When Rob Zombie set out to create the Great American Nightmare, he knew exactly where to go for ideas: his own movies. He and his spooky-smart team of technical wizards created three haunted houses, each inspired by one of the director's terrifying cinematic works. Haunt of 1,000 Corpses brings to life the horrors of exploitation film House of 1,000 Corpses. Thrill-seekers wander through a recreation of the movie's "Museum of Monsters & Madmen" before hopping on the Murder Ride, which puts them nose to nose with notorious serial killers. Inspired by Zombie's 2012 indie film Lords of Salem, Lords of Salem In Total Blackout toys with claustrophobia, fear of the dark, and the heightening of one's senses while wandering a maze. Lastly, guests don Chromadepth glasses to explore the world of animated horror-comedy romp El Superbeasto, immersing themselves in a world of vivid images, bawdy humor, and surprises that lurk around every technicolor corner. Between attractions, or while waiting for nerves to settle, guests can wander up and down the Bloody Boulevard and take in other spooky sights. Each evening, the Great American Nightmare also hosts adrenaline-boosting musical acts.

Through curls of fog lit by ultraviolet light, players find vantage points to take aim at their opponents in Lazer X's bilevel, 6,500-square-foot arena. Wearing computerized vests, players blast each other with phasers while avoiding distractions caused by pulsing strobe lights, animatronic creatures, and up-tempo music that begs them to stop and do the macarena. After the game, vests tally up points, and players can review their scores on a printout that will also detail the hits they made and received. Alternately, patrons can follow-up games with a trip to the arcade where they can keep their trigger fingers in tip-top condition.

Vertical Endeavors has been helping visitors reach new heights for more than 25 years. Top rope courses, bouldering areas, and other climbing challenges await guests at locations scattered around the midwest, with routes that cater to climbers of all experience levels. For first-time wall-scalers, seasoned instructors lead a series of courses that can acquaint them with the equipment and techniques they need to successfully reach the top, while more experienced climbers can sign up for a one of the company's guided adventures, such as an ice climbing excursion or other outdoor trip.

Looking for a place to take the kids this weekend? Look no further than the action-packed rides and boundless fun of Laser Quest in Downers Grove. The doors are open for you at this park with their people friendly restaurant and great, home-cooked food. Bring the whole family to this park, where kiddos are welcomed with open arms. Parking is plentiful, so visitors can feel free to bring their vehicles.

Buckle up and hang on tight! Comp-Medic in Wheaton will bring thrills, excitement, and fun for the whole family. Parking is plentiful, so guests can feel free to bring their vehicles.

Betson Midwest in Bensenville is a beautiful park for people (and pets) of all ages to enjoy a fun-filled day outdoors. Parking is plentiful, so visitors can feel free to bring their vehicles. Green grass, clear skies, and warm rays of sun await you at Betson Midwest's leisurely park.