History
The Bates Motel and Haunted Hayride is celebrating its 23rd season, featuring three major attractions; the amazing Haunted Hayride, an incredible Haunted Corn Maze, and the world renowned Bates Motel haunted house. Founded in 1991 by Anne and Randy Bates, the Haunted Hayride was just another way for them to preserve the farm that has been in their family since the early 1950’s. The Bates’ incorporated under the name Agritainment, Inc; now the current buzz word in agricultural tourism and farming entertainment throughout the country. As the Haunted Hayride gained in popularity, it was clear that additional attractions could be added to increase revenue and add to the thrill of this amazing event. In 1996, they opened the Bates Motel, a Victorian style haunted mansion, which soon became one of the top haunted houses in Pennsylvania and the surrounding area. By the late 1990’s, massive crowds and the popularity of the Bates Farm led to the addition of a Haunted Corn Maze; a terrifying walk thru attraction adjacent to the Bates Motel. By this time, the Bates Motel and Haunted Hayride was being recognized on a national level. In 2001, they made the Top 10 list for haunted attractions in America. Featured in Fangoria and Rue Morgue Magazines, the popularity of the event spread far and wide. Drawing customers from NYC, DC, Boston and Pittsburg, the Bates Motel and Haunted Hayride was fast becoming a destination attraction, with customers filling the local hotels and restaurants.