Screamtober Saturday @ Awaken!
Outstanding Review from Hauntfinder, New Liquor License, Screamtober, & More
Hello Awaken Fans,
October is here, and we open the doors again tonight! We can’t wait to see you at Awaken!
Plenty of fun new changes, amazing actors, and horror movie level scenes make Awaken the most exciting haunted attraction in Michigan! You and your friends have got to experience it for yourselves!
Outstanding Review from The HauntFinder General
We were fortunate to have one of the best haunt reviewers out there visit us a few weeks ago. Check out The HauntFinder General's write-up and recommendation for our very own Awaken Haunted Attraction.
From the HauntFinder General:
“Awaken Haunted Attraction (Leslie, MI)- My third stop during my evening in MI resided about 20 min or so south of Lansing on the outskirts of town. It had been a full 7 years since my last visit, but I’d been meaning to make it back to Awaken ever since. While 2017 was only their second year open, they’d already shown great promise and managed to do in that short time what many are unable to accomplish in a decade or more. So it was only a matter of time before I found my way back.
Saturday Sept. 14th was the day (their 2nd day open for the season), and it appeared I’d picked a good day to drop by. The place was absolutely dead at 9:30 when I arrived. It appeared I’d have the whole joint to myself.
Assorted guest celebrity appearance banners adorned the exterior of the building (which looks deceptively small from the outside), along with their Friday the 13th grand opening day. From what I could recall, the place looked vaguely familiar. But I’m sure a lot had changed on the inside since I’d been away.
I had the woman at the ticket window out front radio owner Brian who happened to be nearby. He popped outside moments later and led me inside via their all-new queue line area and inner entrance queue area. Ofcourse they were completely empty at the time, but Brian informed me they’d had a highly respectable turnout the night before for their opening night (as well as earlier that evening). That seemed the case with many attractions that particular weekend. Everyone came out Friday, and Saturday was generally dead all over. Mid-September is always a weird time for places as most folks don’t start thinking about Halloween for at least a few weeks yet.
Brian gave me a bit of info on what they’d been up to in the many years since I’d been there last. They’d enclosed the entire inner queue area (which used to be surrounded by all glass windows), and worked in some sci-fi/alien theme as the introductory section (the first of 4) to their attraction. I must say, it definitely looked like these guys have sunk some time and money into the place, as it looked leagues more impressive than I remembered it. And while this was all well and good, I was most interested in seeing what they’d done to the attraction itself. So I was sent inside straight away without further ado.
Incidentally, admission here was $25 ($35 fast pass)-only $5 more than it was in 2017. It appeared inflation hadn’t affected these guys all that much. But in a market as saturated as the one in Michigan, haunted attractions really need to remain competitively priced. So hats off to these guys for remaining affordable all these years later.
I was led inside the attraction by a zombified doctor's assistant actress and told to watch a short safety video courtesy of an LED monitor on the wall across from me. This was interrupted by a fellow with a bionic arm prop (or something) opening the door suddenly and telling me to follow him into the next room-which happened to be an office. I was told to stand by the front desk, where a phone began ringing. They then answered the phone and a side entrance door opened up, revealing the way into the attraction. A very clever, and surprisingly well-thought out introduction here. I saw more creativity in this intro alone than most entire attractions!
The first attraction here seemed to be based entirely on Area 51 subject matter which, while not terribly exciting, wound up being unexpectedly fun. Lots of industrial-looking passageways littered with alien props, incubation containers, and even a great visual with an alien creature behind glass. The autopsy room even reeked of rotting meat. But the best prop of this relatively short section was the animated alien figure that came shooting out of a dark crevice near the end. I think I may have even jumped a slight bit. Nice job!
The 3D section ("Terror Phobia") featured yet another variation on the done-to-death clown/circus theme. And while I'd had about all I could take of this sort of thing at my last stop that night, this one wasn't bad. And it was short-most importantly. So the clowns didn't overstay their welcome.
