History (Cont.)
In order to keep the momentum going, Randy Bates made sure that there were major changes made to all three attractions each year. He also had many innovations to the industry such as the use of VIP passes, online ticketing and giant screen video systems to keep customers occupied during the long waiting lines. He also began using newer technology for marketing such as developed email lists, cutting edge websites and web banner ads. All the work and dedication has vaulted this attraction to the top of the Halloween Haunted Attraction Industry. In 2006, Bates was featured on the Travel Channel, and listed on CNN’s top 13 Haunted Attractions. In 2007, Bates made the top 10 Haunted Attractions list again, and was featured in several newspaper articles in the Tri-State area, including NYC. In 2008, the Bates Motel, along with other attractions around the country, produced their own TV special, America Haunts, and sold the one hour special to the Travel Channel. They again made the top 10 lists across the country, and moved up to the number 4 spot on Hauntworld Magazine. In 2010, Bates Motel finally made it to the number 1 spot on the top 13 List. Once again, they were featured on the Travel channel, and made the front page of the Wall Street Journal. This article created a landslide of popularity. Bates Motel was featured on the NBC Nightly news; ABC and CBS and CNN also did segments about Haunted Attractions helping to save the Family Farm, airing video and interviews with the Bates staff. In 2011, Bates Motel and Haunted Hayride was again the top attraction in America according to Hauntworld Magazine, and a host of other publications, including USA Today, CNN.com, the Wall Street Journal, and Boston Globe.
The success of this attraction can be attributed to the dedication and professionalism of the staff. Without their input and willingness to work long, hard hours, the Bates Motel would never be where it is today.