Travel, Attractions & Events: Entertainment in Arizona, CA, NV and beyond!
Explore haunted attractions, theme parks, and vacation spots across Arizona, Southern California, and Las Vegas. From ghost tours and escape rooms to family trips to Disneyland and Universal Studios, dive into reviews and articles on entertainment, nostalgia, and the paranormal. Whether you're chasing thrills or uncovering eerie legends, this blog is your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Nightfall returns to Old Tucson with 22 acres of terror, three haunted houses, three scare zones, live shows, rides, craft food, and creepy cocktails. Dates, prices, and a full guide inside.
Dates, Tickets, Haunted Houses, Scare Zones, and Tips
Quick facts
Event dates: October 2 to November 1, 2025.
Hours:4:30 pm to 11:30 pm.
Dabney the Clown teams up with Jebediah Hyde to overthrow the Demon Queen. Expect a chaotic carnival of clowns and critters across the town.
Clear bag and no-costume policies for adults apply.
What’s new in 2025
Nightfall marks its 33rd year with bigger haunts, added entertainment, craft cuisine, and specialty cocktails.
Tickets go on sale August 7.
Haunted houses
1) The Funhouse (Dabney the Clown)
The clowns run Nightfall. Under Dabney’s command, this “fun” house turns laughter into screams. Enter their midway, but remember that their kind of fun can be deadly. Included with admission.
2) Guilliard Asylum
Jebediah Hyde reopens his father’s infamous madhouse for the criminally insane. Dark history, mistreatment, and experiments linger in every ward. Hyde is recruiting new test subjects. Included with admission.
3) Inferno
Descend into the hellfire pits of the underworld. Rotting corpses, spirits, and demons surround you. Avoid the gaze of the overlord or risk an eternity in the pits. Included with admission.
Scare zones
1) Clown Street
A gauntlet of maniacal clowns controls the streets. They hunt for screams, not laughter, and they’re very good at it. Included with admission.
2) The Coven
A hidden alleyway enclave where an evil coven barters living souls for the dead. Step lightly or become their next trade. Included with admission.
3) The Harvest
Each season, residents called to harvest vanish in the corn. Rumors tell of not-quite-human shapes in the stalks. Stick together and find your way out. Included with admission.
Live shows, rides, food, and merch
Nightfall layers in live entertainment, classic Old Tucson rides and attractions, craft food, creepy cocktails, and new 2025 merch across the park’s 22 acres. All details and show lineups post on the official page.
How to pick your night
Best value: Thursdays at $35.01 all-in. Great if you want lower price and often lighter crowds.
Peak energy: Fridays to Sundays bring premium pricing and bigger weekend vibes.
Season pass option: Unlimited entry to Nightfall and Yuletide with the 2025 Season Pass. Perks vary and may include VIP parking and discounts.
Pro tips for a smooth scare
Wear closed-toe shoes suited for outdoor desert terrain and uneven surfaces.
Hydrate. Bring a sealed or empty personal plastic water bottle within policy limits. Fill stations available in restaurants.
Follow the clear bag policy. Adults should not wear costumes or bring props or masks.
Arrive early to hit the haunted houses first, then loop back for scare zones and shows.
Ghost Ship Bar Mesa AZ – A Haunted Pirate Adventure at The Grand
Are you ready to set sail on a haunted pirate ship… in the middle of the Arizona desert? For those near Phoenix craving a spooky night out, The Ghost Ship Bar at The Grand is the perfect destination. This spooky themed bar in Phoenix is an immersive blend of horror, goth vibes, and swashbuckling fun. It’s quickly becoming one of the must-visit haunted bars in Arizona, drawing in a variety of guests and bar-crawlers looking for their next adventure. The Ghost Ship Bar promises a haunted pirate-themed experience you won’t forget – perfect for a quirky date night or a gathering of your crew.
A Haunted Pirate Ship Atmosphere That Delights
The Ghost Ship Bar’s entrance (inside The Grand) is decked out with pirate ship décor – from skeletal pirates to hanging ropes – setting the spooky scene right away. Step through the unassuming doors at The Grand and you’ll find yourself transported onto a derelict pirate galleon lost in time. The interior of Ghost Ship is a complete immersive fantasy, suggestive of a marooned and long-forgotten ship’s hull. Weathered wood, hanging ropes, creaking lanterns, and even holographic ghostly pirates surround you, powered by innovative sound and visual effects that create a 4D voyage experience.
It’s as if Pirates of the Caribbean met Disney’s Haunted Mansion and opened a bar together. From the moment you step inside, the vibe is spooky-yet-playful – think eerie ghost ship adventure with a tongue-in-cheek sense of fun. Don’t be afraid to wander and take it all in; half the joy is exploring this pirate lair and discovering all the haunted decor and Easter eggs lurking in the nooks and crannies.
