As Halloween approaches, Detroit-area families may be weighing whether Blake’s Big Apple haunted attractions in Armada are right for their kids.
With a haunted hayride, zombie paintball, a three-story haunted barn and a 3D maze called Spookyland, the farm mixes family fun with real scares, a balance that keeps parents talking each fall.
Haunted weekends: What’s open and when
Blake’s Haunted Attractions at Blake’s Big Apple in Armada runs from 6-11p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and from 6-10 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1, according to Blake Farms.
Daytime parts of Blake’s Big Apple, like the orchard, Funland, corn maze, play area and food venues, operate earlier in the day.
What attractions families can try
Blake’s offers four main Halloween attractions: the haunted hayride, zombie paintball, a three-story haunted barn and Spookyland, which includes a 3D maze, funhouse, corn maze and more.
The haunted hayride takes guests through dark woods filled with live actors, eerie lighting and sound effects designed to create jump scares.
Zombie paintball lets visitors board a custom trailer and use mounted paintball guns to fend off zombies along a set course.
The haunted barn features three floors of animatronics, strobe lights and actors popping out at every turn, while Spookyland offers a kid-friendly area with colorful 3D glasses, a mini maze and mild Halloween themes that younger children can enjoy without the frights, according to Blake Farms.
Ticket pricing ranges from about $17.95 to $84.95 depending on which combos and features you choose. For a family of four, combo tickets typically total around $160-$200 before food or extras.
Things parents should watch for
Because several attractions are quite intense, parental discretion is advised, especially for younger kids. Blake’s points out that the haunted barn is best for older kids (age 10+). Some parts like zombie paintball may be more suitable for families with braver children.
Wait times can increase on Saturday nights and closer to Halloween, so arriving early helps avoid long lines. Check weather conditions before heading out; in heavy rain or storms, parts of the attractions may close, according to Blake Farms.
Most haunted attractions include loud sounds, flashing lights and uneven ground, so they may not be suitable for sensory-sensitive children.
How to plan your visit
Start your outing in the afternoon by exploring the farm’s non-scary features: the orchard, fresh cider, donuts and play areas. Then return after dark for the haunted attractions.
Buying combo tickets can help with value if you plan to try more than one attraction, and checking online ticket sales in advance can help you avoid sellouts.
Why some families choose Blake’s
Blake’s is among the region’s accessible haunted options for Metro Detroit. The mix of daytime and nighttime offerings means families can adapt the visit to their kids’ comfort levels.
If you go, consider which attractions fit your child, arrive early, and treat it as part spooky night, part fall-festival outing.
Plan it
- Hours: 6-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 6-10 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1
- Location: Blake’s Big Apple, 71485 North Ave., Armada
- Cost: $17.95-$84.95 depending on combo packages
- Parking: Free onsite
- Accessibility: Outdoor terrain with uneven surfaces; stroller use limited after dark
- Best for: Ages 10 and up for haunted attractions; all ages for Spookyland
- Website: blakefarms.com
FAQ
What age is best for Blake’s haunted attractions?
Blake’s recommends the haunted barn and hayride for kids ages 10 and up. Spookyland is designed for all ages, with lighter Halloween themes and no jump scares.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Blake Farms encourages families to buy tickets online before arriving, especially on Saturdays and closer to Halloween when attractions often sell out.
Is it too scary for younger kids?
It depends on your child. The hayride and haunted barn include loud noises, flashing lights and actors who jump out suddenly. If your kids are sensitive to those effects, Spookyland is a safer pick.
Does the event run if it rains?
According to Blake Farms, attractions remain open in light rain but may close temporarily during storms or heavy weather.
Can families visit during the day?
Yes. The orchard, Funland, corn maze and cider mill are open earlier in the day for families who want to enjoy non-scary fall activities before the haunted attractions begin.
Updated October 2025
