Anoka, Minnesota, Is Called the ‘Halloween Capital of the World’ — How to Visit

Anoka, Minnesota, could easily get lost in the crowded tourism market. However, the town of just about 18,000 people has a secret. It’s actually the “Halloween Capital of the World.”

How did this tiny town along the scenic Rum River, approximately 30 minutes north of Minneapolis, earn such an accolade? For starters, it’s the first place in the U.S. to host an official Halloween celebration — and it’s been holding spooky events ever since. 

“Anoka has a long tradition as the ‘Halloween Capital of the World,’ dating back to 1920. With three parades and numerous events throughout the month of October, there’s something for everyone,” Peter Turok, president of Anoka’s Chamber of Commerce, shared with Travel + Leisure. 

As Karen George, an Anoka native and a member of the Chamber of Commerce, added, travelers don’t need to attend a specific event to get into the spirit here. 

“The historic downtown is decorated with our signature Halloween banners, and the local businesses have Halloween displays,” she shared.  

From paranormal ghost tours to 5k races, there really is something for all travelers in Anoka. But if you need a little more inspiration and guidance, here’s where George and Turok suggest you go to make the most of your Halloween holiday. 

What to Do in Anoka for Halloween

Watch the Anoka Halloween parade.

Anoka’s Grande Day Parade is a Halloween season highlight. Visitors line the streets to see the creative floats and costumed performers put on a show to remember. Just be sure to arrive early to snag a prime viewing spot. And if you miss this one, don’t worry — there are two other parades to check out. “The three parades are all great — from the Light Up the Night Parade to the Big Parade of Little People, and the biggest of all, the Grande Day Parade,” Turok explained. 

Join the run.

Feeling sporty? Sign up for the Gray Ghost Run, an Anoka tradition since 1985. Participants can pick between a one-mile walk or a 5k race. And yes, of course, you can (and should) run in costume. Again, sign up early, as this race tends to sell out quickly. 

Feel a chill on an Anoka ghost tour.

Tag along with the Anoka County Historical Society for a ghost tour through some of the town’s most haunted spots. As for what to expect from the walk, “There’s a house where the rocking chair rocks with no one sitting in it. A business in town has employees who won’t enter parts of the building because of the woman seen only in a mirror,” the Historical Society explained.

Where to Stay in Anoka

Ticknor Hill Bed & Breakfast

This historic Victorian mansion, built in 1867, has been lovingly turned into a bed-and-breakfast. Even better, it’s close to the town’s main attractions, including the Halloween festivities, so you can pop in and out as you wish. 

Where to Eat in Anoka

The Mad Hatter

Enjoy a bit of whimsy on your trip to Anoka by booking an afternoon tea at The Mad Hatter. The restaurant offers several high tea experiences, including its Queen of Hearts service that includes tea, an appetizer, a scones course, a savories course, and a dessert trio. There’s also a Children’s Tea service ideal for those traveling with younger kids. 

Serum’s Good Time Emporium

Get a hearty Midwest bite at Serum’s Good Time Emporium, a town staple since 1929. The restaurant is famous for its wings and lively bar scene, all housed inside a historic building, making it even more of a must-see.

MaGillycuddy’s

Get quick and easy service at MaGillycuddy’s, another local favorite in ANoka. The low-key eatery is beloved for its comfort food, particularly its burgers. Plus, it regularly hosts karaoke events, so start practicing your favorite tune. 

Billy’s Bar & Grill

For both great food and some spooky fun, head to Billy’s Bar & Grill. The bar is housed in a building dating back to the 1800s and has a reputation for being haunted by former workers. Despite a few ghosts, Billy’s has remained a popular spot, with pizzas and burgers being the go-to items on the menu. 

When to Visit Anoka

The best time to visit Anoka is throughout the month of October, when the town embraces its Halloween heritage. The crisp autumn air and vibrant fall colors make for an ideal backdrop to all the Halloween-related activities (especially if you’re joining the 5k race). 

“As for the best time to visit, there are events all month long, but if I had to pick one day, it would be the last Saturday in October as that’s the Grande Day Parade,” Turok shared. However, if Halloween isn’t your thing, Anoka is still worthy of a visit during the other seasons. As Turok explained, “Anoka is one of the oldest cities in Minnesota, and with its unique history, it’s small-town America at its best. It’s worth a stroll in the downtown area, with its unique stores and restaurants, all placed along the scenic Rum River.” 

How to Get Around Anoka

By Car: If you plan to visit Anoka, it’s best — and most convenient — if you have your own four wheels. Having a car allows you to explore the town more readily and see the surrounding area along the Rum River. And luckily, there’s ample parking downtown.

By Public Transport: If you don’t want to rent a car there’s a local bus service, though it may not run as frequently as in larger cities.

How to Get to Anoka

By Plane: The nearest major airport to Anoka is Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, about a one-hour drive from the center of town. From here, you can rent a car from major companies like Hertz and Enterprise to get you the rest of the way. 

By Car: Anoka is easily accessible via U.S. Route 10 and Minnesota State Highway 47. It’s about a 40-minute drive northwest of downtown Minneapolis, so it’s an easy day trip or long weekend destination. 

By Train: Want to skip the car? Just book a ticket on the Northstar commuter rail, which provides regular service from Minneapolis to Anoka, with a journey time of about 30 minutes (roughly the same as driving, minus the hassle). The Anoka station is also centrally located, making it easy to explore the town sans vehicle.