Basically the same stuff you see in pretty much every funhouse-themed haunt: spinning vortex tunnel, black light illuminated sets, colorful wall illustrations and props. But like I said, it was short and left very little to complain about. However, this theme would be revisited later on, and to much better effect...
"The Forgotten", Awaken's 3rd section, introduced a darker and more sinister vibe. And this was the point where things really took off for me here. Things began with what I told Brian later was one of the creepiest series of scenes I'd seen all season so far. I passed through an attic witch's lair, and a cult-like room circled with eerie animated children figures that moved their heads from side to side. Very creepy! The mansion themes continued with spider props leaping out from a fireplace in a living room set as well.
I was surprised when the attraction led outside into a killer graveyard sequence , where I encountered the most engaging actor of the production thus far. This grave digger fellow, who was clutching a giant, oversized hatchet immediately launched into a colorful and accent-laden diatribe while leading me along the rest of the way through the section. I loved the crazy red-eyed skeleton prop perched on his back as well. Actors like this really know how to elevate a show.
But the trailer park guy I ran into just beyond there was utterly hilarious! As I rounded a corner just beyond the cemetery gates, I ran smack into a full-blown mobile home parked along the edge of the trail ahead with a totally comedic looking redneck feller standing before me. His quick-talking hillbilly banter was quite humorous, as he attempted to sell me assorted pieces of junk that were littering the lawn around us, including a child's tricycle and rocking horse. Also, a shout-out to the monkey-faced shrub guy that came rampaging out of the vegetation here. This attraction had never featured an outdoor section before. But wow! What a great addition!
I tried getting a quick photo of a hillbilly shack facade but a camouflaged fellow slumped over in a canoe there scolded me for it. Hence why I took so few pictures while there. Guess you'll just have to go and see for yourself!
I'm not quite sure where their 4th feature here began ("Tenebrous"), but I'm pretty sure the pig maze was a primary feature here. Here, a pig-masked individual appeared at the end of long corridor and silently walked away. A very ominous visual amidst the flickering strobe lights. Ofcourse this fellow reappeared shortly thereafter, following behind me emitting bizarre oinking sounds. And this was set to a cycling pig squealing soundtrack playing in the background. This guy continued tailing me for what felt like forever (this part may have gone on for just a tad too long), as I wound my way around the series of outdoor maze passages. I kept waiting for something else to happen, but nothing ever did. Ah well...
Just beyond there, things continued with a teddy bear-headed chainsaw fellow that told me I smelled Amish (he obviously knew who I was and where I live -Lancaster area PA). He briefly broke character and said the fact that I was going through solo was a "dead giveaway". He even knew I was last there in 2017. This dude really did his homework!
So while these last few previous sections were a bit of a low point for me, this was instantly made up for in the absolutely amazing green laser fog swamp section. I'm pretty sure this was supposed to be a toxic waste themed area. But the descending ramp through the doorway of a some town building that led into a swirling green chamber of madness was off the hook visually! A fellow in black perched above proceeded to rip off his face, revealing a gory skull beneath was awesome. Not to mention the machine here that had the whole set filled with floating bubbles. What a cool set! Easily another of my favorites here.
Things reverted back to clown themes at the very end. Not entirely sure why, but they did. But this section did NOT disappoint! Quite the contrary. I encountered two young actresses at the entrance to some large circus tent set ahead that asked if I wanted "party with the clowns"-whatever that meant. One had a party favor she kept blowing in my ear, while the other kept staring at me through some weird buck-toothed rabbit mask.
"Sure," I sighed. I mean, what other choice did I have?
I ventured forth into the open area ahead and was suddenly bombarded by honking and yelling clown characters coming at me from every angle. I know I'm not the biggest fan of clown themes these days, but this was a great (and wildly disorienting) finale.
The entire show lasted 16 minutes. And while it wasn't without it's shortcomings, the good stuff here was absolutely great! The overall level of detail, special effects, and sequencing was quite good here. I loved the creepy mansion sets, outdoor section (first half anyway), and toxic waste area. And even the actors (well, most of them anyway) were very good. A few of the younger ones, including the high-pitched screamer girls, didn't do much for me. But the rest made up for it no doubt.
