The Dent School House encompasses the true spirit of Halloween: unrestrained fear. Not for the weak-hearted, it’s perfected the art of the scare. While waiting in line a film explains the history of the school and what brought such horror to a place intended to teach and nurture. It keeps the guest entertained during what can be a long wait on busy nights. Groups enter one at a time at about two-minute intervals. I went with one other person, which made the trip all the more unsettling as we debated who would walk in front. The tight hallways demand that you walk in a single file line just like you did in school.
Once you enter the building you’re greeted by deformed and tortured spirits that haunt the school. The lunch lady embodies all that a scary cafeteria worker should: hair net, bugs and unidentified meat products of suspicious origins. As you continue through the building, the sharp turns, dark hallways and eerie screams leave you feeling unsettled to say the least. You continually wonder who or what might confront you next. For me, the most frightening moment came toward the end, where I found myself in the middle of a deserted carnival with demonic clowns. Despite my best effort at composure, I screamed like a little girl.
The journey, once inside, lasts about 30 minutes. 7:30 p.m-12 a.m. Friday-Saturday and 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m Sunday through Nov. 1. Parking is free.
5963 Harrison Ave., Harrison, Exit 11 off I-74, 513-598-4600, www.frightsite.com
What to Expect: Shifting floors and a vertigo tunnel
What’s Unique: Excellent backstory and great visuals
The Damage: $13
CityBeat Rating: R
