Mesmer: Sideshow Of The Mind

Psychological thriller maze

This is one of the first haunts I've encountered where standard elements like the dot room or a terror tunnel flow naturally into one overall theme. This was one of my top two haunts at Knott's this year -- it was visually interesting, it made me rethink elements I have seen before, and the storyline made sense.

I loved this theme of hypnotization. Of all the mazes at Knott’s, this one is the best at telling you a complete story throughout the entire maze. The voice talks to you through the entire maze, which makes perfect sense for the hypnotization theme. There are also some really cool, freaky moments during this maze where they play with your mind. I only wish there were even more mind tricks sprinkled all throughout!

Prepare to be spooked. The Knott’s actors are waiting around every turn and know how to pop out at just the right moment to make you jump. The set design is highly detailed and designed for terror at Knott’s Scary Farm. A few cons: the mazes are all very loud with sound effects and music that do little to add to the ambience of fear but do make you want to get out quicker. There is high amount of gore in most of the mazes. We generally prefer haunts that rely on spine-chilling creepiness rather than ritual slaughter. But to each their own.

What can I say? It’s a great haunt! I especially love how trippy each room is. They all mess with your sense of balance and proportion, and really make you feel like you’re in an altered reality. Be warned! This haunt is hidden behind Xcelerator, and is kind of hard to find if you aren’t looking for it. Make sure you don’t miss this one!

Kind of a staple, it hasn’t changed from year to year, but still very enjoyable and usually fast to get into.

Same as the prior year, but still really good

Same as previous years, but it’s good.

Going on its 3rd year, Mesmer still hits hard as one of the most creative mazes in the park. Delving into the dark corners of the mind in a dilapidated demented carnival, each encounter with the circus' denizens was unique and packed with details. I do miss the theatrical intro it had in its first year. The story can also be difficult to follow, as maze-goers quickly hop from room to room.

Circus meets magic, perfect in everyday. A classic with exceptional talent. The characters are well thought up from head to toe.