Every fall, Indianapolis families look for fun ways to lean into the spooky season—pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and fall festivals. But for families with older kids and teens who like a stronger thrill, Nightmare on Edgewood is among the most talked-about haunted attractions in the Indy area. It’s intense, interactive, and not for the faint of heart—but with the right planning and expectations, kids can have a memorable, and nerve-racking, night.
Should You Take Your Kids to Nightmare on Edgewood? Here’s What Parents Should Know
If your kids love a good scare, you’ve probably heard of Nightmare on Edgewood, one of Indy’s most famous haunted houses. This southside haunt has been terrifying guests for nearly five decades, and 2025 marks its final season! But is it something you can actually bring your kids to?
A lot of it depends on your kids. My kids started going to haunted houses when they were eight years old, and they were not the youngest kids there! The most crucial factor in deciding whether our kids were ready was that they really wanted to go. And, while they’ve been nervous before they go inside (who isn’t ?!?!), they’ve always come out saying it was the best time!
This year, I had my 10 and 13-year-olds with me. Both were scared at points. And, both had the absolute best time.
What to Expect at Nightmare on Edgewood
Located at 1959 South Meridian Street, Nightmare on Edgewood is known for being one of Indy’s most intense haunted attractions. Each ticket includes access to three different haunts: Unhinged, The Factory, and Conley Farm. Each is packed with realistic sets, creepy characters, and a few shocking surprises.
This is a full-contact haunt, which means actors may gently touch or guide guests as part of the experience. In the case of my 10 year old, he was actually picked up several times. The first time it happened, his eyes got REAL WIDE. But every time after that, it was the smile that got really wide! For anyone who would rather skip that part, you can pay extra for a “chicken vest.” And yes, it’s a bright yellow safety vest!
Expect fog, strobe lights, narrow hallways, jump scares, and a lot of screaming from both guests and monsters. Each scene is interactive, so don’t be surprised when you find yourself as part of the act!
Who Nightmare on Edgewood is Best For
Nightmare on Edgewood welcomes all ages, but it’s not recommended for young children. Whether your child is ready is up to you, but here are some suggestions if you’re unsure about your tween or teen.
- Kids who’ve already experienced lighter haunted attractions or scary movies and enjoy them.
- Kids who like to be scared and can laugh afterward.
- Families who are okay with a little chaos and adrenaline.
If your child is easily startled, hates the dark, or doesn’t enjoy surprise scares, this might be one to skip.
The Lights-On Trick-or-Treat Event
For families with younger kids, Nightmare on Edgewood often hosts a Lights-On Trick-or-Treat event. During this special day, the haunt opens its doors without the scares — no monsters, no darkness, just friendly Halloween fun inside the same detailed sets.
Kids can walk through, collect candy, and meet the actors in costume (minus the jump scares). It’s a great way to enjoy the spooky atmosphere without nightmares afterward. This year, the Lights-on Trick or treat event will be held on October 19, 2025 at 2 pm.
Tips for Parents Who Go
If your family decides to brave Nightmare on Edgewood, here’s how to make the night more fun for everyone:
- Go early in the evening or on a weeknight for shorter lines and a calmer atmosphere.
- Buy tickets in advance — the Fast Pass option helps skip long waits. We had the fast pass this year, and it prevented the dreaded line jitters.
- Stick together. Groups are sent in small batches of 4-6 people, so keep your crew close.
- Use the “no-touch” option if you’re worried about physical contact.
- Know that if someone gets too scared, staff can safely escort you out.
- Debrief afterward. Grab some snacks, talk about what was fun, and remind everyone it was all pretend.
The Final Season of Nightmare on Edgewood
Location: 1959 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis
Dates: September 20 – November 8, 2025
Open: Fridays, Saturdays, and select Thursdays/Sundays
Tickets: Available online or at the door (Fast Pass recommended)
Website: nightmareonedgewood.com
Nightmare on Edgewood is definitely one of Indy’s scariest haunts, but for the right family, it can also be one of the most memorable Halloween experiences of the season.
If your kids are ready for something a little bolder, go in with clear expectations, hold hands, and scream together—we sure did! And, if they’re not quite there yet, the Lights-On Trick-or-Treat is a perfect alternative. Either way, it’s a piece of Indianapolis Halloween history worth checking out before it disappears for good.
