Nightmare on 13th Named a Top 5 Haunted Attraction

The Salt Lake City haunt received national recognition from America Haunts for its 2026 season.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Horror

Bold vector editorial illustration of rusted iron gates casting long shadows on a brick wall, evoking a theatrical haunt atmosphere. — Nightmare on 13th, a long-running Salt Lake City haunted attraction, was named one of the top five fan favorite haunted houses for 2026 by America Haunts. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you plan to visit a local haunted attraction during the Halloween season this year?

America Haunts has named the Salt Lake City staple Nightmare on 13th one of the top five fan favorite haunted attractions for 2026. This designation places the long-running local site alongside other top-tier haunted destinations across the United States.

Why it matters

National recognition from industry organizations like America Haunts highlights the operational scale and creative consistency required for seasonal attractions to maintain popularity over decades. This award underscores the impact of local entertainment venues on the regional tourism and seasonal event landscape.

The attraction is currently operating in its 37th season with a nightly staff of 100 employees. Throughout the duration of the season, the venue employs a total workforce of 200 to 250 individuals.

The players

Nightmare on 13th

This Salt Lake City haunted house has operated for 37 seasons and is a major local entertainment venue.

America Haunts

This is an industry association that tracks and recognizes premier haunted attractions across the country.

The details

Located at 300 W. 1300 South, the venue continually updates its sets, characters, and special effects to keep the experience fresh. The 2026 season introduced the 13th Manor theatrical scare show, along with new animatronics and an added ride.

September 18, 2026: Nightmare on 13th opened for the 2026 season.

Industry Dynamics

The haunted attraction industry relies on recurring seasonal investment and constant innovation to maintain interest in a competitive entertainment market. Being named a fan favorite helps venues like Nightmare on 13th stand out amidst the growth of professionalized, high-budget haunted houses nationwide.

Local thrill-seekers can visit the attraction at 300 W. 1300 South throughout the active 2026 season. The venue features rotating sets and new additions like the 13th Manor, providing unique experiences for attendees returning this year.

The takeaway

Maintaining a top-tier status for nearly four decades requires a consistent commitment to evolving production values and scare tactics. Visitors can expect a shifting experience each year as attractions compete to remain at the forefront of the seasonal horror industry.