I ran into Brian again over by their all-new "Creepcessions" gift shop and gushed about all the parts I loved in there. Seriously, this place made some major improvements over the last 7 years. It was amazing to see such a promising new haunt blossom into a thing of greatness before my very eyes. To see where they were last and where they are now is truly remarkable.
Easily one of the most-improved attractions I've witnessed this season so far. You owe it to yourself to check out this forward-thinking haunt if you crave something a little different than your run-of-the-mill neighborhood haunted house. I can't even imagine where this place will be at the next time I pay them a visit. But rest assured I won't be waiting another 7 years to find out. That's for sure!
Thanks again to Brian for a) being open so early in the season so I could finally come back, and b) all the generosity and hospitality. It was greatly appreciated by a road-weary traveler such as myself. I wish these guys all the success in the world and do hope this review finds its way in front of the right eyes. As you should know by now, I would never steer you wrong!”
Hauntfinder Rating: 3.5 stars out of 4.0
Cold Beers and Drinks at Awaken?
That’s right! Now you can enjoy a cold beer at Awaken! Awaken has acquired a liquor license, so you and your friends can now grab a tall cool one while you wait for the excitement to begin.
Okay, he’s not drinking a beer, but we think the mood is right.
Of course, you have to be of legal drinking age and meet all of the legal drinking requirements. In addition, we will be limiting consumption to make sure that we are in complete compliance with the State of Michigan. We’ll also probably have limited choices at first, but look for more offerings as we gain experience.
Awaken Presents Screamtober!
Along with our exciting haunted attraction filled with new twists and turns, Awaken is paying homage to the movie Scream all October long. With celebrity guests, Scream photo ops and other themed Scream fun, you’ll be sure to have a great time! So, if you’re a Scream fan or not, you’ll want to visit Awaken this Halloween season for an outstanding time.
Lee Waddell, the Original Ghostface
October 11th-12th-13th - Awaken hosts its first celebrity guest of the season! Lee Waddell the original Ghostface from the 1996 horror classic movie "SCREAM" will join us for 3 nights! Lee will be available to sign autographs, talk and answer questions, and take selfies throughout the weekend.
The “Bathroom Girls”
October 18th-19th-*20th - Awaken continues our Screamtober with the "Bathroom Girls" from 1996 horror classic movie "SCREAM"! Nancy Anne Ridder and Leonora Scelfo will be visiting Awaken October 18th, 19th and 20th! The ladies will be available to sign autographs, talk and answer questions, and take selfies throughout the weekend. They will even have in costume Photo Ops Saturday the 19th!
As always, you will need a standard and/or FastPass ticket to enter Awaken for all of our celebrity appearances. Over the years, Awaken has had numerous requests for actors from SCREAM and we have listened. Our Screamtober is going to be fantastic fun, you won’t want to miss it!
Awaken’s Screamtober Schedule!
October 4th-5th - October arrives and we’re now open on Friday and Saturday nights. Doors open a little earlier at 7:30pm! Kick off the first week of October at Awaken!
October 11th-12th-13th - The Frights and Fun continue as Awaken hosts its first celebrity guest of the season. Lee Waddell, the original Ghostface from the 1996 horror classic movie "SCREAM" will be visiting Awaken October 11th, 12th and 13th! Awaken has had numerous requests for actors from SCREAM and we have listened. More info on the meet and greet guidelines at on our website. You will need a ticket to enter the venue. Doors now open at 7pm, and we’re open on Sundays. The season and the scares are getting more and more fun!
October 18th-19th-20th - The "Bathroom Girls" from 1996 horror classic movie "SCREAM" pay Awaken a visit! Nancy Anne Ridder and Leonora Scelfo, will be special guests at Awaken October 18th, 19th and 20th! In costume Photo Ops Saturday the 19th, you will need a ticket to enter the venue. Come out, go through Awaken, meet the girls and get your merchandise signed!
