Philadelphia does spooky season with extra flair. Walk a few blocks in Center City or Old City and you will pass skeletons hanging from ceilings, neon cobwebs, and cocktail lists that bubble and smoke. This year’s Halloween takeovers run the spectrum from circus-y creepy beer gardens to sky-high lounges, with a handful of immersive shows that turn your drink order into part of the plot.

Philadelphia, often celebrated for its constitutional history and die-hard football fans, has another side—a spooky side that just might raise the hair on your neck. This Halloween, as you wander through the city, you will find more than beautiful murals and Liberty Bell tours. In fact, some of the local bars and restaurants have a reputation for offering more than just a fantastic menu and inviting atmosphere. They're known for their ghostly residents, tales of betrayal, and whispers of the supernatural.

It’s that spooky time of year again, where the spirits come out to play and Philadelphia's nightlife scene gets a haunted makeover. Forget trick-or-treating – this year, it's all about tricked-out cocktails and boo-tiful atmospheres at some of Philadelphia's hottest Halloween-themed bars. Curious which spots made the cut? Let’s get into it!