Where Can You Celebrate Halloween in Florida?
The challenge many travelers face, including myself, is figuring out how to celebrate Halloween when you're in Florida. It's easy to think of beaches and sunshine when you think of Florida, but Halloween? Not so much. However, Florida transforms during the spooky season. The state has plenty of attractions that cater to the Halloween vibe, making it a perfect destination for those who want to experience the holiday in a unique way.
Overwhelmed by the Options?
With so many options available, deciding how to spend Halloween in Florida can feel overwhelming. From terrifying haunted houses to not-so-scary pumpkin patches, it's easy to feel like you’ll miss out if you don’t choose the right activity. I went through the same dilemma when planning my Halloween trip. However, after diving into some research and experiencing it myself, I can confidently say that there are activities for every kind of traveler.
Must-Do Halloween Activities in Florida
Let me break down some of the best things to do in Florida for Halloween that I found during my travels. Each offers a different way to experience the spooky season.
- Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights
If you love haunted houses and getting scared, Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights is an experience you can’t miss. I was blown away by the sheer scale of the event, which features multiple haunted houses, scare zones, and live entertainment. The event typically runs from mid-September through early November, and tickets start at around $80. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you enjoy a good fright, it’s worth every penny. I went through several haunted houses, each one scarier than the last, and the attention to detail was incredible. - Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World
For a more family-friendly option, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World is perfect. I attended this with some friends, and it’s a great way to enjoy Halloween without the scares. The event features special Halloween-themed parades, shows, and trick-or-treating throughout the park. Costumes are encouraged, and you’ll see plenty of families and kids in adorable outfits. Tickets start at around $150, but the experience is well worth it, especially for younger travelers or those who prefer a less intense Halloween vibe. - Local Haunted Houses and Hayrides
Florida is home to several local haunted houses and haunted hayrides that pop up during October. I visited the Scream-A-Geddon Horror Park in Dade City, and it was one of the most terrifying experiences I’ve had. The park features multiple haunted attractions, including a haunted house where you can choose to be part of the action, making it an immersive experience. It cost about $35 to get in, and I’d recommend going with a group—it’s much more fun to get scared together! - Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals
If you’re looking for something more relaxed, Florida has plenty of pumpkin patches and fall festivals to explore. I visited the Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival in Bradenton, which offered everything from corn mazes to hayrides and, of course, plenty of pumpkins to pick. It’s a great family-friendly option, and the festival typically runs on weekends throughout October. Entry is affordable, usually around $10.
Final Thoughts
Florida might be known for its sunny beaches, but when Halloween rolls around, the state knows how to celebrate. Whether you want to be scared out of your mind at Halloween Horror Nights or enjoy a laid-back pumpkin patch with family and friends, there’s something for everyone. These are just some of the best things to do in Florida for Halloween. No matter how you like to celebrate, Florida has you covered with festive, spooky fun!
If the Halloween activities aren’t your thing or if the weather isn’t cooperating, don’t worry! There are plenty of indoor things to do in Florida that can still make your trip exciting. From exploring interactive museums like the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to discovering fascinating marine life at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa, Florida has you covered. I also found indoor activities like escape rooms and virtual reality experiences to be a fun way to spend time while staying out of the heat or rain. So, no matter what you’re into, Florida has indoor attractions for everyone!