Somewhere in Hillsboro, a family has decided that one haunted room simply isn’t enough. They’ve created eight of them, filled the place with horror movie characters, and invited the public to come experience the whole thing.
And they’re not charging a penny.
Killin Time Haunts is bringing its family-run haunted maze to downtown Hillsboro for five nights this October. The attraction features eight horror movie-themed rooms, live scare actors, and enough creepy surprises to satisfy just about anyone who enjoys Halloween.
But there’s something about this particular haunted maze that caught my attention. Visitors can request a no-scare walkthrough, making it possible for families to experience the attraction without the full fright treatment.
For parents whose children love Halloween but aren’t quite ready for someone to jump out from behind a curtain, that’s a pretty interesting option.
Eight Rooms of Halloween Fun
This year’s theme is “Killin Time Video,” with eight rooms inspired by horror movies. Visitors will move through the maze while encountering live actors and Halloween decorations.
The attraction is being organized by Killin Time Haunts, a family-run operation that has created a Halloween experience for the community.
I particularly appreciate that admission is free. Haunted attractions can get expensive, especially when you’re buying tickets for an entire family. Spending $100 or more for an evening of getting frightened isn’t everyone’s idea of a good investment.
Here, families can enjoy the experience without worrying about admission costs. That’s a welcome change during a season when seemingly every fall activity comes with another price tag.
What About Kids Who Don’t Like Being Scared?
This is where the no-scare option becomes especially useful.
Not every child enjoys being startled. Some kids love creepy decorations and spooky characters but want absolutely nothing to do with someone suddenly screaming in their face.
And frankly, I know a few adults who feel the same way.
Killin Time Haunts offers a no-scare walkthrough for visitors who prefer to skip the frightening interactions. Families can ask about this option when they arrive.
Of course, parents should still use their judgment. The attraction contains horror movie-themed rooms, and even without active scares, some decorations or characters could be unsettling for younger children.
If your child is frightened by Halloween masks in the grocery store, this might not be the best first haunted attraction. But for kids who are curious about haunted houses and want to try something a little spooky, having a less intense option could make all the difference.
It’s also a nice way for families with children of different ages to participate. One child might want the full experience, while another would rather enjoy the decorations without being startled.
There’s a Way to Give Back, Too
Although admission is completely free, the organizers are collecting canned food donations for the Oregon Food Bank.
Donations are optional, and families don’t need to bring anything to enter. Still, if you have a few extra canned goods in the pantry, this is a simple opportunity to support a good cause while enjoying a Halloween outing.
It’s also something parents can involve their children in before leaving home. Let them help choose a few items to donate and explain how those contributions can help families in the community.
Halloween is usually about collecting things, so it’s nice to have an opportunity to give something back.
When and Where Can Families Visit?
The haunted maze will be held at the Hillsboro Masonic Lodge, located at 176 NE 2nd Avenue in downtown Hillsboro.
The attraction is scheduled for five nights:
Saturday, October 24: 6 to 9 p.m.
Sunday, October 25: 6 to 9 p.m.
Thursday, October 29: 6 to 9 p.m.
Friday, October 30: 6 to 9 p.m.
Saturday, October 31: 5 to 9 p.m.
That gives families several opportunities to visit, including Halloween itself.
I’d recommend checking the official event information before heading out, especially if you’re planning to visit with younger children and want to confirm how the no-scare option works.
You can find the schedule and additional details through the Hillsboro Downtown Partnership’s official event listing.
A Halloween Adventure That Doesn’t Cost a Fortune
One thing I love about community events like this is that they give families another way to celebrate Halloween without spending a ridiculous amount of money.
Not everyone wants to visit an enormous haunted attraction with expensive tickets and hours of waiting. Sometimes, a smaller neighborhood experience can be just as memorable.
And there’s something particularly charming about a family putting together eight haunted rooms and then inviting everyone to experience them for free.
Whether your kids want to be frightened or would rather take the no-scare route, Killin Time Haunts is worth considering for your Halloween plans.
Just remember to ask about the less frightening walkthrough before entering. Nobody wants to discover halfway through the maze that their child has decided Halloween is officially canceled.
Tiffany Wilson is a 42-year-old stay-at-home mom from Tigard, Oregon, raising three kids—Sophie, Noah, and Riley. She’s a warm, hands-on parent who mixes daily routines with creative fun, whether it’s a backyard scavenger hunt or building a blanket fort in the living room.