RANCHO CORDOVA – Heartstoppers Haunted House has made its return to Rancho Cordova for its 17th annual event at The Mineshaft, promising a multi-level horror experience. Known for its eerie atmosphere, the venue itself is rumored to be haunted, providing the perfect backdrop for the haunted house. The event, which supports two local nonprofits, will run Fridays and Saturdays throughout October, with additional dates leading up to Halloween.
The production team, which has been running professional haunted houses for nearly two decades, offers four distinct attractions. These include two major haunts inside The Mineshaft and two outdoor experiences on the former mini-golf course and surrounding property. Tickets, available online only, start at $35. More information can be found HERE.
Heartstoppers is operated in partnership with the nonprofit Theatre Education 4 Theater Nerds, Inc., and has developed a close relationship with the Cordova Community Council. Proceeds from the event will support community programs in Rancho Cordova.
“We can’t wait to open again this year and scare all of our local friends,” said Joel Watson, producer of Heartstoppers Haunted House. “Our long-term plan is to not only run the haunted house in October but to expand seasonally for workshops and themed events at The Mineshaft.”
The haunted house includes four main attractions: Deadlands, an Old West-themed outdoor experience featuring zombies; The Ward: Project Crossbreed, set in an abandoned hospital occupying the building’s upper floors; BlightWoods, a possessed forest controlled by witches located on the former mini-golf course; and Misery Mine, set in the collapsed silver mine beneath Deadlands, located in The Mineshaft’s basement.
In addition to these attractions, visitors can enjoy the Redemption! Stage Show, a performance running every hour that explains the storyline behind the haunts. Tickets also include access to two themed scare zones, and a waiting area with refreshments and souvenirs available for purchase.
For those looking to skip the line, a Fast-Q ticket, called the “Fancy Pants” ticket, is available for $55. Six-packs of tickets can be purchased for $32 each, and larger group rates are available.
New this year, the Parkour and Performing Arts Center (PPAC) is bringing the Cirque Vau de Villain show to the Ghost Town at Heartstoppers. This 45-minute circus variety and freak show promises thrills for all ages. Tickets to this show also include the “Spin-to-Win” experience, offering prizes like a mystery trip or a stay at a haunted motel in Nevada.
Unique vendors will offer horror-themed jewelry, art, and gifts, while food trucks and a specialty mocktail bar will serve treats and drinks, including non-alcoholic options like Cyrus Cider and Witches Brew.
“Our volunteers are the heart of our organization,” Watson added. “Their hard work and dedication help bring our vision to life, creating a premier haunted house experience that benefits the community.”
The Cordova Community Council plays a key role in supporting Heartstoppers, assisting with volunteer recruitment, parking management, and venue arrangements. A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit community activities sponsored by the Council.
Heartstoppers Haunted House operates on Fridays and Saturdays throughout October, with additional dates leading up to Halloween. Tickets are available by reservation only, and parking gates open at 7 p.m. Full schedule details are available HERE. The Minshaft is located at 2300 Mine Shaft Lane in Rancho Cordova, just off Folsom Boulevard between Hazel Avenue and Sunrise Boulevard.
