an invite to an event at Casa Esencia.
Many don’t realize that Conrad Hilton hails from New Mexico. Hotel Andaluz is one of the entrepreneur’s early hotels (his fourth to be precise). When it opened in 1939, it was the first building in New Mexico to boast air conditioning! Since then, it has been updated in a series of renovations, the most recent of which were completed in 2008. This building is on the National Register of Historic Places.
As you walk inside the lobby woodwork, glasswork, and arches create a Moroccan meets New Mexican vibe that is both gorgeous and relaxing. There are private nooks, nicknamed casbahs, ideal for meetings or simply lounging. Hotel Andaluz also has a rooftop lounge, named Ibiza. But the real hidden gem is MÁS, the hotel’s restaurant and tapas bar.
All of these features make Hotel Andaluz an ideal place to stay. However, paranormal encounters have been reported over the years. People have complained about jewelry being moved around and hearing screaming in the middle of the night! If these rumors leave you scared of the dark, you can always bring your pooch along for some added protection!
Have you stayed at any of these hotels? Would you like to? Do you love all things creepy and spooky? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
If you really want to be terrified, embark on this road trip through all the haunted places in southern New Mexico. Alternatively, check out Cuervo, one of our state's creepiest ghost towns.
Let's dive into the twinkling wonderland of Michigan! This lineup of the best Christmas lights in Michigan is your ticket to an unforgettable holiday season. From cozy local gems to jaw-dropping extravaganzas, these light displays make Michigan's winter nights feel like pure magic. Join me as we explore the most enchanting Christmas lights in the state, spreading holiday cheer and charm.
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1. Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak
Christmas lights at the Detroit Zoo
Immerse yourself in the holiday vibes at Wild Lights. It's the Detroit Zoo's annual holiday light show, and folks absolutely love it. With nearly 500 dazzling displays, including millions of twinkling LED lights adorning everything from buildings to trees, sculptures, and even a cool light tunnel you can walk through, it's a fun experience for all ages.
2. Magic of Lights at the Pine Knob Music Theatre, Clarkston
Magic of Lights at Pine Knob Music Theatre in Clarkston is a mesmerizing drive-through holiday lights festival featuring a 200-foot light tunnel and more than 40 holiday light scenes. With accessible winding roads and helpful staff, it's a perfect family outing. Experience the magic from the comfort of your car as you enjoy sparkling LED displays of your favorite holiday characters.
3. The Christmas Lite Show, Comstock Park
Come and immerse yourself in the Christmas Lite Show, the grandest holiday light display in West Michigan, held at LMCU Ballpark. Whether you're a first-time or returning visitor, there are various ways to revel in the enchantment of nearly two miles of a million lights, animated displays, and magical lighted tunnels. You can cruise through the Drive-Thru, hop aboard the Memory Lane Train, take a close-up stroll through the Winter Wonder Walk, and even enjoy a unique Reindeer Bike Ride. And don't forget to stop by The Santa House on special evenings for an added touch of holiday delight.
4. The Big, Bright Light Show, Downtown Rochester
String of lights at the Big, Bright Light Show on main street Rochester Road in Downtown Rochester, Michigan with stores and businesses decorated with Holiday Christmas lights
Join in on the fun for a wonderful holiday experience in Downtown Rochester as the city lights up the night with The Big, Bright Light Show! More than a million sparkling holiday lights will adorn the downtown buildings, creating a magical spectacle. You can enjoy this dazzling display every evening during the holiday season.
5. Glenlore Trails Aurora, Commerce Charter Township
Get ready for a frosty adventure that's fun for all ages! This holiday season, don't miss out on Michigan's enchanted forest of lights, Glenlore Trails Aurora. Wander along a one-mile outdoor path with interactive experiences, storytelling, and other exciting entertainment. Some nights will even feature live music, themed activities, and surprise visits from the one and only Santa Claus.
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6. River Lights of Wonder, Three Rivers
River Lights of Wonder is a beloved tradition illuminating Three Rivers since 2018. The spectacular light displays, reflecting on the St. Joseph River, create an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Beyond the lights, River Lights offers a variety of engaging activities, making it a true community celebration, including a drive-through, lollipop train, hayride, fire pit, indoor movie, children's activities, and character photos. I love an event that has a lot of fun activities, and River Lights of Wonder has just that!
