SeaWorld Orlando: Howl-O-Scream Park Entry Ticket

If you’re thinking about spicing up your Orlando trip with a night of frightful fun, the Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando might catch your eye. We’ve checked out the details of this event, and while we haven’t been there ourselves, there’s enough info to help you decide if it’s worth your evening. It promises a combo of haunted houses, scare zones, rides, and live entertainment—all laced with a spooky theme that runs through fall nights.

What we like about it? First, the fully immersive haunted houses and scare zones really seem to deliver on the scare factor, with environments designed to put you on edge. Second, the chance to ride SeaWorld’s thrill rides at night—like Pipeline, Mako, Manta, and Ice Breaker—adds a layer of excitement that isn’t available during the daytime.

One possible downside? The ticket price of $37 per person might be a bit steep if you’re hoping for a more chill or family-friendly experience. Also, reviews point out logistical hiccups such as ticket scanning issues, which could be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule.

This event is well-suited for adults and thrill-seekers who love Halloween haunts, but it’s less ideal if you’re after a laid-back, family-oriented outing. Still, for those craving a night full of mischief and mayhem, it might just be the ticket.

Key Points

• Spine-Chilling Haunted Houses: Each themed haunted house offers different scares, with the newest addition transporting visitors to an undersea lab gone wrong.
• Terrifying Scare Zones: Creepy creatures and immersive environments keep the adrenaline high as you navigate through zones like CarnEVIL Pier.
• Nighttime Rides: SeaWorld’s roller coasters operate in the dark, delivering a fresh thrill experience for coaster fans.
• Live Entertainment: Shows like Monster Stomp and twisted tales of Jack the Ripper add a theatrical scare dimension.
• Themed Food & Drinks: Special spooky bites and drinks—think “Blood Bag” cocktails and Vampire burgers—make snacking part of the fun.
• Event Timing & Accessibility: Open on select nights, with a dedicated entrance and shuttle service, making logistics manageable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando?

Howl-O-Scream is an annual Halloween event held at SeaWorld Orlando, transforming the park into a haunted playground after sunset. For about five hours each night (7 PM to either midnight or 1 AM, depending on the day), the park morphs into a spooky universe filled with haunted houses, scare zones, live shows, and nighttime rides. The main goal? To give visitors a night full of frights and fun.

It’s important to note that this is a separate ticketed event, meaning you won’t get in with your regular daytime SeaWorld pass. The event is aimed more at thrill-seekers and adults, with intense themes, gory effects, and scares designed to send shivers down your spine.

The event runs Thursday through Sunday during the Halloween season, with Saturday nights being particularly lively. If you’re considering going, you can purchase your ticket for $37, which covers entry to all open attractions at Howl-O-Scream.

The Haunted Houses: Scream Your Heart Out

One of the main draws of Howl-O-Scream is the haunted houses. Each themed haunt aims to shock and surprise—from creepy laboratories to underwater nightmares. The newest addition this year is D3LER1UM666 Laboratories, which promises a trip to an ominous undersea lab that takes a turn for the worse—definitely not for the faint of heart.

Guests seem to really enjoy these immersive experiences, with one reviewer noting the variety of scares that cater to different fears. The haunted houses are designed to be fully immersive, using detailed sets, special effects, and actors in costume to amplify the horror.

However, a review from September 13th mentions some ticket scanning issues that delayed entry, noting that some guests arrived to find their tickets blocked. Although the staff resolved this with a replacement card, it highlights that logistical hiccups can happen.

Terrifying Scare Zones: Creatures and Creepy Corners

Outside the haunted houses, the park is dotted with scare zones—areas where monsters and creepy creatures lurk around every corner. These zones, such as the fan-favorite CarnEVIL Pier, are filled with demented clowns, freaks, and other creatures designed to keep you wary.

The environment helps create a sense of being in a horror movie, with eerie lighting, fog, and actors jumping out unexpectedly. These zones are not just about scares—they’re about creating an atmosphere that makes you feel constantly on edge.

Rides in the Dark: Thrills After Sunset

SeaWorld’s signature rides like Pipeline, Mako, Manta, and Ice Breaker are open during Howl-O-Scream nights. Riding these coasters in the dark adds a distinct thrill—some may say a whole new level of excitement. Expect to scream as you race through twists and turns under a moonlit sky.

The review from Nichol describes the experience as “amazing,” emphasizing that riding in the dark is an entirely different experience and worth doing if you’re a coaster enthusiast.