Signature Spooky Cocktails & Killer Drinks
Of course, what’s a pirate adventure without some rum and grog? The Ghost Ship Bar’s cocktail menu is as creative as its decor, featuring new takes on tiki classics and other inventive concoctions. The bartenders here are like potion masters, mixing up drinks that are perfectly on-theme. You’ll find tropical tiki inspirations (their menu even includes a clever version of the infamous “Zombie” cocktail, potent enough to wake the dead) alongside an assortment of gin and whiskey creations for those who prefer their spirits a little less fruity. Each drink comes out with a beautiful presentation – don’t be surprised if your cocktail arrives garnished with fresh herbs, smoking mist, or in a fancy vessel that looks stolen from a pirate’s treasure chest.
Visitors rave about the signature cocktails, here are a few fan-favorites you might want to try:
Zombie – Their take on the tiki legend, this one’s strong and spicy – it might just bring out your inner pirate zombie.
Ghost Ship Grog – The house special pirate punch, a rum-forward grog that’ll have you saying “yo-ho-ho” in no time.
In addition to the killer cocktails, Ghost Ship offers a few small bites to satiate your hunger between spooky sips. The food menu isn’t huge (remember, this is a cocktail lounge, not a kitchen), but you can nibble on sharable flatbreads, pub-style boards, and even a phenomenal charcuterie board for a midnight snack. The bites are tasty and pair well with the drinks, but plan on eating dinner beforehand if you need a full meal – Ghost Ship is all about the drinks and atmosphere.
Live DJs, Themed Nights & Spooky Entertainment
The Ghost Ship isn’t just a feast for the eyes and taste buds – it’s also a lively nightlife hot spot with events and entertainment to keep the energy high. Music is a big part of the experience here. On many nights, you’ll hear a mix of dark wave, retro goth, and modern beats drifting through the ship’s corridors, giving the feeling that the crew’s throwing a never-ending dance party for the damned. In fact, every First Friday of the month, Ghost Ship hosts a special party night with a live DJ at the helm. Local favorite DJ Kris Gill takes over on First Fridays, spinning spooky tunes and alternative beats that get all the creatures of the night grooving. It’s become a First Friday tradition to kick off each month aboard the Ghost Ship with music, dancing, and of course, great cocktails under the neon-lit Jolly Roger (Ghost Ship first Fridays with Dj Kris Gill - Facebook). There’s no cover charge on these nights, so the place fills up with an eclectic crowd of pirates, goths, and ghostly fun-seekers ready to revel.
Beyond First Fridays, Ghost Ship often features themed nights and events to keep things fresh. They’ve hosted everything from guest DJs and costume parties, to spooky holiday celebrations. (Imagine spending Halloween on this pirate ship – talk about a match made in heaven… or maybe Davy Jones’ locker!) You might catch a pirate-themed costume contest one night, or a “haunted karaoke” session on another – the calendar can vary, but it’s always a good time. The bar’s social media has teased special events like Pirate Trivia. One thing’s for sure: dressing up is definitely welcome. The atmosphere is so immersive that you may feel inspired to come in your best pirate garb or vampire ensemble just to join the fun. Whether you arrive in full goth makeup, a pirate hat, or just your casual attire, you’ll fit right in with the diverse, come-as-you-are crowd.
While the vibe can get wild on weekends, there are options for those who prefer a more low-key haunt. If you’re looking for a quieter experience or a chance to snag the best seat in the captain’s quarters, try visiting on a Wednesday, Thursday, or Sunday evening when things are a bit calmer. You can often walk right in on those nights with no wait, giving you more time to soak in the scenery and chat with the friendly bar staff about the ghostly lore of the place. there is a $20 dllar minimum which is done by lacing a deposit, where they give you 2 $10 "pirate gold" tokens to turn in at the end of the night towards credit on the final bill.
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025: Arizona’s Ultimate Geek Convention is Back!
Grab your cosplay, charge your lightsabers, and practice your best “Wakanda Forever” pose because Phoenix Fan Fusion is coming back in 2025 — and it's gonna be bigger, bolder, and geekier than ever!
This pop-culture mega-event hits downtown Phoenix from May 23-25, 2025 at the Phoenix Convention Center, and whether you're a hardcore comic nerd, movie buff, anime addict, or just love a good cosplay contest — Fan Fusion has something for everyone.
What is Phoenix Fan Fusion?
Think Comic-Con — but AZ style!