7. Light Up The Bluff, St Joseph
Prepare to be amazed as the bluff undergoes a fantastic winter transformation during Light Up The Bluff, along with the Community Tree Lighting ceremony. The evening kicks off with the St. Joseph High School Choir serenading by the tree with Christmas carols. Once the sun sets, over a million lights come alive, turning Lake Bluff Park into a winter dreamland. It's the perfect time to bring your sweetheart or gather the entire family for a delightful stroll under the sparkling arches of light.
8. Spring Lake Sparkle, Spring Lake
Brace yourself and be wowed by Spring Lake's downtown area, where they've decked it out with more than 400,000 multicolored lights and festive displays, turning it into a holiday fantasyland. You can soak up the holly jolly spirit, snap pics with Santa, and grab some tasty food and drinks. Plus, some local businesses keep their doors open longer to spread even more holiday cheer. Make it a new tradition, and bring your loved ones to enjoy Spring Lake Sparkle.
9. Christmas Holiday Magic at Crossroads, Flint
Get set to create memories that will warm your heart throughout the year at Crossroads Village during the Christmas season. The streets and shops light up with thousands of twinkling lights, and you can hop on the Huckleberry Railroad for a charming ride while village artisans craft vintage goodies. It's the perfect place to find gifts for your loved ones - a family tradition you won't want to miss.
Have you checked out any of these festive spots? Do you think these are some of the best Christmas lights in Michigan? I think The Christmas Lite Show looks fantastic, how about you?
Are you planning to take a road to get to these holiday hotspots? Make sure you have a road trip packing list!
Wintertime in Missouri promises so many magical moments - from the peaceful silence after the first snowfall to strolling down snow-dusted Main Streets as we go Christmas shopping. While we might not all love the return of the cold and the snow, we can all likely agree that winter in Missouri offers a ton of fun and plenty of memorable moments, even if we're just curled up under our favorite blanket, watching the snow fall outside. When you're ready for adventure, here are some of the best things to do in Missouri in winter.
Certainly one of the highlights of winter, the holiday season is usually jam-packed with things to do. While Christmas shopping, cooking, baking, and decorating can fill up much of our time, we sometimes need to slow down and soak up the season with family and friends. Get in the holiday spirit with one of the best walk-thru or drive-thru Christmas light displays in Missouri, and bring the whole family to one of the best Christmas festivals in Missouri. Here are some holiday events in Missouri to help get you started.
1. Winter Wonderland
Location: St. Louis
Popularity: Extremely popular, expect crowds, especially 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Price: Family vehicle $20
Make the car toasty; turn up the Christmas carols, and slowly drive through the Winter Wonderland of Tilles Park in St. Louis. The beloved drive-thru Christmas lights display in Missouri has been a staple since 1987. Marvel at the more than one million lights and 100 Christmas light displays as you drive through light tunnels and past beloved holiday characters. Tickets can be purchased in advance. Winter Wonderland runs daily, except on Christmas Eve, from late November through December 30. Hours are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
2. Christmas Lights In The Park
Location: Moberly
Popularity: Popular. Expect a wait, especially on weekends.
Price: Free
Start a new tradition with a drive through Christmas Lights in the Park at Rothwell Park in Moberly. The free event offers an idyllic way to get into the Christmas spirit as you wind your way past more than 100 Christmas displays and thousands of dazzling lights. Christmas Lights in the Park kicks off the season with a tree-lighting ceremony on Nov. 26, 2023. The drive-thru light display in Missouri will run on select nights through Dec. 23. Donations to Altrusa, the event's sponsor, are welcome.
3. Santa’s Magical Kingdom
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Location: Eureka
Popularity: Can get really busy, especially on the weekends
Price: $35 (family vehicle); $45 (passenger van, transport van, small bus)
Pile the whole family in the car for a magical Christmastime adventure at Santa's Magical Kingdom. The drive-thru Christmas lights display in Missouri boasts millions of twinkling lights, a tunnel of lights, and a lights waterfall. Keep the magic going after your drive by heading into Jellystone Park for more holiday fun. Santa's on hand to listen to Christmas wishes; visit Kringle's Store, and indulge in a seasonal treat. Climb aboard a wagon ride, too. Santa's Magical Kingdom runs from mid-November through early January. Hours vary depending on the day and the time of the season.
