SeaWorld Orlando: Howl-O-Scream Park Entry Ticket
When the calendar flips to fall, many of us look for that perfect mix of thrills and chills. If you’re in Orlando and craving a night of spooky fun, the Howl-O-Scream event at SeaWorld Orlando is worth considering. Priced at $37 per person and valid for an entire year, this ticket grants you access to one of the most talked-about Halloween attractions in the U.S. during the fall season.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you get a full evening packed with haunted houses, scare zones, and terrifying shows—all after sunset. Second, the park’s thrilling rides stay open in the dark, adding an extra layer of excitement. While it’s not a drop-in, walk-in kind of event—you need a separate ticket and plan ahead—this night event promises a blend of adrenaline, spookiness, and entertainment.
One key consideration? The ticketing hiccups some reviewers have encountered, like blocked scans or tickets not working, remind us to double-check your ticket beforehand. And, since the event is intense and designed for mature audiences, it might not be suitable for the very young or faint-hearted.
This experience suits adventure-loving adults and older teens who enjoy scary movies and thrill rides alike. If you’re after a unique Halloween experience in Orlando with a mixture of scares and rides, it’s worth considering.
Key Points
- Immersive Haunted Houses with unique themes like the D3LER1UM666 Laboratories bring scares to the ocean floor.
- Multiple scare zones create a creepy, movie-like atmosphere, especially at night.
- Thrilling rides such as Mako and Ice Breaker operate after dark for a different, adrenaline-fueled experience.
- Live shows like Monster Stomp and themed entertainment add to the spooky fun.
- Food and beverages are creatively themed, with options like Blood Bags and Vampire Burgers, with discounts available.
- Event timing is from 7 PM to 1 AM on Saturdays, slightly shorter on other nights.
- Separate ticketing from daytime SeaWorld entry means planning ahead is key.
- Parking starts at $30, so budget accordingly.
- Accessibility is available, but costumes are not permitted.
In-Depth Review of the Howl-O-Scream Experience
While in Orlando, here are other experiences we've covered
Location and Access
SeaWorld Orlando transforms into a Halloween playground for the night with a specially designated entrance—located right of the main park entrance on Central Florida Parkway. The event runs during the evening hours, from 7 PM to 1 AM on Saturdays, which allows for a full night of fun. The separate ticket means you don’t need to worry about regular park entry, but it’s wise to arrive early to beat the crowd and get the most out of your night.
A free shuttle service from SeaWorld is available, making it easier to get back and forth without battling parking congestion. The shuttle ride takes about 90 minutes each way, so factor that into your evening plans.
Haunted Houses and Themed Zones
One of the main draws is the lineup of haunted houses, each with distinct themes guaranteed to raise your hair. The newest addition, D3LER1UM666 Laboratories, transports you to an undersea lab where things go terribly wrong. From the reviews, we know some visitors found this experience “insanely fun” and “stunning,” with the immersive environment making you feel like you’ve stepped into a horror film.
Other haunted houses feature classic horror themes and are crafted with detail and atmosphere that amplify the scares. The freaky scare zones, such as the CarnEVIL Pier with demented clowns and creepy monsters lurking in the shadows, add to the uncanny vibe. The environments are immersive enough to make you constantly wary of the next surprise.
Rides in the Dark and Thrilling Entertainment
What sets Howl-O-Scream apart from a typical haunted event is that several of SeaWorld’s popular rides—including Mako, Ice Breaker, Manta, and Pipeline—stay open after dark. Riding these in pitch black, with the wind rushing past and no idea what’s coming next, is a completely different experience. A few reviews mention that, “it’s a whole new level of excitement when you can’t see what’s coming.”
The live shows and entertainment add a layer of fun and unpredictability. Shows like Monster Stomp feature twisted tales of horror and special effects, providing a break from the scares while still maintaining the spooky theme.
More Great Tours NearbyFood, Beverages, and Atmosphere
Part of the fun is trying the themed food and drinks—such as the Blood Bag cocktail or Vampire burger—that make the event feel like a gothic feast. Guests can buy a food & beverage lanyard that offers up to five drinks and two full-sized meals at a fixed price, which can be a smart way to fuel up for the night’s scares.
