Howl-O-Scream is swimming back to SeaWorld Orlando for its blood-thirsty third "fear" and tickets are on sale now! SeaWorld is once again hosting Halloween Spooktacular this year, but tadpole parents, take note: Howl-O-Scream is not suitable for ages 13 and under, so if you're trick-or-treating it up during the day on a night when Howl-O-Scream is taking place, you'll want to make a quick escape with the little ones when the family-friendly event ends, before the park gets a little more intense. For 29 terrifying nights, guests brave enough to face the wrath of the blood siren herself can experience haunted houses, scare zones, shows and more.
Overview of Howl-O-Scream Orlando
Are you prepared to enter the sirens' domain? After making a splash with its spooktacular "inaugural fear", Howl-O-Scream came back last year with its "second wave of fear." SeaWorld Orlando upped the scare factor by putting the devious blood siren, Scratch, front and center and expanded its footprint with an event that now circles around the entire blood-soaked lagoon. There's nowhere to hide from the she-demons of the sea and their dangerously devoted followers.
Howl-O-Scream Orlando 2023 Dates and Tickets
SeaWorld Orlando's Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event that runs on select nights from Sept. 8 to Oct. 31, 2023. Save some green by purchasing a single-night ticket valid for a visit on any event night through Undercover Tourist. The park closes to daytime guests at 7 p.m. before it turns into a place of terror from 7 p.m. to midnight on select Fridays through Sundays in September and Thursdays to Sundays in October. Depending on your ticket, you may enter the park as early as 6 p.m. You'll receive a wristband, so team members will be able to know you're there for the event (and they may ask you to show it before entering certain sections of the park before it is cleared of daytime guests). Howl-O-Scream Orlando is taking place on the following dates:
- Sept. 8-10, 15-17, 22-24, 29-30
- Oct. 1, 6-8, 12-15, 19-22, 26-31
Best Dates to Attend
Crowds are historically lighter on Sundays and gradually increase as it gets closer to Halloween. On opening night last year, the wait times for the houses and rides were incredibly short. It didn't feel crowded whatsoever, which makes sense considering it's still a fairly new event. Though keep in mind that crowds can change as the season goes on.
Special Experiences
Make the most of the spooky season and maximize the fear factor with any of four unholy upgrades, which can be purchased directly through SeaWorld. The Front Line Fear pass grants single-use, front-of-the-line access to each haunted house and single-use, front-of-the-line access to a single ride during your visit. Meanwhile, the Front Line Fear Extreme pass grants unlimited front-of-the-line access to each haunted house, unlimited front-of-the-line access to every ride open during the event, one-time reserved seating to the Monster Stomp show and even access to exclusive bonus rooms in one of the haunted houses. There's also the VIP Terror Tour, a private, customizable guided tour that grants unlimited front-of-the-line access to each of the haunted houses, unlimited front-of-the-line access to each ride open during the event, priority reserved seating to the Monster Stomp show, four complimentary beverages (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) and access to those exclusive bonus rooms in one of the houses! (Event admission is required for the VIP tour and not included in the price.)
Brand new last year was Lost Souls Hideaway, a drag cabaret featuring Serpentina Moray, a fearsome and fabulous Serpentine Sea Goddess who despises the selfish sirens for ripping off her special talents for their own gains. Once a powerful force who lured sailors and fishermen to their deaths for centuries, Serpentina is now scrubbing away in a tiny cocktail club on the ocean floor, literally singing for her next meal. Brave souls were not only treated to a show that's truly to die for but exclusive specialty cocktails and desserts, as well. Reservations for your date with destiny were $10 per victim and were available through the Evil Upgrades tab on Howl-O-Scream Orlando's website.
Howl-O-Scream Park Plan
Frogs entering Howl-O-Scream should use the dedicated event entrance located to the right of the main park entrance. Frogs who have been enjoying a day at SeaWorld but who also have Howl-O-Scream tickets will be able to go to the Waterfront where they have a holding area that will allow you to enter Howl-O-Scream within the park. Know that if you leave SeaWorld at any time during Howl-O-Scream, you will not be allowed to re-enter the park. The event will continue, rain or shine.
Howl-O-Scream Orlando enforces a strict No Bag Policy. Bags measuring larger than 8" x 5", including purses and backpacks, aren't permitted through the dedicated Howl-O-Scream entrance. (However, if you are already inside the park, SeaWorld's normal bag policy applies.) This policy was put in place to expedite the security screening process of all frogs and enables SeaWorld to move frogs through the security checkpoint more quickly. If you show up at the gate carrying a bag outside of the guidelines, you will be turned away from the security checkpoint and asked to return the bag to your vehicle. Exceptions to this policy may be made for medically necessary items, including diapers, after proper inspection. These items must be carried in a clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag not to exceed the size of 12" x 6" x 12".