Phoenix Fan Fusion is the Southwest’s biggest celebration of all things geeky, nerdy, and pop culture cool. It's where fandoms unite — whether you're into:
Comics & Graphic Novels
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Star Wars & Marvel
Anime & Manga
Video Games & Tabletop
Cosplay & Creativity
Or just looking for your people!
This 3-day event transforms downtown Phoenix into a nerdy wonderland packed with celebrities, artists, gaming zones, and an absolutely EPIC vendor hall.
When & Where?
Dates: May 23-25, 2025 (Memorial Day Weekend)
Location: Phoenix Convention Center, Downtown Phoenix, AZ
Photo Ops — Snap pics with your fave celebs or against themed backdrops.
Kid-Friendly Activities — Family cosplay parade, workshops, and fandom fun.
Why You Should Go
Safe, welcoming, and cosplay-friendly space
Huge community of geeks, gamers, creators, and fans
Tons of activities for all ages
Perfect for first-timers & long-time nerds
Downtown Phoenix food & fun just steps away
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 is the place to let your inner nerd shine bright. Whether you're rocking full armor cosplay or just there to shop for comics and collectibles — everyone fits in here.
Don’t miss out on Arizona’s biggest celebration of fandom, friendship, and full-on geek glory!
Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025: Spooky Fun Awaits in Glendale This July
Are you ready for a horror convention so fun it’s scary? Mark your calendars for Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 – a frightfully fantastic event bringing horror icons, cosplay, and after-hours spooky revelry to the Phoenix area. This year’s Mad Monster Party takes place July 11–13, 2025 at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa, transforming the upscale venue into a haunted playground of monsters and fans. Whether you’re a die-hard horror nerd or just looking for a unique summer event, this Glendale, AZ convention promises a spooktacular weekend you won’t forget.
When & Where: Haunted Hotel Horror in Glendale, AZ
Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 runs from Friday, July 11 through Sunday, July 13, 2025 at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa (9495 W. Entertainment Blvd, Glendale, AZ). Each day of this horror convention has different hours (Friday 6pm–11pm; Saturday 11am–7pm; Sunday 11am–5pm) (Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 - Mad Monster), giving you three days and nights of MADness to enjoy. The Renaissance Glendale will feel like a “haunted hotel” for the weekend – expect its halls to be filled with costumed creatures, eerie decor, and the buzz of excited horror fans.
Located in Glendale (part of the Phoenix metro area), the venue is easy to reach and surrounded by shops and restaurants at Westgate Entertainment District – so you can grab a bite between frights. You might even consider booking a room on-site to stay in the heart of the action (if you dare spend the night in a hotel full of monsters!). The atmosphere will be casual and welcoming, but with a delightfully spooky twist – perfect for first-timers and horror veterans alike.
Celebrity Guests to Give You Goosebumps 👻
One of the biggest draws of Mad Monster Party Arizona is the killer lineup of celebrity guests. Horror icons and fan-favorite stars will be on hand to sign autographs, take photos, and do Q&A panels. The Mad Monster Glendale guests this year include genre legends from classic slashers, modern horror, and even pro wrestling. Here are some of the star guests announced for 2025:
Robert Englund – Yes, Freddy Krueger himself will be in attendance! Englund, who portrayed the razor-gloved boogeyman in the A Nightmare on Elm Street series, is making a special appearance (offering professional photo-ops only – no table selfies. One, two, Freddy’s coming for you… to Glendale!
A Nightmare on Elm Street Reunion – In addition to Robert Englund, several actresses from the Elm Street series will be on hand. Amanda Wyss (who played Tina, Freddy’s very first victim in the original Nightmare), Brooke Bundy (Elaine Parker in Nightmare 3 & 4), and Brooke Theiss (Debbie from Nightmare 4 – remember the cockroach scene?) are all scheduled to atten . Elm Street fans can meet these leading ladies of their nightmares and perhaps get some behind-the-scenes tidbits from the 80s films.
Brad Dourif – Horror fans know him as the voice of Chucky in the Child’s Play films, among many other roles. Brad Dourif (the man behind the murderous doll) is “your friend till the end” and will be meeting fans at Mad Monster Party Arizona 202. This is a rare chance to meet the actor who brought Chucky’s cackle to life on screen.
David Arquette – Actor and Scream alumni David Arquette (who played Deputy Dewey Riley in the Scream franchise) is coming to Mad Monster Party AZ as wel (. He’s also known for Eight Legged Freaks and even holds a bit of horror history as a former “Halloween Havoc” pro wrestling champion in real life. Meet Arquette and ask him what it was like facing Ghostface and giant spiders!
