CROMWELL - When you get tired of picking apples and finally get out of the corn maze, why not scare up a good time with family and friends by checking out some of the spookier attractions in, and not too far from, Connecticut. Our list isn’t comprehensive, but it does give you variety--from ‘not too scary’ to ‘so scary you might want to leave the kids home.’

      

       Connecticut Haunts

      

       The Occult Museum of Ed & Lorraine Warren - Monroe

       They were there for Amityville. Hollywood made a movie about them (The Conjuring). And, they’ve captured hundreds of spooked, possessed and horrifically haunted artifacts from their paranormal studies, including the famous Annabelle doll (yep, the movie will be in theaters this October). They are Ed and Lorraine Warren and for over 50 years they’ve been America’s preeminent experts on spirits, ghosts and demonology. You can visit their museum, located in their home in Monroe. Tickets for â€�"Warrenology” sell out fast and tours during October (as well as other times of the year) are limited.

       Info: www.warrens.net/Events---Calender-Museum-Graveyard-Dinner.html

       www.warrens.net/Events---Calender-Museum-Graveyard-Dinner.html

       Scare Factor: High. The stories behind the artifacts are just so creepy, they will keep you up at night. Don’t believe me? Watch The Conjuring. Also, check events on line for recommended ages.

      

       Trail of Terror – Wallingford

       Be afraid…be very afraid. Awful things have happened in the woods in Wallingford. From maniacs with chainsaws to possessed clowns and murder! Bloody murder! This trail packs a powerfully frightening punch. Wear a jacket, bring a flashlight--and maybe a crucifix.

       Info: http://trailofterror.com

       Scare Factor: High. Children under 10 not advised to attend. There’s also a list of medical conditions that may be aggravated by events that take place on the trail.

      

       Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce

       Catacombs, slaughter house, zombies and vampires, oh my! A highly-acclaimed frightful production of mayhem, misery and madness on the grounds of Connecticut’s favorite theme park.

       Info: www.warrens.net/Events---Calender-Museum-Graveyard-Dinner.html

       Scare Factor: Varies by attraction. Some areas will not be suitable for younger children.

      

       Seaside Shadows Haunted Tours – Mystic

       Giggling ghosts, haunted artifacts, eerie legends and spooks abound in Connecticut’s beloved seaside town. There are moonlit tours of downtown Mystic, graveyard tours and much more. And, important side note: During her teen years, the founder of the program, Courtney McInvale Reardon, had her childhood home in East Hampton inspected by Ed and Lorraine Warren--several times.

       Info: www.warrens.net/Events---Calender-Museum-Graveyard-Dinner.html

       Scare Factor: Most events should be family friendly, but check the website for details.

      

       Trick or Trunk – Cromwell

       It gets better every year…and no doubt this year will be full of spooky surprises when the ECS/WIS PTO puts on its biggest fundraiser of the season. Kids and grown-ups, put on your costume and head down to Pierson Park Oct. 24 from 4-8 p.m. to visit the scariest place in town! Parents and school staff decorate the trunks of their vehicles while townsfolk walk through to ask for a â€�"trick or treat.”

       And…well, well…rumor has it that a certain Mistress of Evil may be making an appearance along with a perky princess who likes to wear a pink dress. That is, if the Mistress receives her invitation in time. Can you guess who it might be?

      

       Pumpkins, Scarecrows & Corn Mazes

       Most Connecticut towns celebrate Halloween in someway. Wethersfield, West Hartford, Wallingford and Milford have popular festivals and the decorated scarecrows and pumpkins usually line the â€�"Main Street” of most towns. Many farms and orchards host corn mazes and festive activities for all ages. Before you head out the door, check the Web for your destination and see what spooky fun might be in store for you and the family.

      

       Beyond Connecticut--be very afraid!

       The following events are typically very well known for their scare factor, and need little introduction. They are listed here just to remind you, in case that memory spell cast upon you hasn’t worn off yet!

      

       Fright Fest at Six Flags New England

       Info: http://trailofterror.com

      

       Salem (Need we say more?)

       Info: http://trailofterror.com

      

       Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. (Don’t lose your head!)

       Info: http://trailofterror.com