Costumes are encouraged at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science’s Halloween extravaganza for all ages. The jack-o’-lantern-lit campus flows with fun, freaky science activities: Kids can meet the resident creepy-crawly reptiles and foreboding birds of prey, as well as learn myth-busting facts about what owls get up to in the dead of night. They can also see a live owl at the interactive “Peeps & Squeaks” puppet show, and daring guests discover even more about various denizens of the forest during hands-on workshops with pelts, bones and pellets. Add in some spooky, science-themed crafts for good measure, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Price: Regular admission, $15-18; free for members and kids 3 and under.