4. Powell Gardens
Location: Kingsville
Popularity: Can get extremely busy during the weekend
Price: $8-$16. Children four and younger are free.
Bundle up for a stroll through the Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens, an epic annual event that runs from mid-November through the end of December. Whether you're starting or continuing a beloved Christmastime tradition, take your time as you meander through light tunnels and past glittering Christmas trees. Powell Gardens lights up from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
5. Silver Dollar City
Location: Branson
Popularity: Extremely popular, especially on the weekends
Price: Tickets start at $89. Additional activities and events may cost extra.
Step into a winter wonderland of millions of twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and seasonal entertainment at An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City. Boasting more than 6.5 million lights, Silver Dollar City promises a ton of fun - visits with Santa, a Christmas parade, family-friendly entertainment, and delicious food. An Old Time Christmas runs from early November through the end of December. Hours vary depending on the day.
6. Grant’s Farm
Location: St. Louis
Popularity: Can get quite busy
Price: Ranges from $12-$29+
Make the most of the merry season with a visit to Grant's Farm in St. Louis. Whether you decide to drive through or walk through the farm that's aglow with more than one million lights, you're sure to get into the Christmas spirit. You can book a carriage ride that will take you on a magical journey to see the lights or warm up next to your very own VIP fire pit. Or how about surprising the kiddos with breakfast with Santa? Grant's Farm's Christmas celebration runs from late November through late December. (The drive-thru Christmas lights display in St. Louis, Missouri, however, only runs through mid-December.)
Christmas Towns In Missouri
Because the Christmas season is usually quite short compared to all there is to do, we have to carefully plan our calendars, so we don't miss out on any of the many Christmas events and activities in Missouri. If you have a free day or even a weekend, plan a getaway to one of these enchanting Christmas towns in Missouri, where you'll feel as though you've stepped back through the pages of time. (You'll even find some of the best free things to do in Missouri in winter in these picturesque towns.)
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7. Hannibal
Location: Hannibal
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: $2 admission to the Festival of Trees
Journey back through time with a Christmastime visit to <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/missouri/old-fashioned-christmas-town-mo/" target="_blank">Hannibal. The charming small town in Missouri hosts the Victorian Festival of Christmas in Historic Downtown Hannibal, an epic holiday celebration that runs the first three weekends of December. (Events are also held on Small Business Saturday at the end of November.) Festivities include living windows, carriage rides, and a Festival of Trees. Earmark some time, too, to explore the historic downtown, where you can do a bit of Christmas shopping and indulge in a delicious meal.
8. Branson
Branson, Missouri USA December 4, 1993: Christmas decorations adorn the shoreline by the Old Highway 65 Bridge in Branson, Missouri.
Location: Branson
Popularity: Can get very busy, depending on the attraction
Price: Varies
With its jam-packed schedule of activities and events, Branson just might deserve the title of the Christmas Capital of Missouri. Visit Silver Dollar City for its epic Old Time Christmas celebration (and more than 6.5 million lights). Follow one of the town's drive-thru light displays, like Shepherd of the Hills' Trail of Lights. Go Christmas shopping in the historic downtown, or ride the Polar Express with Santa (and the Branson Scenic Railway).
9. Independence
Location: Independence
Popularity: Can get busy during the holidays
Price: Varies, depending on activity. Admission to Vaile Mansion ranges from $5-$10.
Celebrate the Christmas season with a visit to the bustling town of Independence. Get into the holiday spirit with a tour of Vaile Mansion, which gets all decked out for the Christmas season. Tours are offered from late November through the end of December. Put on your hiking shoes for the Annual Winter Solstice Torch Lit Hike in early December, and walk around town to admire the Christmas decorations.
