Report:
We went last night. We choose this venue because Spooky Woods or Wood Of Terror were too intense for the group of kids we had ages 9-12. None of which are super brave.
First off the drive. You take mostly Hwy 66 and while it was too hard to get there, Mapquest didn't seem to exactly agree with the directions. Mainly the distance of how far you take a certain road. But that wasn't a big deal. If you wanted easier, take 40 to 158 and then 158 north. Will add a few minutes to your drive but much easier ride home, especially at 1am (keeping reading)
The wait. We got there at 9:30 which was a big mistake. We waited almost 3 hours. We were told Friday nights get you through the line quicker. We were some of the last people to show up and get in a long line. However, the price was pretty good and if we decided to bail out of line and come back another time, full ticket refund, no questions asked. That was very cool.
Entertainment while in line. The kids we had met some other new friends and the Grim Reaper and Skull dude they had roaming the grounds were entertaining and kept the kids spooked or laughing. So the adults took turns holding the place in line.
Sponsors. This event is run by a biker gang. OK well, Honda Gold Wing riders.
http://www.winstonwings.org/ Very nice group of older fellows. Do lots of charity events and raise money. The head organizers came through the lines to greet everyone and make sure all were having a good time. That was a nice touch. All profits get donated to the group of choice. depending the biggest current need. I can't remember what they said last years was. This year was the food bank.
Eats: Food they had was basic but was pretty darn good. Chili dogs, chips, sodas, home made chicken stew. Prices weren't too bad. $5 got you 2 dogs and a drink. Friendly folks taking your money and serving you food.
The ride consists of a tractor pulling a large wagon that holds about 40 maximum. The hay bails are set up in levels to fit everyone in. They pull you through the woods and field and you stop at different scenes. There were a couple you were like: Huh?. Others were tongue-in-cheek. One was a very good Micheal Jackson Thriller video reenactment. They had a Saw scene that was pretty intense complete with working chain saw. That one was pretty good and had everyone jumping.
What's nice about the hay ride is you don't have to rely on people moving if the scene is too intense for them. One child didn't like it and just buried her head and waiting for it to be over.
Summary: This event is pretty good and great for the price. I suspect the scenes and attractions will get better in the coming years. We'll go back to find out.
