The Slaughterhouse in Des Moines is a must-visit for thrill-seekers looking for a long, engaging, immersive haunted attraction. The haunt’s immersion was impressive, with detailed sets, props, and special effects like animatronics and unsettling smells that created a fully immersive environment. Cast performances were solid, and they interacted with guests effectively. Whether you’re a fan of all things spooky or just someone looking for a great Halloween scare, The Slaughterhouse will leave you with wonderfully terrifying memories.
The Slaughterhouse cast was a solid group of actors. They kept in character and added to the atmosphere without being unrealistically dramatic. They interacted with guests in an unsettling and appropriate way to match each scene.
Stand-out cast members were the ones working the queue line. They were quickly able to read the crowd and pick the perfect person to scare. They also knew how to handle the challenging, disrespectful haunt-goers with ease. Utilizing their character to engage and distract rather than react to them. Overall, the actors helped enhance the experience by creating a fun and still scary vibe.
How complete, unique, detailed were the costumes, accessories? – (35% of score)
Were the masks, makeup creative, detailed, realistic? – (30% of score)
How appropriate were the costumes for the respective scenes, themes? – (20% of score)
How believable-, detailed-looking were the queue actors? (See Note if N/A) – (15% of score)
The Slaughterhouse delivered a solid performance with well-executed costumes. The outfits fit each themed areas appropriately, with plenty of bloodied and distressed clothing, and menacing makeup and masks. They were effective in setting the tone. While none of the costumes stood out as especially unique or innovative, they were good and helped enhance the spooky atmosphere.
How easy was it to locate, park at, navigate the premises? – (25% of score)
Safety (Only dock points for TRULY DANGEROUS hazards!) – (30% of score)
How professional, helpful, friendly were the staff members? – (25% of score)
How easy was it to find pertinent information before arrival? – (20% of score)
The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction had very good customer service. Staff members were friendly, helpful, and efficient throughout our visit. From the moment we arrived, they made sure we felt welcome and answered any questions we had with clarity.
The queue line management was also effective. Inside the haunt, their team maintained a safe yet frightening environment. We felt safe while still being immersed in the haunt. We did encounter a few minor challenges, however.
One was that it was hard to find parking information before our visit. It caused us some initial confusion when we arrived. The additional challenges were more like disappointments. Slaughterhouse has a “scare cam,” but unfortunately, it wasn’t working properly. Others in our group were able to purchase photos of their scare moment. For some reason, the camera did not capture the part of our group that we were in.
We were also looking forward to buying a t-shirt of the haunt. There were many great designs, but sadly, most sizes were sold out. It was explained to us that the majority of what they were selling was from previous seasons, so they had no additional stock. Overall, though, the experience was fun and well-managed.
How well did the pre-haunt areas ("vibe") prepare you for the attraction/s? – (25% of score)
How obvious, creative, believable was the storyline? (See Note if N/A) – (20% of score)
Were you completely, consistently immersed inside the attraction/s? – (40% of score)
How well did the "vibe" flow after, between the attraction/s? – (15% of score)
The Slaughterhouse is in the basement of a building downtown. Due to the location, the pre-haunt area is small, but the brick architecture and entrance down a dark alley are a perfect fit.
From the moment you step into The Slaughterhouse, you’re transported into a dark, cold dominion. The use of confined spaces, scents, elaborate sets, and props add to the experience. Each room has its unique design. This haunt made us feel like we were constantly moving deeper into a shadowy place.
The themes within the haunt changed a few times, but the transitions were seamless. The attention to detail is outstanding—everything from the sets to the costumes worked together to immerse haunt goers fully in the gruesome world.
How effective were the sound effects? – (20% of score)
How realistic were the scene designs, details? – (30% of score)
How effective, realistic were the props, animatronics? – (30% of score)
How well did they use creative, special, sensory effects? – (20% of score)
The special effects at The Slaughterhouse were stellar. There was a mix of animatronics (some enormous), realistic props, scents, and set pieces that worked together to create an atmosphere of fear. The effects were well-timed. On two occasions, we were completely caught off guard: once when we were shot with snake venom and the other when we were sprayed with either something resembling urine or (hopefully not) feces. In certain areas, there were also distinct smells that added to realism.
(SPOILER ALERT) The most memorable part of Slaughterhouse for us was the mining cart ride. Not long after entering the haunt, our group was escorted by the undead into creepy, broken mining carts. These zombie guides pushed us slowly along a track leading to a variety of different frightening chambers until we reached our next realm. Outside of theme parks, I had never seen anything like this attempted. Kudos to the Slaughterhouse team for successfully creating a” next-level” addition to their haunt.
How scary was it? – (35% of score)
How well did they provide scares to everyone in the group? – (15% of score)
How predictable were the scares? – (25% of score)
How well did they provide a wide variety (types) of scares? – (10% of score)
How strong was the ending / finale? – (15% of score)
The Slaughterhouse delivered a scary and creative experience that kept us on our toes. The scares were cleverly designed, plentiful, varied, and had unexpected twists.
Whether it was jump scares or experiential scares, this haunt offered something for everyone in our group. This haunt was one of the longest single haunts we have ever been through. The layout felt never-ending, making us feel vulnerable. Just when we thought we might be nearing the end, a new section opened before us. For those who love a good fright, The Slaughterhouse doesn’t disappoint—it’s a frightening adventure.
How satisfied with the entertainment provided by the MAIN attraction/s? – (50% of score)
How satisfied with OTHER entertainment INCLUDED with the ticket price? – (25% of score)
How appropriate is/are the ticket price/s? – (25% of score)
The Slaughterhouse offered an impressively long haunt. It took us over 23 minutes, and with tickets starting at $30, we got a lot of bang for our buck. For a reasonable price, the experience felt extended, with numerous rooms and scares that kept us engaged throughout.
However, aside from the haunt, the only things to experience were a merchandise area and some fun photo opportunities. More entertainment and activities could have enhanced the overall experience. Despite this, the value of this extended attraction alone made it a worthwhile visit for horror fans.
500 Locust Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309