Kevin McCurdy’s Haunted Mansion in Poughkeepsie, NY is a slightly different type of haunted attraction. It’s been running since 1977 and, in our opinion, is one of the most interesting and creative haunts that you will find. Many of the cool tricks that you now take for granted at your usual haunt may have been invented by this guy and his team. KMHM was one of the first haunts to incorporate a storyline. In fact, he does extensive work for hire with other haunted attractions and was just getting set to leave to do an installation after the night that we came to his haunt.

This year they have 3 attractions. The Nightmare is a surreal walkthrough haunted house. Fright Trail is exactly what it sounds like. London After Midnight is a Jack the Ripper/Sweeney Todd/Mr. Hyde themed indoor haunt where you are led through (and at times terrorized by) an actor or actors.

These are not standard startle-scare haunts. This is a haunt that has startle scares but is very theatrical in it’s execution. You may need to sit or do something in each room, or you may just walk through. Actors may lead you through or you may need to find your own way. The sets and effects were, true to their word, different than any other haunt we have ever seen. “Handcrafted” is a good way to describe the great custom work that you’ll find here.

The night that we went through it wasn’t totally finished, so the finale room of this attraction was not yet present. If what we saw is any indicator, this is definitely one that you should check out. Given that it’s only 20 minutes away from Headless Horseman, it’s a no-brainer to do both in the same night to justify the commute. Beginning on Oct. 17th, there will be special Zombie Laser Hunt and Dark Night events that you must pre-register for in addition to the regular operating hours of the haunts.