Outdoor Activities
Some of the best Missouri winter activities offer us the chance to enjoy the fresh air and the freshly fallen snow (if we're lucky). Missouri boasts some of the best sledding hills - can you say Art Hill at Forest Park in St. Louis - and epic snow tubing parks that will transform those cold and snowy days in Missouri into action-packed adventures. Here are just a few of the best family things to do in Missouri in winter.
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10. Steinberg Ice Skating Rink
Leg of woman wearing ice skates standing on an ice rink
Billed as the largest ice skating rink in the Midwest with 27,600 square feet, <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/experiences/missouri/largest-ice-skating-rink-mo/" target="_blank">Steinberg Ice Skating Rink is the place to go for a day of fun gliding around the ice. The rink offers all-day skating. Take a break to warm up near the firepit, and recharge with a hot drink and a snack. Skating lessons are also available. The rink is generally open seasonally from mid-November through early March. (From May through October, the rink offers roller skating.)
11. Summit Rink
Location: Lee’s Summit
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: $11/$8 for Lee's Summit residents; skate rental $3
Glide around the rink at Summit Ice. The 8,000-square-foot outdoor skating rink also features fire pits and a patio with plenty of seating. When you need a breather, grab a bite to eat from the concession stand and relax on the patio. It's certainly one of the best cheap things to do in Missouri in winter. Summit Ice generally opens in mid-November.
12. Hidden Valley Ski Resort
Location: Eureka
Popularity: Two-hour sessions are offered to prevent overcrowding.
Price: Tickets are not yet on sale for the season.
Bundle up for one of the best family things to do in Missouri in winter when you go snow tubing at<a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/stays/missouri/longest-snow-tubing-run-mo/" target="_blank">Polar Plunge Tubing Park at Hidden Valley Ski Resort. Tickets are sold in two-hour sessions, so you can zip down the hill as many times as you want. Catch your breath as the conveyor belt takes you back to the top to do it all over again. If you need more of a break, warm up by one of the roaring fire pits.
13. Snow Creek Ski Area
Location: Weston
Popularity: Extremely popular. Buy tickets in advance as they often sell out on the weekends and holidays.
Price: Tickets are not yet on sale for the season.
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Get ready for a day of fast-paced fun at Snow Creek, where you can go snow tubing or skiing. Timed tickets can be purchased in advance for your rides down the 700-foot hill. Go up the conveyor belt, and go back down again...and again. Skiing is also popular at this winter park. The season typically begins in mid-December.
Winter Getaways
While most people count down the days until their summer vacations, there's something so enchanting and tranquil about a winter getaway. Escaping to a cozy cabin or a lively resort the whole family will love adds an extra bit of magic to the season. Here are some of the best winter getaways in Missouri.
14. River of Life Farm
Location: Dora
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: Starting at $259
For one of the most romantic things to do in Missouri in winter, plan a getaway to River of Life Farm, where you can stay cozy in one of its treehouses or cabins. The Missouri resort offers a variety of accommodations for two to six guests. When you're not staying warm in your home-away-from-home, explore the farm on one of the snow-dusted hiking trails, or go stargazing. (River of Life Farm boasts some of the best stargazing in Missouri.)
15. Fair Winds Cabin Resort
Location: Cherryville
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: Starting at $159
Check into a charming cabin for a winter getaway at Fair Winds Cabin Resort. All cabins promise luxury with some featuring a fireplace or a Jacuzzi. If it's not too cold, sit on the rocking chair on the front porch and watch the snowfall.
16. Grand Country Resort
Location: Branson
Popularity: Popular
Price: Rates start at around $200 per night
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Treat the whole family to a blast of summer in the middle of winter with a visit to Grand Country Resort in Branson. While the snow's falling outside, stand under a tipping bucket or float in the crystal-clear pool. The resort offers a full menu of family-friendly amenities, including bowling, a movie theater, laser tag, and indoor go-karts. Dig into some of the best food in Branson, too, at this resort that has a buffet, a pizza joint, and a restaurant that grills all of the favorites, including burgers.
What are your favorite things to do in Missouri in winter? Let us know in the comments! On the hunt for more free things to do in Missouri in winter? How about going on a refreshing winter hike? Check out the best winter hikes in Missouri then, for more hikes, stop by AllTrails.
