a guest blog by Marti Mayne

This year Halloween is on a Saturday, making it the perfect time to escape the costumed marauders and enjoy a hauntingly good time in Massachusetts. Leave a bowl of candy with a note suggesting one per person (yeah, right!) and escape for a great weekend at a bootiful B&B — or should we say “dead and breakfast” nearby.

Penny House Inn and Day Spa, Eastham, MA: There are some parts of this restored home that innkeepers won’t enter after 10 pm. Haunted? You decide. According to the innkeepers,  the spirits here are friendly, yet mischievous. Through October 31, take $50 off already low rates starting at $185 nightly for Queen, Deluxe Queen and Whirlpool King rooms when you book online. Check the availability calendar, then when you book online, $50 will automatically be deducted. Ghost sightings are included!

Thaddeus Clapp House , Pittsfield, MA: Mr. Clapp, the man who built the house in 1871, appears to be still hanging around, often seen walking the main staircase. Certain rooms seem to take on a glow – especially over the holidays – with some actually emitting extra heat. This Halloween, take in all the festivities with a Halloween Parade on Friday night, special ghost tours and treats on Saturday, and the Berkshire Scenic Railroad Halloween Train, accompanied by friendly witches. Weekend rates start at $175. Accommodations are suitable for children over 12.

1750 Inn at Sandwich Center, Sandwich, MA: Halloween weekend, Oct 30-31, take part in a murder mystery entitled “High School Homecoming - Not the Musical!” Dig out that old high school sweater or Varsity jacket and come sing the school fight song. If you thought High School was hard….this Reunion could be murder!! Your mystery-filled weekend for two includes a Friday evening pre-homecoming reception with wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres at the Inn, two tickets for the Sandwich Glass Museum, Saturday dinner, and the Belfry Bistro murder mystery including a three-course dinner with tax & gratuity included. The murder event is performed by a professional cast, and guests are encouraged to participate in helping to solve the heinous crime. You’ll also be treated to a hearty, full breakfast each morning. The package starts at $479 per couple. Rates are dependent upon room selection and do not include room tax.

Nichols Guest Rooms , Seekonk, MA: Sleep if you dare in a home that some say is haunted! This house is older than the town and full of past memories and haunting by all who have since departed. Stay Halloween weekend and read about haunted happenings from yesteryear in and around the house. Enjoy the hayrides, pumpkin carvings, corn mazes, apple orchards and related fall activities in the area. Two stay for under $90 per night including a full breakfast for two.

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Marti Mayne is dedicated to helping travelers discover the beauty and bonuses of B&Bs. As a travel blogger for Examiner.com, an associate editor for BedandBreakfast.com, and WanderingEducators.com, Marti visits B&Bs to gather insight and share reviews, tips and advice with readers.