One of the most anticipated holidays of the year is Halloween. When people hear the word Halloween, most immediately think of costume parties, horror movies, trick-or-treating, and horror stories. When it comes to planning haunted trips and Halloween-inspired activities, there is no doubt that Baguio City is one of the best destinations in the Philippines to experience this fun and exciting holiday.
If you are on the hunt for fun and spine-chilling adventures, here are a few spooktacular activities you might want to explore. From haunted tours to one-of-a-kind food explorations, here is a quick guide to your next Halloween trip to Baguio.
#1 Explore Baguio’s Most Haunted Attractions
Behind the fog that blankets the streets of the City of Pines are countless mysteries and horrific tales that bring a different kind of chill and hair-raising experience. From its tragic history, dating back to the World War II Japanese Occupation to the 1990 Luzon earthquake, Baguio City is known for its haunted spots that are popular with locals and tourists.
Somewhere along Dominican Hill on Diplomat Road, you’ll come across one of the creepiest places to visit in Baguio City. Known today as Heritage Hill and Nature Park Garden, the former Diplomat Hotel was originally built as a school before it was turned into a hotel. It was previously utilized as a refugee camp during World War II. It is believed that many soldiers, priests, nuns, and Filipinos were decapitated in this old building. With its tragic points in history, it is understandably the most popular haunted spot in Baguio City.
After a 20-to-30-minute drive from the Diplomat Hotel, you will arrive at Camp John Hay. Famous for its lush green pine trees and different leisure spots, Camp John Hay also has its own share of terrifying pasts. Located inside its premises is a haunted area known as “Murder Woods,” which was believed to be an execution site during the Japanese occupation.
Other famous haunted locations in Baguio City that you may want to check out are Teacher’s Camp, Loakan Road, and the Japanese Tunnel in the Botanical Garden.
#2 Dine in at Baguio’s Famous Haunted House – The Laperal White House: Joseph’s Restaurant
Another unique activity to add to your itinerary is dining in a haunted house.
The Laperal White House, a popular attraction along Leonard Wood Road, boasts a Victorian-style exterior reminiscent of American Colonial architecture. The Laperal White House was home to the Laperal family during the American rule. Terror knocked on their doors during World War II when the house was turned into a garrison. According to passed-on stories, the Japanese soldiers brutally tortured and imprisoned many people inside the white house.
Over the years, the property has been renovated, opened to the public, and even once hosted an Ifugao Bamboo Carving Gallery. Recently, the mansion was turned into a fine dining restaurant called Joseph’s, which serves a diverse selection of continental and contemporary French cuisine and offers an exceptional dining experience.
#3 Participate in Citywide Horror Events
Aside from its haunted spots and thrilling history, the City of Pines also hosts different city-wide Halloween events that everyone can enjoy.
If you are visiting the city from October to the first week of November, make sure to be on the lookout. In previous years, locals and tourists took part in events such as the Baguio Festival of Horrors, trick-or-treating, and the annual Zombie Walk.
#4 Experience a Hogwarts-Themed Cafe: Marauder’s Brew
For people who have a different take on other kinds of fun activities to do during Halloween, one cool idea is to visit Halloween-themed locations.
Located at Kisad Road, Baguio City, the Marauder’s Brew Cafe is an excellent place for Potterheads or even those who are just looking for a one-of-a-kind cafe adventure where they can chill and hang out at an instagrammable cafe with Hogwarts vibes.
This themed cafe offers food inspired by the popular book series-turned-movie, Harry Potter. Aside from its Gryffindor common room-looking interior, customers can also take photos while wearing Hogwarts costumes. To complete the fun experience, the cafe also offers different card games, including Cards Against Muggles and other games like Uno and Jenga.
Spend Your Halloween at El Retiro Baguio!
After experiencing a thrilling adventure around the city, it is time for you to have a relaxing and luxurious rest. El Retiro is the perfect vacation home while you are in the city. Situated in a tranquil residential area on Outlook Drive, we provide unique, exclusive, and elegant accommodations while combining comfort, privacy, and luxury.
With its charming mid-century design, surrounded by lush greeneries and the scent of fresh pine trees, El Retiro is the ideal home for you, your family, and your friends. Plan your next Baguio trip and book an unforgettable stay at El Retiro!