Tampa Bay Scares: Halloween Season’s Official Arrival

As October rolls in, the Halloween season is officially upon us, and Tampa Bay is ready to embrace all things spooky and fun. From theme parks to haunted trails, there are plenty of scares to indulge in this year.

Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream is celebrating its 25th anniversary with five haunted houses, open-air scare zones, themed foods and drinks, live comic shows, and coasters in the dark. The all-new house, “Shadows of Wonderland,” puts a horror twist on the classic “Alice in Wonderland” stories. Tickets start at $44.99 and can be purchased at buschgardens.com.

ZooTampa Creatures of the Night offers a family-friendly scare zone with clowns and creepy creatures roaming the zoo. Guests can also experience the “They Are Here” Alien Haunted Trail and a Halloween light show. Tickets start at $29.95 and reservations are strongly encouraged at zootampa.org.

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights is the biggest Halloween event in the state, featuring 10 new haunted houses based on popular movie and TV properties. Tickets range from $82.99-$122.99, with express passes available at universalorlando.com/hhn/en/us/tickets.

For those looking for a more family-friendly experience, Legoland Brick or Treat allows costumed kids to trick or treat throughout the park, with character meet and greets and a limited-time menu. Tickets start at $84 and the event runs on weekends.

Local haunts and shows include Scream-A-Geddon in Dade City, UNDead in the Water on the American Victory Ship in Tampa, and Jurassic Haunt at Dinosaur World in Plant City. There are also haunted tours on the Pirate Water Taxi, Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City, and The Devil’s Ball in St. Petersburg.

Whether you’re looking for a spooky night out or a family-friendly Halloween experience, Tampa Bay has something for everyone this season. Don’t miss out on all the scares and fun that await in the area’s top Halloween attractions.