This past weekend we visited three of Milwaukee’s established haunted houses in preparation for Halloween. All of the haunts (as the industry calls them) were superb in their own rights. For the purpose of this article, we will rate them on a 1-5 chainsaw scale, 1 being the lowest, 5 being the most frightening and entertaining. Gilly’s, located on the corner of 16th street and Forest Home Ave. in a greenhouse, is definitely the place to take the kiddies, and newcomers. Their actors are flawless, but their makeup could use a touchup. Oct 24th- donate a can of food to benefit the hungry, and save $2 on admission. www.gillyshauntedhouse.com 2 of 5 chainsaws.

Hauntfest, Wisconsin State Fair Park’s rendition of a haunted house, run by Music on the Move, was by far the best in pure entertainment. The theme for them this year was Michael Jackson Tribute. However, with the young actors, there was no scare factor involved. If you like entertainment, but hate the horror of a haunted house, this is the “haunt” for you!. Student Days- Bring your Student ID on October 15th, 22rd, 28th & the 29th and get $5.00 off the purchase of a ticket! Also, children lights on tours available. www.hauntfest.com 3 of 5 chainsaws.

Mars Haunted House, located on historical Mitchell street, on the corner of 8th street, is a blast! There is no doubt that the makeup artists know their jobs. We saw characters from every walk of Halloween. They will definitely make you jump, scream, nervously laugh, or whatever it is you do when you are watching a scary movie and the lights go out. However, the remote location can be a bit difficult to find unless you look for the hearse outside, and the line around the corner. Thursdays and Sundays are Family Nights- Any brave family members under 12 that would like to come visit this haunted house can get in for only $10 (must be with paid adult) and can use the “monster shield” necklace included free with admission to fend off monsters. www.marshauntedhouse.com 4 of 5 chainsaws

Gilly’s (Steve Paluch)