If you are a Halloween fan, you must visit the USS Nightmare. Conveniently located on the river in front of Newport on the Levee, this seasonal favorite is prepared for its 17th haunting season. Built on a real steamboat and featuring over 20,000 square feet with more than 40 rooms and 40 minutes of bone chilling fun, the USS Nightmare is this season’s best entertainment value.

Before becoming America’s premier haunted steamboat, the William S. Mitchell served 50 years dredging the western rivers. The steamboat was destined to be preserved as a museum honoring the crew members lost during the years of hard, dangerous work, but after breaking loose from its mooring the boat went on an uncontrolled voyage which ended only after hitting five bridges. The damage was massive causing the cancellation of the planned restoration; a dismal end to the William S. Mitchell seemed inevitable.

That was until Production Manager, Allen Rizzo, conceived the idea of transforming her into a haunted dark attraction for the Halloween season. And, the rest is history. Well, Halloween legend history anyway.

When you visit, be prepared to be scared because this haunted crew is unlike anything you have ever experienced. The fright seeker’s tour of the historic steamboat introduces the vessel’s creepy Captain and his crew and showcases the massive steam engines and boilers providing a glimpse of the life of the crew who lived and worked on the mysterious old boat. This spine-tingling journey plays on the fears and phobias of the visitors and is enhanced with special effects including state of the art animations and movie quality sound and lighting effects.

Rated annually as one of the top haunts in Cincinnati, the USS Nightmare has also been rated among the nation’s top haunted dark attractions by Haunt World Magazine, and once you visit, you’ll know why. Owned and operated by the Bernstein family, the USS Nightmare begins its 2008 season on September 19 and 20 from 7 p.m. to midnight. The full haunting season runs from September 26 through November 1. Hours are Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 7 to 11 p.m. with Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Admission is $16. A kid-friendly lights-on matinee is available on October 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. for $6. Special group rates and private party options are available throughout the Halloween season; visit www.ussnightmare.com for more information.

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