I readily admit I really wasn't entering into the idea of visiting The Haunted Barn with any high expectations. I figured, what exactly could possibly be done to a family barn that would result in a truly remarkable experience?

Then we arrived at the farm.

There is no problem locating The Haunted Barn even though it is out in the un-street-lit country. In addition to a large lighted sign announcing that you have indeed arrived, the volume of cars turning into the driveway 15 minutes before it even opened was my first clue that this may be better than I hoped. Ample parking was provided in a large mown area.

My husband and I were fortunate to head straight to the entry line; before the 7pm opening a line formed that wove out into the dark farm. The overview of rules given by the witch as you enter is a very good idea as you can also ask her any questions you may have. From there, the tour is mostly self-guided, which did cause us to catch up to the small children ahead of us, but didn't cause any annoying stops. Along the way, you will encounter many well-known horror icons (Freddy, Jason, etc) and many children who do a great job of remaining creepy and not breaking character. There are also some children who are athletic enough to leap from the rafters and land right next to you. In addition, the actors have passageways that allow them to pop up on you again; just because you've left their room doesn't mean they won't be around the corner!

From the barn, you are led to the Blood Shed, which, while still sufficiently gory, benefits more from the tight angles keeping you from seeing what is ahead than the actual contents. Except for the kitchen. That is awesome.

The walk into the woods to the graveyard is a bit long, but actors along the way serve two purposes: they help keep the mood going and also provide some degree of guidance as to which way to go. By all means, take a moment at the top to check out the graveyard... there's nothing in the shack. Just kidding, the teenage girl behind me wouldn't let go of my arm after that. I wonder who she was?

From here, the trail leads you back to the parking area, but don't let yourself be fooled into think it's all over. The chainsaw-toting mainiac was already at a dead run at us before the saw's engine fired up.

Between the concessions offered, gift shop provided, music, lights and other "entertainment" aside from the tour itself, this is quite a production. As we left, we noted the line was even longer than when we started, and cars were still coming down the highway. In a small town like Stoughton, if the product isn't worth the time and $8.00 admission, The Haunted Barn would quickly become a real ghost town.

I highly recommend taking the time to see this.