As the leaves change and the air gets crisp, there’s no better way to get into the Halloween spirit than with a trip to Molitor’s Haunted Acres in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota. In this episode of The Small Town Tourist Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Tammy Molitor, co-owner of this beloved haunted attraction. We chatted about how Molitor’s Haunted Acres came to be, its impact on the local community, and what makes it a must-visit destination each fall.
A Spooky Start
Molitor’s Haunted Acres began with a simple idea over 26 years ago and has since transformed into a fall tradition for families across Central Minnesota. What started as a small Halloween-themed event quickly grew, thanks to Tammy and Ron’s team’s passion for creating unforgettable experiences for their guests. Each year, they pour their hearts into designing new sets, finding the right scares, and making sure that everyone leaves with lasting memories.
As Tammy told me, the focus is on community and creativity. Every haunted scene, from pop-outs to haunted houses, is thoughtfully crafted with the guest experience in mind. The event is catered towards teens and adults. With plenty of family and kid-friendly fall activities in the area, the Molitor’s wanted to provide something fun for the older crowd to enjoy this time of year.
Adapting and Innovating
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how many events were held, and Molitor’s Haunted Acres was no exception. Tammy shared how her team worked tirelessly to adapt their attraction to ensure safety without sacrificing the fun. The attraction went from hayride to a fully immersive walk-through experience and has been operating that way for four years now.
These innovations not only kept the attraction going during difficult times but also led to some lasting changes that continue to enhance the guest experience today. “We’re always thinking ahead,” Tammy mentioned. “We took what we learned and used it to improve how we do things.”
A Community Effort
One of the most inspiring aspects of Molitor’s Haunted Acres is its deep connection to the local community. Tammy spoke about the wonderful staff who come back year after year to be part of the attraction. Some have been scaring visitors since the early days, while new faces bring fresh energy and ideas.
“The community is really what makes this place special,” Tammy said. The team at Molitor’s is also dedicated to keeping things under wraps. The scarers in the attraction do their best to not reveal their identities, kind like Disney World attraction workers!
Halloween Events and Future Plans
Molitor’s Haunted Acres isn’t just a one-night experience; it’s a season-long celebration of all things Halloween. Themed parties, costume contests, and events happen throughout October, making it a hub for seasonal fun. The staff dress in costume every weekend at the Grill and Bar, and they go all out! The whole Molitor’s team is dedicated to making Halloween the most fun it can be!
As we wrapped up our conversation, Tammy hinted at some exciting plans for the future, including even more ways to engage the community. She envisions new events that bring people together and build on the tradition they’ve worked so hard to create.
Ready to Visit?
If you’re looking for the ultimate Halloween experience, Molitor’s Haunted Acres should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just love the festive atmosphere, this haunted attraction offers something for everyone. Tickets can be purchased online for convenience, or you can grab them at the door when you arrive.
This is one local haunt you won’t want to miss!
The Small Town Tourist 
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