Television personality and AZfoothills.com columnist Nadine Toren is scouring the area, finding savvy Valley features, bringing readers “on the scene.” Every day she’ll introduce you to celebrities, athletes, and give you an inside look into local events and hot spots. She'll touch on topical issues, and keep AZ fans posted on all the big talkers around town.
Dare to be scared? Well, if you're looking for a major fear-fest, head to these Valley hot-spots...rumor is, they're haunted...
Looking for a little fright this Halloween weekend? Well, the Valley has a handful of Halloween spooks, perfect for anyone who dares to be scared.According to AAA Arizona, our state is notorious for historically haunted hotels and paranormal activity. While it’s not guaranteed you’ll see a glimpse of the supernatural, chances are, fear seekers will get their fair share of the chills.
Personally, I’m one of those people who DON’T like to be scared, but if you’re the contrary, check into The Copper Queen—Arizona’s oldest continuously running hotel. It opened its Bisbee doors in 1901, and is allegedly home to three resident ghosts. Apparently, the first is an old man with a beard, cape, and top hat. (He’s known to smell of cigar on the fourth floor.) The second (and most famous) ghost is Julia Lowell; she often presents herself to male guests on the second and third floor. And the final ghost is a young boy said to have drowned in the San Pedro River. You might just hear him giggle around the premise. Rates start at $89 a night…
But if you beware the Bisbee hotel, head to The Gasden, established in 1907. It’s located in the border-town of Douglas, and it’s actually quite rich in magnificent architecture. It’s known for Pancho Villa—a wild spirit sometimes seen riding his horse up the stairs, headless. You can also often find Pancho chipping away at the seventh step, or hiding out in The Gasden’s basement. Rates start at $60 a night…
And finally, Hotel San Carlos, which ranked #3 on Horror.com’s “America’s Top 10 Haunted Hotels” list. The AAA Three Diamond property opened in 1928, and is known for many paranormal hot-spots. You can stay at the hotel for $109 a night, or simply walk your way through the haunted hub. Check out the Ghosts of Phoenix Tours for a guided explanation of the hotel’s history and legends.
However, if you’re like me and prefer to skip the spooks all together, AAA Diamond properties are hosting a bunch of Halloween happenings.
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is having its fourth annual Nightmare on Princess Drive—famous for its black carpet, costume contest, and Monster Mash ball. It’s on Saturday, October 29th at the resort’s Stone Rose Lounge.
You can also check out Hotel Valley Ho for its third annual Haunted Hotel Ball on Saturday, October 29th. Ghosts and goblins can dance the night away at this ghoulish gala, and you can even win $1,000 if you sport the best costume. Space is limited, and tickets cost $30.
And finally, you can always head to the Montelucia Resort and Spa for its Haunted Mansion this Saturday, October 29th. Enjoy food and drink specials, and live music by The Chris Parker Project. Advanced tickets are $25.
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