October 25th-26th-27th - Halloween is almost upon us. The fun is only getting crazier! Awaken is open all weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday!
November 1st-2nd Awaken remains open for one last November weekend! Enjoy some exciting fun one last time before the season ends.
Looking For A Screaming, Fun Time for Your Large Group?
Looking for a fun and unique Halloween Themed Event for your Group? Want to get together for an office party, birthday, special occasion or just looking for some fun and excitement? Awaken has an incredible experience ready for you!
What You’ll Experience:
Start your night with your group in Awaken’s exclusive Party Room. Take a turn in our 5-minute escape room, enjoy some photo ops, play a video game or two, socialize and enjoy our memorable and macabre displays.
Then, as the sun wanes, and the night begins, get first in line for Awaken’s highly rated haunt experience. Enter in smaller groups for your own unique experience, and get ready for some good times and terror. You’ll laugh, scream and cry with fun as your group ventures through our highly rated Awaken Haunted Attraction!
Why Awaken?
Awaken Haunt is the perfect place for your next corporate event or custom outing. Whether it’s a business event, a birthday party, Halloween party or a unique, cool custom event for clients, customers or colleagues, our attraction offers a variety of settings, seating options and scary activities from which to choose. Let us help you customize a Halloween haunting or a fun anytime experience to fit any budget, any business or any age group.
We’re Easy to Find
Located 20 minutes south of Lansing and 12 minutes north of Jackson, directly off highway 127, we’re an easy drive for south central Michigan, northern Ohio and northern Indiana.
More Details
Corporate and custom packages are available for parties of minimum 25 people up to max 60. We can customize a plan or party for any sized company or customer segment to meet your individual needs with advance notice. Private tents and/or catering are available on request ( additional charges may apply)
In order to accommodate your needs, we require that tickets for large groups and custom events be purchased at least one (2) week in advance.
An Exclusive Experience for You and Your Friends!
Enjoy a premier exclusive experience at Awaken with you and your friends and officemates as ONLY YOUR GROUP is allowed to book our party room per open night during the Halloween season and/or special off-season events open to the public. Groups must be between 25 and 60 guests (larger groups can also be accommodated by contacting us awakenhaunt@gmail.com
Your group will arrive at Awakens Party Room between 5pm and 7pm and our Awaken party room is available to you exclusively for that time. If setup is needed, early entry is available at 4pm. Have fun playing our virtual pinball / arcade game, with over 900 games or try out our 5-minute escape room, taking photo ops with friends, browsing out Creepcessions, checking out our exhibits and just hanging out. We provide a 100" movie projection screen and two video screens with your company logo or event name. We also have a Audio system more music streaming along with a mic for announcements. Inside the Party room you can bring any type of drinks and food and party with your friends or co-workers.
Finally, at 7pm the lights go down and your group gets first in line for Awaken’s highly rated haunt experience. Enter in smaller groups for your own unique experience, and get ready for some good times and terror. You’ll laugh, scream and cry with fun as your group ventures through our highly rated Awaken Haunted Attraction!
Difficulties With Uber
We love students that come from all over the state to visit Awaken. But, if you’re taking an Uber to Awaken, please realize that, while we’re close to Lansing and Jackson, we’re a little off the beaten path. Uber drivers will often drop you off at our location, but it can be very difficult to get a return ride from them.
So, if you plan on being dropped off by an Uber, you should make sure that you have other arrangements to return home. Maybe a roommate or other college friend can come and pick you up. Maybe a relative would love to see you and take you home. Do not rely on Uber or other taxi service unless you’ve somehow lined them up ahead of time.
We do not want to find you hanging out in our parking lot, desperate for a ride as we start to shut down.
Our Newsletter
For the latest in off-season special events, celebrity appearances, Halloween season and more, please subscribe to our newsletter.
Expect to see our newsletter about every month during the off-season and weekly when October begins to get close.