And the setting is perfect for a little Halloween fright. Located four miles East of Johnstown, PA in Mineral Point (click here for a map to the Staple Bend Tunnel), this landmark is generally a considered a lovely destination point for a hike or bicycle ride through our local woodland. But anyone that’s been there at the end of the day, after the shadows have grown long, can attest that it doesn’t take much of an imagination to get you jumping at every little sound—making it ideal for an evening of spectral conversations.

Ghost tours will begin hourly from 6:00PM until 9:00PM with a cost of $2.00 per person. Reservations should be made by calling (814) 886-6150. You are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour and attendees will be bused from the Staple Bend Tunnel parking area back to the tunnel for the performance.

Additional details are available on the Allegheny Portage Railroad “Schedule of Events“.

Featuring Dillweed’s Parlor Players performing selections from the works of Poe throughout the rooms of the bed and breakfast, the event is a perfect way to enjoy the eerie autumn season with class. Desserts and coffee are offered to start off the evening from 7:00 to 8:00PM, with performances running from 8:00 to 10:00PM.

“In addition to some of Poe’s most notable works, this year’s event will feature another classic horror story written by Robert Louis Stevenson, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” said Cindy Gilmore, Co-owner of the Dillweed Bed and Breakfast.

The Dillweed B&B, located in Dilltown, PA, just across from the beginning of the Ghost Town Trail, is a turn-of-the-century home built by the Dill family. The establishment features four guest rooms and also hosts private parties, teas, and meetings. The bed and breakfast also houses Dillweed’s Trailside Shop.

Admission is $16 per adult and seating is very limited, so be sure to make your reservations soon. You can do so by calling the Dillweed Bed and Breakfast at (814) 446-6465.

More information is available on the Dillweed Bed and Breakfast website’s Event Page.

Dillweed Bed & Breakfast is just ten miles from downtown Johnstown, located on Route 403, one mile North of US Route 22, in the village of Dilltown. Click here for a map to the Dillweed Bed & Breakfast.

The leaves turn and the temperature drops and skulls, ghosts and goblins begin popping up in the unlikeliest of places. Another October draws to a close and, just like everywhere, Johnstowners are looking for a good, friendly scare. Fortunately, opportunities for just such entertainment are all around the Johnstown, PA area.

Each year, on the final four days of October, Frightmare Studios presents a haunted house that is sure to rank as one of the top Halloween experiences for all of their visitors.

Now in its 17th year, the Frightmare Haunted House has evolved from an elaborate yard display into a dark labyrinth of eerie scenes and macabre surprises. A dedicated team of actors apply their talents to create a delightfully frightening experience for their guests.

“Again this year there’s a lot of buzz about it,” says John Billick, who heads up the annual effort. “We always have a large number that come back year after year.”

The haunted house is open to visitors of all ages, with the intensity tailored to the age of the touring group. Still, parents with young children are encouraged to inform the gate staff that they would like the actors to dial things down to ensure the trip through the black corridors is the appropriate level for their party.

Located at 210 Arch Street, Johnstown, PA (click here for a map) in Upper Yoder Township (two blocks away from the Goucher Street Giant Eagle), the Frightmare Haunted House is open to the public from 7:30PM until approximately 11:00PM on October 28th, 29th, 30th and 31st. Guests should allow for 5-10 minutes to experience the exhibit.

While there isn’t a set admission fee, a suggested donation of $5 is requested. According to Mr. Billick, “the $5 isn’t mandatory, but it really goes a long way towards helping with the next year’s expenses”.

The haunted house is located in a residential neighborhood, which presents its own challenges. Parking is quite limited, so visitors may need to find a place to park and then walk to the exhibit. There is a steep flight of stairs leading to the exhibit that somewhat limits accessibility. It’s also important to show the neighbors respect (avoid turning around in residents’ driveways, limiting noise, etc.). And how do the neighbors feel about all of this? “They love it,” says Mr. Billick. “They think it’s a great thing for the kids.”

Learn more about the Frightmare Studios by visiting www.frightmarestudios.com or www.myspace.com/frightmare-studios.

Visit the Do Johnstown “Halloween” Flickr set for a sneak peek of the display.