Historic sites like former prisons and asylums were the sites of real-life horrors. Halloween can mean needed revenue, but also ethical questions.

The rankings were based on metrics such as the number of costume stores per capita, crime rates and the best potential trick-or-treat stops on Halloween night.

Looking for a dose of Halloween magic in Boston? While Salem’s spooky history often steals the spotlight, there’s no need to travel north for some haunted fun. From eerie tours to creative parties, Boston boasts plenty of its own goosebump-worthy happenings.