Introduction
Horror Hall (West Nanticoke, PA) is a tradition, a staple in the community that exceeds expectations for what many consider a local-charity haunt, and with some operational changes can easily establish itself as a premier attraction. The scenes, performances for the most part and length/design of this classical haunted attraction are unique, a throwback to the boardwalk style funhouses of years past and is the perfect foundation of a professional haunted house that can be one of the best of its kind. While we miss some of the classic scenes of year’s past, such as an effective “night of the living dead” movie theater scene which still to this day is one of the more unique sets that we hope the attraction brings back. However, Horror Hall has added several new rooms and sets this season, such as a brand new “mental ward/asylum” wing, and hospital of horrors. Classic rooms such as the “swamp” and hall of saws return and really it is always a staple attraction and almost tradition to visit Horror Hall.
Horror Hall is a legendary attraction in Northeast Pennsylvania. Wait times can be lengthy due to a vintage waiting system in which guests are seated then escorted to the attraction. While waiting, we watched the familiar pre-show entertainment featuring Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” and a unique animatronic prop read an introduction and presented a storyline (very impressive special effects with this opening “talking” prop!). The attraction escorts guests into the attraction in small groups as guests are guided by flashlight upstairs into the main haunt, a staircase featuring psychedelic artwork augmented by “black light effects,” building anticipation for one’s entry into the actual attraction.
Horror Hall is designed in a maze-like manner, featuring dark corridors filled with various scare actors who engage in various startle/drop scares. Each passage is an adventure utilizes lighting effects and fog to distract guests. Auditory and visual distractions allow actors to generate “jump” scares, and a few more monsters would make the experience even more fulfilling. The set designs found at Horror Hall are classic; we love several of the classic scenes such as “Swamp Thing,” “Choose Your Fate (which features multiple interactive rooms and surprises),” “Prison Breakout,” and a creative fantastical-like trip through a chilling graveyard featuring one of the more impressive animatronics of the show.
In many respects, the attraction was ahead of its time, as many haunts are beginning to incorporate interactive scenes. Horror Hall was one of the first to do so, with collapsing rooms, bridges, and the infamous room of “saws” (which sadly was not totally functioning on our visit, but we could hear the sound of cutting). Horror Hall’s use of theatrical fog, shockingly incredible soundtrack, and blinding lights effectively disorientate guests as they make their way through a complicated, lengthy maze allowing for jump and startle scares. So many scenes are unique to this attraction (not found in larger haunts); they have become iconic, the “hall of saws,” heavy metal-inspired “hit by a truck,” scene and the already mentioned visit to a “Hall of Fame” for classic horror villains are yearly favorites. We applaud Horror Hall to construct and maintain an old-school funhouse style haunt that can continue to buck industry trends and present an enjoyable show that is one of the last of its kind.
Final Word
Horror Hall is an iconic Northeast, PA funhouse style attraction that has not only withstood the test of time but is one of the most unique and an attraction that is a throwback to the boardwalk-style funhouses of the 1980s and 90s. Featuring numerous themes, hallways of darkness, Halloween-inspired soundtracks, and just an atmosphere of seasonal fun, Horror Hall is a generational gem. With a few upgrades/revisions, some more modern scare acting, and perhaps a revised “line management” system can really stand out as a premier horror event. There is a great deal of potential for even further evolution and horror-infused entertainment that modernizes yet keeps the vintage style and genuine creepiness that has made a Horror Hall such a regional staple and should be visited by haunt fans. Featuring numerous themes, hallways of darkness, Halloween-inspired soundtracks, and just an atmosphere of seasonal fun, Horror Hall is a generational gem. With a few upgrades/revisions, some more modern scare acting, and perhaps a revised “line management” system can really stand out as a premier horror event
An iconic, old-school funhouse of fun and horror, Horror Hall is a legendary regional attraction that haunt and horror fans across the country would appreciate. A throwback to an era of haunting that focuses on surprise, fun, and fear, the commitment to quality and entertainment provided by the volunteer staff of this attraction is evident. We hope Horror Hall continues its legacy of terror for generations to come!
Location:
Website: http://www.horrrorhall.com
Strengths
- Attraction Design
- Old School Funhouse Feel
- Innovative Themes
- Length of Attraction
Room for Improvement
- Scene Upgrades can use a larger budget
- Operations-Line Management, Pacing
- Additional Scare Actors and Costume Design