This One's for the Ghouls: Girls Night Out This October
October in downtown Raleigh serves up the perfect mix of fright and fun, making it an ideal backdrop for a Halloween-themed Girls' Night Out (or Girls’ Day Out!) Whether you're craving eerie adventures or just looking to enjoy a witchy cocktail, Raleigh offers plenty of spots to create a memorable night with your favorite ghouls.
Check out these five places and events that are sure to make your ladies' night unforgettable this October.
Wicked Spirits at The Merchant: Start your night off with spooky cocktails at The Merchant, a speakeasy that oozes vintage charm and haunted vibes. In October, the bar leans into the season with specialty drinks inspired by the supernatural. Picture sipping on a "Dollhouse Nightmares" cocktail or a Mezcal concoction that feels like it was brewed by witches. The dark, moody atmosphere sets the perfect tone for a girls’ night full of laughter and mystery. 126 S. Salisbury St.
Our Advice: Go early to grab a cozy corner and start with their small plates menu while catching up with your crew.
Ghost Tour with US Ghost Adventures: If your squad loves ghost stories, this one’s a must! US Ghost Adventure Ghost Tours uncover the eerie history behind the lost colony of Sir Walter Raleigh, and you learn how some of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles have made this city one of the most haunted spots in the South. As you wind through historic buildings, you’ll hear tales of ghostly sightings, mysterious deaths, and the spirits that still linger today. It’s the perfect way to mix history with a little fright—and you’ll get some great stories to take with you for the rest of the night. Tours meet at The State Capitol at 1 E. Morgan St.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll want to be able to make a quick getaway from any spirits!
Freaky Flicks at The Rialto Theatre: Round out your girls' night with a classic Halloween horror movie at The Rialto Theatre, Raleigh's beloved indie theater. Each October, they host special screenings of creepy classics—think "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” , "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," or even horror cult favorites like "Scream." It's the perfect low-key way to end the night while keeping the spooky vibes strong. 1620 Glenwood Ave.
Make it Fun: Go in costume, grab some popcorn, and have a mini photoshoot in front of the theater’s vintage sign to commemorate the night!
Pumpkin Spice Crawl: Kick off your day with a cozy fall flavor tour through downtown Raleigh! Grab your girls and sample all things pumpkin spice, from lattes to other seasonal desserts at local spots like The Morning Times, Sir Walter Coffee, and Heirloom. It’s the perfect way to warm up while indulging in all the autumn vibes before your spooky adventures begin.
Spice things up (even more): Snap some cute fall-themed photos with your drinks — all of our local shops have great spots for Instagram-worthy shots!
“Boos N’ Bass” at The Pour House Music Hall: For a mix of live music and Halloween fun, The Pour House is a fantastic spot. Thursday, October 31 at 8pm, they’re bringing the spooky energy at “Boos N’ Bass”, a perfect event for you and your girls to get dressed up and let the music bring out your inner Dancing Queen. Check out the event details below! 224 S. Blount St.
“Calling all Witches and Warlocks! This Halloween, summon your darkest dance moves for our BOOS n’ BASS bash! Our lineup of spellbinding DJs will enchant the night with a wicked mix of House, Techno, Riddim, Bass, and beyond. Dress to impress in your most hauntingly creative costumes and get ready for a night filled with eerie beats, spine-chilling surprises, and ghostly grooves.”
Bonus: They often serve Halloween-themed drinks, like the “Sin & Tonic”, adding an extra layer of festivity to the evening.
Final Tips for a Ghoulish Girls Night: Plan your night to hit a few of these spots, and don’t forget to embrace the Halloween spirit with costumes or spooky accessories. Whether you’re diving into Raleigh’s haunted history or just enjoying a ghostly-themed drink, this girls' night out will be one for the books. Ready to summon your ghouls?
Happy hauntings, ladies!