Well folks, it’s getting scarily close to Halloween. You may not have a costume yet (check our suggestions here) or your Halloween activities lined up for the next couple of weeks, but that’s all about to change. Chances are good that you’ll venture out to either a nearby haunted house or a corn maze in the next couple of weeks. But which October activity yields the most spooktacular fun? Let’s find out in This vs. That.

Corn Maze

Whether it’s haunted or not, the corn maze is a New England fall staple and (in my opinion) quite spooky. Imagine yourself (Mel Gibson-style in Signs) lost in a corn field just as the sun begins to set. Strange sounds ensue and creepy ghoulish figures appear (probably with a corn cutter axe in tow). Are you scared yet? Honestly, there’s just something a little terrifying about corn mazes (hello, Children of the Corn?). The thought of being in the midst of the winding corn field trail is a bit claustrophobic—not to mention you can get really, really lost.

Just ask this family, who in 2011 got lost while venturing through the Headless Horseman Maze (all in the name of family fun) at Connors Farm in Danvers, MA. Without a doubt, my worst nightmare.

In truth, the corn maze is probably a better fit than a haunted house for a family. Not only do you get to be outside in the crisp fall weather, but often, the corn maze has fun scavenger hunts and clues perfect for both kids and adults. There are plenty of them in the Boston area and they come in all shapes, sizes and intricate designs. Corn mazes are truly works of art and look totally awesome (like the above). If anything, I think it’s worth a trip just to see the designs.

Haunted House

Withstanding a creepy haunted house chock full of ghosts and goblins is a Halloween staple activity for all the young twenty to thirty-something demo. Just check out these terrified bros (above). The recent success of the TV show American Horror Story speaks to the ongoing fascination with ghosts and paranormal activity that many believe actually exists. But why do people voluntarily put themselves through an hour of terror? For one, if the haunted house is awesome (and actually scary), you’ll get a huge adrenaline rush as your palms sweat anticipating the next horrifying creature to jump out at you. And two, haunted houses allow us to feel fear without feeling seriously threatened (since we know that deep down none of this is real).

Another great thing about the haunted house option is there are plenty of them around Boston. Whether you find yourself in Salem or somewhere in the Boston area, chances are there is a haunted house or hotel near you. Another plus: haunted houses are usually very easy to maneuver (I’ve never heard of anyone getting lost in a haunted house—thankfully).

But, the hauntings and creepy stairwells aren’t for everyone. Plenty of people (including myself) do not particularly enjoy the sight of fake blood, the feel of gooey slime or the startling attack of a goblin in your face. No thank ya.

Winner: Haunted Houses

Haunted houses are without a doubt the best thing you can do to get into the true Halloween spirit. While corn mazes offer great scenery and fun times, they can also lead to a 911 call that (personally) I’d rather avoid. Great haunted houses are thrilling, scary, fun and safe all at the same time.

We know there are people out there who will disagree. Let us know where you stand in the comments section below!

Images via Boston.com and Buzzfeed.com