The Haunted Hydro Review (2015)

Final Score9.09/10
8 categories scored
Scariness
High IntensityHigh Intensity
Runtime90 minutes
MPD 3.60
TouchPossible

Summary

Haunted Hydro is in its 26th year. It is operated by Bob and Beth Turner, their daughter, Kaitlin and many dedicated employees and volunteers. The set changes yearly to keep things interesting, and every year there are major improvements. From time to time, they hit a few rough spots, but they seem to be able to handle them and come out the better for them.

Cast9.17

It is obvious that the actors are well trained; they are alert to the needs of the guests and interact well. They achieve their frights and stay in character. Some actors are well seasoned. Their characters are well-developed and they easily pull off a good fright. I have read some critical remarks about the actors getting a little over enthusiastic and being too extreme, especially for younger visitors. We did not see this on the night we visited. I believe the Turners reinforce training and try to stay on top of actors’ behavior or effects that are not working out… Read More…

Costuming8.8

I saw no cheap masks or shabby costuming. Characters were well made up, exceptional in most cases, but very good in others.

Customer Service9.48

With the aid of today’s technology, GPS, we had no trouble finding the Haunted Hydro. Directions are also on the website. The haunted attraction is easily identifiable from the road. It is well lit with a large facade of towers and gargoyles. The parking area is more than adequate with security and staff to assist in parking.

Atmosphere8.47

Did the atmosphere outside prepare you for what was inside? No, inside was absolutely awesome, so that is a good thing!

Special Effects9.43

Out of all the questions we answered to come with the scores for each category, we gave two 10s; one was in staff members being friendly, helpful and easy to find. The other 10 was in impressive effects. My favorite room was a total black out hall and room. Initially we were surprised by an actor up high, and then plunged into absolute darkness. After feeling our way around, suddenly a low lit area just appeared. I swear it wasn’t there before. A ‘how did they do that?’ moment.

Theme8.68

When the doors open, there is a pre show of ‘Ghoulabration’ dancers. The program is somewhat mediocre, but a few of the performers are exceptionally funny and entertaining which helps with the over-all entertainment value. I consider this more of a distraction while Mr. Turner explains how things work, and the actors get ready without it looking like instructions or preparation time. The theme is about the Hydro of the past, when it was a water treatment plant. It leaves the actors pretty open, but the room d������������������cor fits well.

Scare Factor9.22

Small groups are sent through. All members of the group get equal attention. There is no rush job. You have the time to enjoy the room designs and to explore the effects. They have a new program called ‘Shock Collar’. It is to experience an extreme haunt encounter. We chose not to go quite that extreme. I believe you have to eat something disgusting and suffer some disgusting smells which most of us were not interested in, but we did crawl inside a real casket, was shut in and rolled down a slope. This was pretty awesome, but may not… Read More…

Entertainment & Value9.5

Tickets can be purchased in advance. If you buy your tickets at a local service/gas station, there is a $3.00 discount. There are also coupons available for a $2.00 discount at the door. Buying ahead eliminates waiting in long lines. You can purchase Freak Pass combo tickets that include admission to both the Haunted Hydro & Carni-ville of Freaks for $20.00. A super-sized Freak Pass option is available for $25.00 and includes admission to the Haunted Hydro, Carni-ville of Freaks, Torture Chamber Escape Room and 1 FREE hit on the Haunted Hooptie! VIP front of the line upgrades are available… Read More…

Know Before You Go

  • Escape Rooms
  • Food/Concessions
  • Gift Shop/Souvenirs
  • Indoor/Outdoor
  • Original Characters
  • Restrooms/Porta Potties On-Site
  • Special Events
  • Uncovered Outdoor Waiting Line

Watch Our Walkthrough

Youtube video

Awards

2024Shout out Award(2024 – Team Cleaverland)Loogie aka Chace Heath
2024Haunt AwardMost Fun Experience: Extreme Pass (2024 – Team Cleaverland)
2020Haunt AwardBest Historical Extra (2020 – Team Cleaverland)
2020Haunt AwardMost Unique Timing (2020 – Team Cleaverland)

Make It a Night: Nearby Reviewed Haunts

Guest Reviews

Guest Review by John Smith

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Visited: 10/13/2017 | Recommended: ✅ Yes

What They Liked Most:
On Friday the 13th a couple had their wedding/reception at The Haunted Hydro, and we’re the first groups to go through the haunt in the blackout night... Read More

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