Brookdale Haunted Theater

Brookdale Haunted Theater in Lincroft, New Jersey, is a premier Halloween attraction, celebrated for over two decades as one of Monmouth County’s scariest and most immersive haunted experiences, consistently voted Best Overall Attraction by NewJerseyHauntedHouses.com. Located at Brookdale Community College’s Performing Arts Center, this indoor, self-guided haunted house transforms the entire theater into a 15- to 20-minute labyrinth of horror, designed and operated by over 100 students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community members. Unlike traditional theater shows, guests actively walk through a maze of interconnected, themed rooms, each filled with intricate sets, chilling special effects, and high-energy scares. Notable scenes include a disorienting elevator simulation, a black-and-white room with eerie visuals, and a time-travel-themed hotel setup with detailed props like flickering chandeliers and blood-soaked corridors. Over 50 actors, trained through summer auditions, deliver intense, interactive performances, portraying characters like the fan-favorite Addy, who greets guests with unsettling charisma, and Sister Mary, known for her terrifying presence. The haunt’s atmosphere is amplified by professional lighting, fog, strobe effects, and dynamic soundscapes, creating a cinematic horror experience. Standout features include pitch-black zones and sudden jump scares, with actors using the theater’s architecture to maximize suspense. A family-friendly Scaredy Cat tour offers a “lights-on” experience with no jump scares, where friendly actors distribute candy and share behind-the-scenes insights, ideal for younger visitors, though the main haunt’s intensity makes it unsuitable for children under 8. The queue area features food trucks and concessions, enhancing the festive vibe, while proceeds support the college’s theater program, including productions like Summer Shakespeare. Due to the complex layout and intense scares, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues. With its creative storytelling, community-driven spirit, and professional execution, Brookdale Haunted Theater offers an unforgettable Halloween adventure for thrill-seekers.