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Live Shows & Entertainment: More Than Just Frights

Beyond the scares, Howl-O-Scream offers live entertainment. Expect shows like Monster Stomp, which features spooky dance routines and performances with a dark twist. The shows often incorporate flames, eerie music, and costumes to keep the night’s energy high.

While some reviews don’t detail the shows extensively, the variety of entertainment helps fill the night with additional surprises, making the event a full-night experience rather than just a series of scares.

Food & Beverages: Spooky Snacks

Food options during Howl-O-Scream are themed to match the spooky vibe. From “Blood Bag” cocktails to Vampire burgers, these treats add fun to the evening. Guests can also save on food by purchasing a food & beverage lanyard, which offers up to five drinks and two full-sized food items at a fixed price.

This setup is especially useful if you’re planning to spend several hours at the event, ensuring you stay fueled for the scares. The quality and taste aren’t the main focus here—it’s about the themed experience and convenience.

Logistics & Practicalities

Getting to Howl-O-Scream is straightforward. There’s a dedicated entrance to the event located to the right of the main SeaWorld Orlando entrance, making access easy. Parking starts at $30, which is standard for theme parks in the area, so plan accordingly.

A free shuttle service is available, taking about 90 minutes each way, which is handy if you’re not driving. The event is wheelchair accessible, and the groups are limited to around 10 participants, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Timing-wise, the event runs Thursday through Sunday, starting at 7 PM and concluding by midnight or 1 AM. Remember, children can attend, but the event is generally designed for a mature audience due to its intense themes. The Spooktacular daytime event is more family-friendly, available on weekends up to October 31, if you’re traveling with kids seeking a less scary experience.

Considerations & Caveats

While many guests enjoy Howl-O-Scream, some reviewers have shared less positive experiences. One person mentioned being unable to get a refund after a car accident, highlighting the importance of understanding cancellation policies.

Ticket issues also came up, with a reviewer noting that their tickets didn’t scan properly and had to be reissued. These kinds of logistical issues can cause frustration, so it’s wise to arrive early and have your tickets ready.

The ticket price of $37 offers access to a full night of scares and entertainment, but if you’re not into haunted houses or if you prefer a more relaxed evening, this might feel a bit pricey.

Who Is This Event For?

Thrill-seekers and Halloween lovers will likely find Howl-O-Scream a highlight of their Orlando visit. If you enjoy haunted houses, scare zones, and the thrill of rides in the dark, this event will check most boxes.

It’s less suited if you’re traveling with young children or if you prefer a calm, family-oriented Halloween experience. Also, those sensitive to gore and intense themes should be cautious, as the event contains adult content like violence and blood.

Final Thoughts

SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream offers an intense, immersive Halloween experience packed with haunted houses, scare zones, nighttime rides, and live shows. For around $37, you’ll get an evening full of adrenaline, creativity, and spooky entertainment. While some logistical issues have been reported, most guests seem to enjoy the overall vibe, especially the thrill of riding sea coasters in the dark and wandering through themed scare zones.

This event is perfect if you’re looking for a memorable night full of mischief and mayhem rather than a family-friendly Halloween. It’s especially well-suited for adults, teens, and thrill-seekers craving a spooky adventure in Orlando. Just be prepared for the adult themes and potentially long lines or ticket issues, and you should have a fantastic time.

FAQs

Is Howl-O-Scream suitable for children?
While children can attend, the event is designed for a mature audience and features intense themes such as violence, gore, and blood. The daytime Spooktacular might be better for younger kids.

How much does a ticket cost?
The entry ticket is priced at $37 per person, which gives access to all open attractions at Howl-O-Scream during the event.

Are all rides open during Howl-O-Scream?
Most of SeaWorld’s popular rides, including Pipeline, Mako, Manta, and Ice Breaker, are open at night, weather permitting. Riding in the dark can be a different thrill altogether.

What are the event hours?
The event runs on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays starting at 7 PM. It closes at 12 AM or 1 AM, depending on the night.

Is parking available?
Yes, general parking starts at $30. A free shuttle service is also available, taking approximately 90 minutes each way.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, tickets can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Be aware of logistical issues that might arise on the day of your visit.

In the end, if you’re after a night full of scares, thrills, and a touch of theatrical horror, Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando could be just what you need. Just weigh your comfort with scares and your budget before jumping in. Happy haunting!

You can check availability for your dates here: