Edson Incident

The Edson Incident in Bay City, Michigan, is a premier haunted attraction set aboard the historic USS Edson, a Vietnam-era U.S. Navy Destroyer permanently docked as part of the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. Renowned as Michigan’s top haunted attraction, voted #1 by Michigan Haunted Houses in 2022 and 2023, this unique haunt transforms the ship’s five decks into a 30- to 45-minute nightmare, blending its real naval history with a chilling narrative of a military experiment gone haywire. Guests navigate a claustrophobic labyrinth of narrow passageways, steep stairwells, and eerie compartments, immersing them in a haunting atmosphere where the ship’s reported paranormal activity—such as unexplained footsteps and whispers—enhances the terror. The experience features detailed sets, including a fog-shrouded engine room, a blood-soaked medical bay, and a shadowy crew’s quarters, where over 50 professional actors portray deranged sailors, mutant creatures, and ghostly apparitions, delivering intense jump scares and unsettling interactions. The haunt’s atmosphere is amplified by strobe lights, thick fog, and dynamic soundscapes, with props like rusted naval equipment and flickering gauges adding authenticity. Standout scenes include a disorienting mirror maze and a pitch-black corridor where actors exploit low visibility for maximum fear. The virtual queue system allows guests to wait in their vehicles, adding comfort, while the outdoor staging area offers concessions and roaming actors to maintain the spooky vibe. Due to the ship’s steep stairs, tight spaces, and intense scares, it’s not recommended for children under 10 or those with mobility issues, though a family-friendly, monster-free tour is available for younger visitors. With its unique naval setting, cinematic production, and community support for the USS Edson’s preservation, the Edson Incident offers an unforgettable Halloween adventure for thrill-seekers.