1.    Terror Behind the Walls

This nationally ranked haunted attraction is set within the abandoned ruins of what was once one of the world’s most famous prisons. Make your way through six stages full of special effects and professional actors on a mission to make you scream. If you dare, opt in for a glow-in-the-dark necklace that gives the actors permission to grab you and even separate you from your friends. Students get in for half price every Sunday. 

When: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and select weekdays, now through Nov. 5

Where: Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, Pa 

How Much: $19-45 (online or at the door)

2.    Harry Potter Festival 

The annual event returns this year in an expanded format with eight blocks of Germantown Avenue closed to traffic for the street festival. Ride the Hogwarts Express (special SEPTA trains depart from Jefferson Station and run up the Chestnut Hill West line), attend the Brotherly Love Quidditch Tournament and even meet Harry himself. Plus, on Friday night take part in the annual Harry Potter Pub Crawl featuring drink specials and butterbeer samples. Costumes are encouraged. 

When: Oct. 21-22

Where: Chestnut Hill, Pa

How Much: Pay as you go

3.    Midtown Village Fall Festival

Every year, more than 50,000 people flood the streets of Philadelphia for this fall-themed block party. Enjoy live music, food, arts and crafts and a beer garden. Various vendors, craft-makers, artists and street performers from across the city will be in attendance.  

When: Oct. 1, 12-8 PM

Where: 13th Street between Market and Locust Streets, Philadelphia, Pa

How Much: Pay as you go

4.    Philly’s Cheesesteak and Food Fest

Experience Philly food at its finest! More than 50 vendors will fill Philadelphia’s ballpark with samples of cheesesteaks and other Philly favorites. The festival includes a cheesesteak eating contest, carnival games, food trucks and live music plus a special appearance by the Philly Phanatic. General admission gains you entry to the festival while the premium option includes 10 food samples and two tickets to a Phillies game for the 2017 season.     

When: Oct. 15, 12:30-5PM

Where: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, Pa

How Much: General Admission $20, Premium $45

5.    The Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride

The nationally-ranked haunted hayride is the highlight of this attraction. Ride through over 20 scenes including a 200-foot-long cave and an insane asylum. Guests can also visit the Bates Motel haunted house and the haunted corn maze. Students receive $10 off their ticket purchases on select nights. 

When: Now through Oct. 31st (College Discount Nights Oct. 13, Oct. 20)

Where: Glen Mills, Pa

How Much: Varies by attraction, see thebatesmotel.com/tickets for details