COTTAGE GROVE, MN – June 18, 2026 – PRESSADVANTAGE –
The Haunting Experience recently participated in the TransWorld Halloween & Attractions Show 2026, gathering fresh ideas and exploring emerging trends to bring back to its seasonal operations in Minnesota. The family-owned attraction, known for its haunted house in Minnesota and related experiences, uses such industry engagement to refine its offerings while staying true to its roots in live performances and practical effects.
The TransWorld event provides haunt operators with opportunities to view new technologies, props, and design concepts from across the country. The Haunting Experience team attended to identify elements that could complement its existing attractions without replacing the human-driven scares that have defined the venue since 1986. This proactive approach supports ongoing evolution of the property along Highway 61 in Cottage Grove, just south of the Twin Cities.
Core attractions include the Haunted House, where visitors navigate hallways filled with dark entities and disorienting effects such as a notable spinning tunnel that creates a memorable sense of unease. The Haunted Hayride, Minnesota’s longest-running of its kind, offers a tractor-pulled journey through haunted forests and the fictional Wilhelm Steelworks, with live actors delivering timed encounters. The Massacre cornfield adds intensity through permitted light physical interactions for guests ages 13 and older.
These experiences benefit from annual updates informed by industry insights. The creative team of scare actors, artists, and builders incorporates practical enhancements that maintain the attraction’s signature blend of tension and accessibility. Visitor feedback frequently highlights the effectiveness of these elements, including the timing and creativity of performers.
Tom Zywiec, Owner of The Haunting Experience, stated: “Attending events like TransWorld allows us to stay connected with the broader haunt community and bring thoughtful improvements that enhance what our guests already enjoy about our Minnesota attractions.”
The attraction balances its evening scares with inclusive daytime options through the Fall Fun Fest on select dates. Families can enjoy art activities, pumpkin painting, free non-scary hayrides, lights-on tours of the Haunted House, and goat petting without any actors present. This dual programming ensures the venue serves a wide range of visitors, from thrill-seekers to those preferring milder seasonal outings.
Google reviews underscore the impact of the team’s efforts. One guest praised the haunted cornfield for its intensity, noting how it stood out alongside the hayride and house. Another highlighted the spinning tunnel in the haunted house as unforgettable and disorienting in the best way. Multiple reviewers mentioned friendly non-haunting staff who contributed to a positive overall atmosphere despite the scares.
Group accommodations further extend the attraction’s reach. Special rates for parties of 20, 50, or 100 people support school trips, corporate events, and family gatherings. Operations continue rain or shine with covered waiting areas, and on-site concessions provide refreshments to complete the visit.
The Zywiec Family’s commitment since founding the attraction in 1986 has established it as a regional staple. Participation in national events like TransWorld reflects a dedication to quality and innovation within the constraints of a family-operated business integrated with their landscape and garden center.
Safety remains a priority across all activities. Clear guidelines prohibit running or interfering with performers, creating an environment where guests can engage with the scares confidently. This foundation, combined with creative updates, helps sustain the attraction’s reputation for delivering consistent experiences year after year.
As the October season approaches, the insights gained from the industry show will contribute to subtle refinements across the property. The focus stays on authentic, live-element entertainment that has earned repeat visits from local and regional audiences.
The Haunting Experience is a family-owned haunted attraction in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, established in 1986 by the Zywiec Family. It features a Haunted House, Minnesota’s longest-running Haunted Hayride, the Massacre cornfield experience, and daytime Fall Fun Fest activities, serving visitors from the Twin Cities metropolitan area with seasonal Halloween entertainment.
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For more information about The Haunting Experience, contact the company here:
The Haunting Experience
Zywiec Family
651-459-3001
info@hauntingexperience.com
10900 E Point Douglas Rd S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
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