ScareHouse is one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic haunted attractions, renowned for its immersive and terrifying experiences. Founded in 1999 by Scott Simmons and Wayne Simmons, ScareHouse started as a small, community-driven haunt but quickly grew into a nationally recognized destination for horror enthusiasts. Its success stems from its attention to detail, innovative storytelling, and highly skilled design and acting teams.
The original ScareHouse was located in Etna, just outside of Pittsburgh. The building, a former Elks Lodge, provided the perfect eerie setting with its creaking floors and dark, twisting hallways. This venue became famous for its layered, atmospheric scares, blending psychological horror with elaborate sets and high-quality special effects. Early on, ScareHouse differentiated itself by avoiding the traditional jump-scare approach, instead crafting immersive narratives that transported visitors into different terrifying worlds.
By the early 2000s, ScareHouse had already gained significant traction, appearing in national publications and media outlets. In 2010, it was featured in Travel Channel’s “America’s Scariest Halloween Attractions,” cementing its reputation as one of the top haunted houses in the country. The haunt also caught the attention of filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, who praised ScareHouse for its creativity and craftsmanship.
One of ScareHouse’s most notorious attractions was “The Basement,” an extreme, interactive experience that pushed the boundaries of fear and discomfort. Launched in 2013, The Basement required guests to sign waivers, as actors could touch and physically engage with participants. This experience catered to thrill-seekers looking for a more intense and personalized scare.
ScareHouse’s design team drew inspiration from Pittsburgh’s rich industrial and paranormal history, weaving local legends and ghost stories into the haunt’s themes. Over the years, different sections of the attraction explored everything from twisted circus themes to demonic rituals and haunted hospitals.
In 2019, ScareHouse left its original location in Etna due to structural and logistical challenges. After a temporary stint at the Pittsburgh Mills mall, ScareHouse found a new home in a larger, more modern space, allowing the team to expand and reimagine their haunted experiences. The new location, while different from the historic Elks Lodge, retained ScareHouse’s signature eerie atmosphere and immersive design.
ScareHouse’s reputation has continued to grow, with collaborations that extend beyond Halloween. The team has worked on various horror-themed events, escape rooms, and seasonal pop-ups throughout Pittsburgh, maintaining their presence in the local entertainment scene year-round.
Today, ScareHouse stands as a testament to Pittsburgh’s love for horror and immersive storytelling. Its blend of artistry, technology, and psychological horror continues to captivate audiences, making it a must-visit destination each Halloween season. Whether through nostalgic tributes to classic horror films or original, spine-chilling concepts, ScareHouse remains a leader in the haunted attraction industry.
