Unearth The Voyage
Macon, Georgia transforms into a spooky playground every October, blending Southern charm with supernatural thrills. From floating down the river in witch costumes to exploring century-old haunted mansions, this mid-Georgia gem offers something for every Halloween lover. Whether you’re a ghost story enthusiast or just looking for a memorable autumn adventure, Macon delivers chills, history, and plenty of fun all weekend long.
1. Paddle the Ocmulgee on the Witches Float
Paddling down a peaceful river surrounded by witches, warlocks, and wizards all in full costume is exactly what happens each October when Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions hosts Macon’s famous costumed river float. The 2025 event launches from Amerson River Park on October 26, giving you a mellow, magical journey through Georgia’s natural beauty.
Travel + Leisure magazine recently named Macon one of America’s top Halloween destinations, spotlighting this unique float. Shuttles take you to the launch point, so all you need to bring is your best pointy hat and sense of adventure. Check Visit Macon’s event page before heading out to confirm timing and weather updates.
2. Walk the Macon Macabre Downtown Ghost Tour
True crime meets ghostly folklore on this 1.5-hour walking adventure through Macon’s lively downtown. Your guide shares spine-tingling tales as you stroll past bars, theaters, and shadowy alleyways where the past refuses to stay buried. The tour kicks off near The Rose Room on 2nd Street and wraps up at Bohemian Den.
October weekends see expanded tour schedules, including Halloween night itself. You’ll hear stories that blend historical fact with eerie legend, making every corner feel a little more haunted. Comfortable shoes are a must—downtown’s cobblestones and sidewalks become part of the spooky atmosphere as darkness falls around you.
3. Haunts & History on the Hill with Hay House
Called the “Palace of the South,” Hay House is a National Historic Landmark that commands attention from its hilltop perch. Locals whisper that this neighborhood is among Macon’s most haunted, and the seasonal “Haunts & History on the Hill” tour explores exactly why. Starting on the mansion’s grand lawn, guides lead you through ghostly folklore tied to nearby estates.
Architectural Digest featured Hay House among the “Most Beautiful Haunted Destinations,” and it’s easy to see why. The Georgia Trust occasionally offers after-dark experiences inside, adding extra chills to your visit. Even if you’re skeptical about spirits, the architecture alone is worth the trip.
4. Take a Classic Macon Ghost Tour with US Ghost Adventures
For theatrical storytelling with a vintage lantern glow, US Ghost Adventures delivers nightly tours packed with drama and history. Groups gather outside The Piedmont Grand Opera House before winding through downtown’s most haunted landmarks, including the legendary Rose Hill Cemetery. Your guide brings each tale to life with flair.
These tours run year-round but take on extra magic during October when the autumn air adds natural atmosphere. You’ll hear about Civil War tragedies, unexplained sightings, and mysterious happenings that still puzzle locals today. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a good ghost story delivered with style and historical detail.
5. Explore Rose Hill Cemetery
Established way back in 1840, Rose Hill Cemetery holds generations of Macon’s history beneath its moss-draped oaks. Walking among the weathered headstones feels like stepping into another era, and the place carries a famously eerie reputation. Around Halloween, special maps and guided tours help visitors connect names on markers with the fascinating stories behind them.
Local partners sometimes offer kiosks or expanded programming during October, so check current listings before planning your visit. Whether you come for the ghost lore or the historical significance, Rose Hill rewards curious explorers. Daytime visits are peaceful and beautiful; after-dark events add an extra layer of spooky excitement.
6. Step Inside the Cannonball House
A Civil War cannonball actually struck this beautiful antebellum home, and it’s been turning heads ever since. Now a museum, the Cannonball House appears on nearly every haunted history tour in Macon for good reason. Visitors and guides alike report odd footsteps echoing through empty rooms and shadow figures moving where no one stands.
Even if you don’t experience anything supernatural, the home offers a photogenic glimpse into Macon’s past. Period furnishings and wartime artifacts tell the story of families who lived through incredible turmoil. It’s a must-see for history buffs and ghost hunters alike, blending educational value with spine-tingling possibilities.
7. Catch Rocky Horror at the Grand Opera House
Every October 31st, Macon’s gorgeous Grand Opera House comes alive with fishnet stockings, rice-throwing, and callbacks as fans celebrate The Rocky Horror Picture Show. This late-night tradition has become a beloved Halloween ritual, packing the historic theater with costumed crowds ready for raucous participation. The building itself carries plenty of ghost stories, adding extra atmosphere.
First-timers should know this isn’t a quiet movie screening—audience participation is encouraged and expected. Veterans bring props and shout classic lines, creating an unforgettable interactive experience. It’s campy, loud, and absolutely perfect for anyone wanting to end Halloween night with pure theatrical joy in a hauntingly beautiful venue.
8. New Seasonal Spooks: Ghost-Hunting Weekends & Mansion Stays
Recent years have brought exciting limited-run experiences for serious ghost enthusiasts. Burke Mansion has hosted special packages combining overnight stays with guided paranormal investigations and local ghost tours. These pop-up events sell out quickly, offering hands-on exploration with actual investigation equipment.
If you’re planning a 2025 Halloween visit, scan local event calendars early for similar opportunities. These experiences go beyond standard tours, letting you actively search for evidence of the supernatural. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, spending a night in a reportedly haunted mansion with experienced guides creates unforgettable memories and maybe even a few unexplained photos.
9. DIY the Ocmulgee with Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions
Adventure seekers can create their own spooky river experience any time during the Halloween season by renting equipment from Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions. Families and friend groups enjoy the freedom to paddle at their own pace, exploring the peaceful waterways that wind through Macon’s natural landscape.
Bring along Halloween decorations for your kayak or canoe to add festive flair to your journey. The calm waters make this activity perfect for beginners, while experienced paddlers appreciate the scenic beauty and wildlife sightings along the route.
Pack snacks, wear your costume if you dare, and spend a few hours disconnecting from everyday life while connecting with nature. This flexible option lets you design your perfect autumn river adventure.
10. Round Out Your Trip with Visit Macon’s Spooky Picks
Visit Macon’s curated list of seasonal attractions helps travelers discover hidden gems beyond the most popular haunted spots. Local experts have assembled recommendations that showcase the city’s rich supernatural history and Halloween spirit throughout various neighborhoods.
From lesser-known historic sites with eerie backstories to seasonal pop-up events and themed dining experiences, these picks offer something different from typical tourist destinations. The guide includes family-friendly options alongside more intense experiences for thrill-seekers.
Check their website or visitor center for updated recommendations, special event schedules, and insider tips that locals use to celebrate the spooky season. This resource ensures you won’t miss any hidden Halloween treasures during your Macon adventure.
