The skeletons are out of the closet and onto the stoops, which can only mean one thing: It’s spooky season in Lower Manhattan, and there’s plenty to do. This year, you can find a Halloween event for every level of fright fan, from jump scares and haunted taverns, to pumpkin fests and family friendly movies. We’ve rounded up 14 of the best options, separated by fear factor, so you don’t risk losing your own skeleton in terror.
Scaredy cats (and kids)
Neighborhood trick or treating, Seaport
The Seaport is inviting the costumed kiddies over for trick or treating on its cobblestoned, pedestrian-friendly streets on October 31, Participating businesses include the Seaport Museum, McNally Jackson, Lawn Club and many many more.
Halloween Hunt, Brookfield Place
This family friendly scavenger hunt runs October 25 to November 2 and features “fa-BOO-lous” prizes. Get a map from the concierge at 230 Vesey St. and start searching for clues.
Pumpkin Arch, Heineken Riverdeck, Pier 17
It really is quite a gourd view at Pier 17’s Pumpkin Arch, where hundreds of pumpkins and other fall foliage combine to create a giant arch framing the riverfront for a perfect photo opp. Get there at golden hour to capture the glittering magic of the city framed for autumn, or come after dark to see the twinkling lights in the arch itself. The arch is on view from October 22 to November 17.
Pumpkin Point, Governors Island
Governors Island will have its own pumpkin patch again this year, running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 25 and 26.
A little tingle in the spine
Haunted races, Governors Island
Practice running away from slashers at these upcoming races from NYC Runs, which will tour around the beautiful (and slightly spooky) island. The 10K will be held on October 25 and the 5K on October 26.
Ryan McGuire’s Halloween Party, 28 Cliff St.
Get your costume ready for Ryan McGuire’s late-night party on Halloween night, featuring a DJ, drink specials and a prize for best costume.
Cobble Fish Halloween Party, 89 South St. at Pier 16
Any costume gets you a free shot at Cobble Fish’s Halloween night party, which will also feature a DJ, $5 beers and, as always, waterfront views.
Halloween Bar Fest, Stone Street
You get to do your best undead crawl to 10 bars and “infinite haunts” at Stone Street’s revived Halloween bar fest on November 1. One wristband gets you access to all 10 bars, with drink specials, haunted beats and more.
Haunting Under the Stars, Highwater Rooftop, 120 Water St.
Don’t let a fear of heights keep you from Highwater Rooftop’s monthlong celebration, 25 floors on top of the Indigo Hotel. The immersive event pairs skyline views with seasonal cocktails, Halloween-themed bites and professional set design. The event features games and performers — some who are looking to scare you.
SHRIEK!!
Sinister Secrets of the Seaport, South Street Seaport Museum, 2 Fulton St.
Take a 90-minute tour of the Seaport’s many bits of scandalous and sinister history that lurk among its cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Scream-inducing scenes, Alamo Drafthouse, 28 Liberty St.
The Lower Manhattan Alamo Drafthouse is naturally packed with options throughout the month, screening cult classics (“Rocky Horror Picture Show”), horror classics (“Fright Night”) and family friendly frights (“Corpse Bride”).
Boo Bash, Continental Sports Lounge, 82 Beaver St.
Make Halloween night a night of John Wick-inspired “cinematic mischief” at the Continental Sports Lounge, located inside the iconic building that stood in for the Continental in the John Wick franchise. Costumes are required for this party that promises to be “high-energy, seductive and just a little dangerous.”
Living History After Dark, Fraunces Tavern, 54 Pearl St.
The Fraunches Tavern is considered one of the city’s most-haunted locations; which makes it a perfect place to have a candlelit, after-dark adventure. On Mischief Night (October 30), head to the Tavern to meet passionate costumed interpreters, discover rare artifacts and immerse yourself in spooky tales of Lower Manhattan’s long history.
Haunted History scavenger hunt, meet at 54 Pearl St.
The Haunted History Hunt from the New York Social Network encourages you to make new friends while learning about the haunted history of Lower Manhattan. You’ll look for clues from Bowling Green to City Hall, visiting the site of graveyards and grizzly deeds. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll make a connection or two — living or otherwise.
photo: iStock