Curator’s statement
Visiting San Antonio and Austin during the spooky season is a special treat, combining rich history with eerie charm. San Antonio boasts legendary haunted sites and vibrant Dia de los Muertos celebrations that infuse a colorful and supernatural dimension to the season. Austin, typically known for its live music scene, takes on an intriguing aura with ghostly tours and quirky spooky events that showcase the city's eerie side. Both cities offer a unique blend of history, culture, and spine-tingling experiences, making them the perfect destinations for a thrilling and memorable spooky season getaway.
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Where to stay
The Driskill
A traditional stay in the heart of downtown and home to some of Austin Film Festival events. A historic setting with timeless charm within walking distance of the foodie scene, nightlife and historic attractions like the Austin Capitol.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Austin Motel
A wallet-friendly South Congress go-to for kitsch and colorful rooms, a sweet boutique and fun pool scene.
Fora Perks
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$25 food / beverage credit.
Carpenter Hotel
Just 12 minutes from Shoal Beach, this classic Austin property features a mid-century-styled coffee shop and a pool.
Fora Perks
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Food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Lakeside Austin retreat with a saltwater pool, lawn games, miles of lakeside trails and spacious rooms.
Fora Perks
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When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Hotel Emma
A destination-style sleep for foodies and culture lovers at the north end of downtown San Antonio.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort And Spa
Secluded, family-centric resort conveniently located near SeaWorld.
Fora Perks
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Hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk
A hip boutique hotel with exquisite cuisine, a popular rooftop lounge, a lively pool deck and sleek rooms, all amidst San Antonio's bustling art scene.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
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Breakfast daily.
Mokara Hotel & Spa
Located in the heart of a vibrant city, this elegant hotel offers a serene oasis of relaxation. With its sophisticated accommodations, impeccable service and a range of spa and wellness amenities, The Mokara Hotel and Spa invites guests to unwind, rejuvenate, and escape from the stresses of everyday life. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful sanctuary, this boutique hotel provides a tranquil haven where you can pamper yourself and indulge in the ultimate comfort and tranquility.
Unlock perks by contacting Ashley to book your trip.
Things to do in San Antonio & Austin
Austin Ghost Tours
Haunted Austin Walking History Tour
Embark on a journey through Austin's eerie past on this haunted history tour of Texas's capital city. Led by an acclaimed storyteller, you'll join a small group to explore the supernatural secrets hidden in the city's historical nooks and creepy crannies, including a visit to the renowned Driskill Hotel. Immerse yourself in the ghostly tales of Austin's haunted history and discover the lesser-known corners of Texas's capital city. This spine-tingling tour will have you captivated from start to finish.
Austin Famous Ghost and Bat Segway Tour
Uncover an alternative Austin with a 2.5-hour Segway tour that delves into the realms of bats and ghosts. Running from March to October, this nighttime adventure across downtown Austin explores haunted hotels, iconic structures, and the world's most extensive urban bat colony. Experience the sights of the Texas State Capitol Building, Lady Bird Lake, Austin Convention Center, the vibrant 6th Street Entertainment district, Moonlight Towers, and much more.
Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour
Immerse yourself in the legends of Austin's Old West and the mysteries of unexplained occurrences while also discovering its most charming watering holes on this unique Old West ghost tour and pub crawl. As the sun sets, gather in central Austin to meet your guide and embark on this thrilling adventure. You'll journey through multiple bars and historic landmarks during the tour, each stop offering a mix of storytelling and opportunities to enjoy a refreshing drink.
Austin Murder Walk
Back in 1885, the enigmatic figure of the "Midnight Assassin" haunted the city of Austin, earning the chilling distinction of America's first serial killer. To this day, his true identity remains a perplexing mystery. Join our guided evening walking tour to delve into the historical tapestry of Austin, where you'll traverse iconic locales such as West 6th Street, Guy Town, and the Warehouse District. Along the way, we'll pause for a drink at the illustrious Driskill Hotel while unraveling the chilling tale of his crimes.
San Antonio Ghost Tours
The Haunted Ghost Bus Tour in San Antonio
Experience the spine-tingling world of San Antonio with this ghost-themed bus tour. Guided by a mysterious and otherworldly character who claims a connection to the afterlife, embark on a bone-chilling journey through the city's renowned haunted locations. Explore the eerie history of the Menger Hotel, the remnants of the old Red Light District, the former Bexar County Jail, a historic cemetery, and an array of other ghostly sites that are sure to send shivers down your spine.
San Antonio Haunted History Ghost Tour
The winding streets of San Antonio have witnessed a plethora of peculiar and uncanny events. Join us on the San Antonio ghost tour and delve into the eerie, otherworldly stories of Texas's most notorious happenings. Your journey commences and concludes at the iconic Alamo, where your guides, adorned in historic attire and bearing lanterns, await your arrival. As you stroll through the historic Old Town, immerse yourself in the city's captivating past, brought vividly to life by our knowledgeable and passionate guides.
San Antonio Segway Ghost Tour
Embark on an eerie adventure through San Antonio's enigmatic past with an evening haunted history tour on a Segway. Glide effortlessly on this self-balancing electric scooter to the city's most storied and purportedly haunted sites. Your guide will regale you with tales of infamous gun-slingers, spectral apparitions of the Alamo, and the legends surrounding ancient Indian burial grounds. This spine-tingling journey offers a delightfully chilling way to spend your evening, fully immersed in the captivating lore of Texas.
Spooky Places to eat & drink in Austin
Colonial Room Restaurant at Menger Hotel
The Menger Hotel is renowned for its status as one of the most haunted destinations in Texas, hosting a bustling community of 32 entities that span from the chambermaid Sallie White to Captain Richard King, after whom the illustrious King Ranch is named. While rumors of paranormal activity seem to concentrate notably in the suites and downstairs restrooms, we prefer to focus our attention on the delectable Sunday brunch buffet, relishing generous helpings of lamb shanks.
Market on Houston at the Gunter Hotel
This upscale establishment, adorned with modern decor and abundant lighting, defies the traditional image of a haunt for the supernatural. Nevertheless, the spirited presence of two 1920s flappers, affectionately named Ingrid and Peggy, is rumored to wander its halls, engaged in perpetual arguments. The one thing that might momentarily unite these spectral adversaries is the tempting Market on Houston menu, featuring farm-to-table delicacies such as buttermilk-brined fried chicken and wild mushroom risotto.
Oro Restaurant and Bar at the Emily Morgan Hotel
With a longstanding reputation for hosting spectral apparitions and enigmatic elevator journeys, this hotel has a haunting history. Back in the early 1900s, it served as a medical facility, housing a psychiatric ward and even a morgue. Adding to the eerie ambiance is the building's Gothic Revival architecture, adorned with an array of ominous gargoyles. However, there's nothing remotely frightening about the menu. During a recent visit, the standout dish was a delightful chorizo-crusted Chilean sea bass accompanied by Texas sweet corn pudding and a delectable charred tomatillo salsa.
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Travel Advisor
Ashley Jordan
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Texas.