The Hall is full of surprises. It’s nestled along a quiet neighborhood street and is a charity haunt, both of which point to a born-to-be-mild haunted experience. But this is far from the truth. Tricks and devilish treats are released even as you wait in line. Is that a dummy or, no, that skeleton is chasing you. The footbridge gives way beneath your feet and the creepy living dead schoolgirl offers an eerie welcome. That’s even before you get in the door.
Once inside, you discover that this is truly the king of the old school haunted houses. The acting is stellar — the Devil who forces you to bow before him and the freaky elevator operator are our favorites — and the cooperation between the cast is perfect, delaying you so you can’t see the folks getting shocked up ahead and teaming together to steer you into a misdirection or a trap. The pitch-black maze is twice as big as last year and difficult to escape. Leave your coat in the car so you don’t overheat.
THE WAIT: Lines last 10-30 minutes and the tour can take up to 45 minutes.
DETAILS: 8-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 7-9 p.m Sunday through Oct. 31. There is a “lights on” tour for children at 6-6:45 p.m. Oct. 25. 7700 Seward Ave., Mount Healthy, free parking at Duvall School or on the street, 513-729-1974 or www.hauntedhallinfo.com
THE DAMAGE: $10 per person with a $2 discount for a canned good donation. The lights-on tour is $5 per child and free for adults.
CITYBEAT RATING: PG-13