Atmosphere-wise, the park transforms into a spooky playground, with eerie lighting, sound effects, and actors popping out unexpectedly. It’s designed for maximum fun and fright, with a few guests finding the scares “insane”—and some even say the event was “amazing” and “they will definitely come back.”
Practical Considerations and Tips
While the event offers many thrills, some reviews highlight ticketing issues, such as tickets not scanning or being blocked. We advise double-checking your tickets and arriving early. Also, parking can cost around $30, so include that in your budget.
Since costumes are not allowed, it’s better to dress comfortably for walking and possibly layered if you’re sensitive to cooler night air. The event is designed for a mature audience, with some reviews mentioning intense adult content—not suitable for young children or faint-hearted visitors.
Overall Value and Who Will Love It
At $37, the ticket price is reasonable considering you get entrance to all attractions and rides, plus access to the haunted houses and scare zones. Compared to other Halloween events, it’s a balanced mix of scares, rides, and entertainment, offering good value especially if you’re a fan of thrill rides and spooky atmospheres.
This experience is best suited for adults and older teens who enjoy scary movies, thrill rides, and a lively, spooky environment. It’s not ideal for families with young children or those seeking a less intense Halloween atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream offers a well-rounded Halloween night that combines adrenaline-pumping rides, immersive haunted houses, and theatrical scares. The event’s nighttime setting and special themed attractions give it a feeling of “being in a movie,” which thrill-seekers will appreciate.
We loved the way the rides in the dark elevate the adrenaline rush, and the themed scare zones keep you guessing at every turn. The live shows are a nice touch, providing some lighter moments amidst the chaos. Plus, the themed food and drinks make the experience more festive and fun.
The main drawbacks? Occasional ticketing issues and the cost of parking—but these are minor compared to the overall experience. If you’re prepared for a spooky night full of surprises, this event offers value and fun for those craving a Halloween adventure with a bit of a thrill.
For those who like scary stories, thrill rides, and lively entertainment, and want a Halloween event that’s both immersive and exciting, this is a solid choice. It’s perfect for adventure lovers looking to add a bit of fear and excitement to their Orlando trip.
FAQ
Is the ticket valid for multiple visits?
Yes, the ticket is valid for one year, so you can choose the night that suits you best within that period.
What are the event hours?
On Saturdays, 7 PM to 1 AM. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, it runs from 7 PM to midnight.
Do I need to buy a separate ticket for daytime SeaWorld admission?
No, the Howl-O-Scream ticket is separate from the regular daytime park entry, and you need this specific ticket for the event.
Can children attend?
While children can attend, Howl-O-Scream is intended for a mature audience. It contains intense adult content like violence and gore, so parental discretion is advised.
Are costumes allowed?
No, costumes are not permitted, likely for safety and logistical reasons.
Is parking included?
Parking costs start at $30, and is not included in the ticket price.
Are all rides open during the event?
Most of SeaWorld’s popular rides, such as Mako and Ice Breaker, are open weather permitting.
What if I encounter ticket issues?
Some reviews report ticket scan problems, so we recommend arriving early and verifying your tickets ahead of time.
Is the event wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the event is wheelchair accessible, but check specific ride and attraction restrictions if needed.
Can I purchase food and drinks on-site?
Yes, themed food and drinks are available, and the food & beverage lanyard offers a good value for multiple items.
In all, SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream is a solid option for those wanting a spooky, thrilling evening in Florida. It offers enough scares, rides, and entertainment to make it worth the ticket price if you’re in the mood for some Halloween mischief. Just plan ahead, arrive early, and enjoy the eerie ambiance and adrenaline rush.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tickets in Orlando
More Tour Reviews in Orlando
More Orlando experiences we've covered
- Small Group Clearwater Beach,Dolphin Watch Tour from Orlando
- Orlando: Jet Ski Rental
- Orlando: Dune Buggy Tour
- Orlando Night Bike Tour: Fun Ride Thru the Citys Nightlife
- From Orlando: Kennedy Space Center Trip with Transport
- Orlando: Paddle with Pups in Paradise – Paddleboard or Kayak
- Orlando: The Orlando Eye with Optional Attraction Tickets
- Orlando: Andretti Indoor Karting Attraction Ticket
- Orlando: Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf Entry Ticket
- Orlando: Bioluminescence Kayak Tour
- Orlando: Ivanhoe Village Food Tour with Tastings
- River Country Water Park Day Pass