Kane Hodder – The man behind the mask of Jason Voorhees in four Friday the 13th films (parts VII–X) and the hatchet-wielding Victor Crowley in the Hatchet series. Kane Hodder is a fan-favorite at horror cons – expect a bone-crushing handshake and great stories of playing an indestructible killer.
Ken Kirzinger – Another actor who donned the hockey mask, Ken Kirzinger portrayed Jason in Freddy vs. Jason. He actually went toe-to-claw with Robert Englund in that film, so having both Freddy and this Jason in person is a treat. (They’re even doing a special Freddy vs. Jason dual photo-op at the event for the ultimate fan souvenir!)
And more, including: Fiona Dourif, Danielle Harris, Saraya-Jade Bevis, Griffin Dunne, Michael Paré, Kim Director! The organizers hint that even more guest announcements may be coming . In past years, Mad Monster Party Arizona has hosted 30+ celebrity guest , so the roster is stacked. You never know who else might show up – perhaps a surprise appearance by another horror legend or a cult film favorite. Keep an eye on their social media for last-minute additions.
With such a diverse and star-studded cast of Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 guests , there’s someone for every horror fan to get excited about. Many of these celebrities will be signing autographs and taking photos all weekend (just note that most do charge fees for autographs/selfies, and some like Englund only do pro photo-ops). All guests are scheduled for all three days unless otherwise note , but as always, appearances are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. So cross your fingers that all your favorites make it – and maybe practice your best “don’t fangirl too hard” face for when you meet them!
Killer Events & Activities All Weekend
Mad Monster Party isn’t just about meeting celebs – it’s an immersive experience with tons of activities, vendors, and entertainment for attendees. Here are some of the frightful events and attractions you can look forward to at Arizona’s horror convention of the year:
Cosplay & Costume Contest: Break out your most creative creepy costume for the Mad Monster Party cosplay contest in Glendale, AZ. Whether you dress as a screen-accurate Michael Myers or a mash-up like “Zombie Disney Princess,” all are welcome. The con invites fans to *enter the costume contest for cash prizes , so you might even win some loot for your DIY monster outfit. Cosplayers roam the hotel all weekend, making for killer photo ops. The contest itself is a highlight, with categories for different ages or themes, and big applause for the winners. Even if you’re too shy to compete, the Saturday night costume showcase is a must-see spectacle of spooky creativity.
Q&A Panels: Ever wanted to ask a horror icon a question? Throughout the weekend, there will be Q&A panels and discussions where the celebrity guests chat about their experiences and take fan questions. These panels are usually included with admission and provide some of the most memorable moments. Imagine hearing Brad Dourif do the Chucky laugh in person, or Robert Englund recount a behind-the-scenes prank from the Elm Street set! Panels are typically moderated and run during the day – expect topics like the legacy of Nightmare on Elm Street, the making of Scream, women in horror (with folks like Danielle Harris and Fiona Dourif), and more. Check the final schedule (usually released closer to the event) so you don’t miss your dream panel.
After-Hours Parties & Scaraoke: When the show floor closes, the spooky fun keeps going. On Friday and Saturday night, stick around for after-hours events that let you party with other attendees. One signature event is “Scaraoke” – scary karaoke – where you can “kill” your favorite songs on the mi. Belt out “Monster Mash,” channel Ozzy Osbourne, or serenade the crowd with “Time Warp” from Rocky Horror. Costumes + karaoke = a hilariously good time (imagine Ghostface singing pop songs, or Elvira doing heavy metal!). The hotel will have bars open for liquid courage (it is a 21+ friendly event in the evenings; under 18 might have curfews on karaoke). In addition to Scaraoke, there may be a themed party or mixer – past Mad Monster events have done an 80s horror prom night, a zombie pin-up contest, and other ghoulish gatherings. These parties are generally free for attendees (most after-party events are included with your con admission , so everyone can mingle and have fun. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dancing with a zombie or having a drink with someone in a Freddy costume!
Exhibitor Hall – “Merchants of the Macabre”: Bring your spending money, because the vendor room will be full of temptations. Mad Monster Party Arizona boasts a curated selection of *exhibitors from all over the country selling horror memorabilia, art, collectibles, clothing, props, and more. You can shop for rare horror DVDs, handmade jewelry, movie posters, spooky home décor, monster masks, and of course lots of Funko Pops and action figures. Meet local artists who create ghastly artwork, or snag that vintage Creature from the Black Lagoon poster you’ve been hunting. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir (or three) and support small businesses that cater to our horror and pop culture obsessions.
Workshops and Photo Displays: Beyond the main events, keep an eye out for other cool happenings. There may be makeup FX demonstrations, horror short film screenings, or workshops on topics like cosplay crafting or indie filmmaking. Some conventions also feature galleries of fan art or a museum of monster props/costumes. While Mad Monster hasn’t released all details yet, they often have a few extra surprises to enhance the experience for fans roaming the convention floor. Even just people-watching is entertainment – you’ll see kids in adorable costumes, adults in incredibly elaborate creature get-ups, and maybe even a celeb casually walking around.
With panels, parties, contests, and more, Mad Monster Party offers an immersive horror-themed carnival atmosphere. You can be as active or as laid-back as you want: chase down every event on the schedule, or just hang out in the hotel lobby in costume and make new friends. The vibe is super friendly and inclusive – it’s like a big Halloween family reunion in the middle of summer. Don’t worry if you can’t attend all three days, either; each day has unique highlights (Friday’s kickoff and Scaraoke, Saturday’s peak hours and costume contest, Sunday’s more relaxed vibe and last-chance shopping). But if you can swing the whole weekend, you’ll get the full “Shriekend” experience!
Tips to Make the Most of the MADness
To ensure you have a killer time at Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025, here are a few quick tips and reminders:
Tickets: Grab your tickets in advance online if possible. You can buy single-day passes or a full-weekend (Shriekend) pass. Prices are reasonable (around $35–$45 for single days, and there’s often a discounted weekend bundle) – but note that *prices go up at the door . Save some cash by securing your pass early. Also, special event tickets like photo ops can be purchased ahead on the Mad Monster website. Popular photo ops (e.g. Robert Englund’s) may sell out, so don’t procrastinate if you want those.
Hotel & Parking: If you’re local to Phoenix, the Glendale location is an easy drive. The Renaissance Phoenix Glendale has parking and there are additional lots at Westgate. If you want the full experience, consider booking a room at the hotel – that way you have a home base to drop off merch, change costumes, or take a breather. Plus, you won’t have to worry about driving after late-night Scaraoke. The hotel might offer a special convention rate; check the Mad Monster site for a *hotel link and book early, as rooms can sell out with all these monsters in town.
All Ages Welcome: Despite the spooky theme, this event is family-friendly. In fact, kids 12 and under get in FREE with a paid adult! If you have young horror fans or Halloween-loving kids, bring them along (daytime is best for kids – the little ones might get tired or spooked at the late parties). There will be plenty of tame fun for them, including seeing costumed characters (maybe a chance to high-five a Ghostbuster or take a pic with a friendly Frankenstein). Just use parental discretion on what events to attend; some panels might discuss R-rated film stuff, and the after-hours scene is more adult-oriented.
Bring Cash: Many vendors and celeb tables accept cards now, but it’s always smart to have some cash on hand for quicker transactions, especially for autograph lines. Small bills are useful if a celeb charges, say, $40 for a signed 8x10 – it saves time if you have exact change. There may be ATMs on-site, but they often have fees and lines.
Costume Comfort: If you’re cosplaying, remember Arizona in July is HOT (though the convention is indoors with blessed AC). Plan your costume accordingly – you might want lighter materials or to take breaks so you don’t melt like a witch in water. Also, cosplay is not consent: the event will have rules to ensure everyone feels safe. Always ask before taking photos of or with someone, and be respectful. The organizers have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or really inappropriate attire (so maybe save the super gory stuff for after hours). Generally, the crowd is awesome and inclusive.
Join the Monster Mash – Don’t Miss Out!
Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest horror conventions of the summer. It’s the ultimate gathering for horror buffs in Phoenix, with celebrity guests, cosplay contests, Q&A panels, and after-hours parties all under one (haunted) roof. Whether you’re excited to meet the actors who gave you nightmares, show off your costume creation, or just soak in the spooky atmosphere, this event has something for every fan of the macabre. As the organizers like to say, it’s *“Arizona’s Horror & Pop Culture event of the year” – and they aren’t kidding. The combination of stars, events, and enthusiastic community makes it a monster of a good time.
So dust off your Freddy glove, polish your vampire fangs, and get ready to party with fellow creatures of the night. 🎉 Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 is creeping up soon – July 11–13 in Glendale – and it’s an event you’ll be howling about afterward. Grab your tickets now (before they vanish into smoke), prep your camera for celeb selfies, and prepare for a weekend of chills, thrills, and ghoulishly good fun. Don’t miss the chance to make killer summer memories at this haunted happening. As Chucky would say, “Attending will be a real scream – wanna play?” 😈👹
Get ready to join the MADness – see you at Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025!
For more info, tickets, and updates, visit the official Mad Monster Party Arizona web (Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 | Mad Monster) and remember: the freaks come out at night… in Glendale this summer!