Are you ready to enter the cursed and murky waters? Check out the official map for Howl-O-Scream Orlando 2022 to see where all the sirens, scares and screams were located last year.
Howl-O-Scream Orlando 2022 Haunted Houses
Once you enter, there's no turning back. SeaWorld conjured up five hauntingly horrific houses last year — three of which rose from the depths once again and two of which were brand new to Howl-O-Scream! The next scare can come from anywhere so summon all of the courage you can to brave dark passageways and round dimly lit corners. The only way out of these demonic dwellings is through the thick of it.
NEW! Siren of the Seas
What starts as a relaxing getaway on the water turns into a fight for survival as the sinister siren makes her fearsome presence known. As you wander the decaying decks and encounter passengers long passed, you'll soon realize there's only one way off this boat. Sorry to break it to you, but this ship is never reaching its port.
The first house you'll encounter upon entering the sirens' lair, this ship is full of colorful characters like a captain who's had a little too much whiskey, a cabaret singer whose vocals are to die for and a maid who has reached her limit. Whatever you do, do not provoke the massive cockroach on Deck Five. Something tells me he still has room after devouring the buffet ...
NEW! Blood Beckoning
Journey deep into the underworld where Scratch and her disciples have been awaiting your arrival. They say "beauty is only skin-deep" but this siren needs to get underneath yours to maintain her irresistible allure. That's right ... your blood is the magic ingredient so stay alert and stay alive. Untold terrors are scratching beneath the surface.
Enter the condemned Bleeding Rabbit Books where those cursed by the blood siren warn you of her return. Then venture deeper and further into the underground where the sanguine songstress and her followers are awaiting you. One of the coolest scares of the night came from this house when Scratch told one of her minions to snatch an innocent traveler, who we thought was just a normal frog like us wandering through the house. The next thing we knew, he was being ripped to shreds and sacrificed to the siren. Talk about a bloody surprise!
Dead Vines: Root of All Evil
They're just plants. They can't possibly harm you ... right? Think again. A villainous, verdant vixen has worked her magic and plans to ensnare any trespassers who dare cross her path. Will you be able to escape this bewitched bush before it's too late?
A pleasant garden stroll turns deadly when Hex casts her dark curse. Do not join the tea party. Do not touch the laundry. Do everything you can to get out of here alive.
Beneath the Ice
There's a chill in the air ... can you feel it? Escape from the frozen chambers of a research facility, buried under snow. You joined the rescue party, but now you may need rescuing, too. This house returns from last year with reimagined horrors within the frosty tombs.
Incredibly dark and ear-piercingly loud, this rescue mission isn't for the faint of heart. Those who survived scream for help while those who have fallen under Frost's spell prepare you to come face-to-face with the frozen femme fatale. Be sure to keep your eyes open. You never know what's lurking behind every corner.
Captain's Revenge — Drowned in Darkness
Enchanting echoes and promises of fortunes untold have lured you aboard a lost vessel. However, those melodies prove malicious when a cursed crew driven mad by a siren emerges from the shadows of this shabby ship. Whistling winds and crashing waves will drown out your screams as Darkness falls and claims her victims. Be prepared to face the fury of an unforgiving sea. Fair winds, matey!
Swords clang and crows squawk as you make your way through this vexed vessel. All throughout this sunken ship, condemned crew mates warn you of Darkness' arrival. Be on the lookout as you make your way through a maze of Jolly Rogers and the captain's quarters. Just don't think about walking away with any booty.
Howl-O-Scream Orlando 2022 Scare Zones & Roaming Haunts
Our favorite thing about Howl-O-Scream: the scares and screams aren't confined to the houses. With several scare zones scattered around the park and blood-curdling beasts sneaking in the shadows, nowhere is truly safe. Be prepared and stay alert because you never know what haunts are waiting ahead of you in the thick fog ... or are silently lurking behind you. While we await word as to what to expect this year, let's take a look back at last year's positively petrifying scare zones and roaming haunts.
NEW! Terrors of the Deep
We all know the legend of the magnificent city lost to the depths of the ocean. Don't get too excited, though. Upon entering its gates, you'll soon realize a certain petrifying gorgon has made her home here. Even worse, her precious prisoners have escaped. Looks like your fate is written in stone.
Right by Shark Encounter is where you'll find this brand-new scare zone. Keep your guard up. You never know what's alive in this lost city. One thing we loved about this scare zone was the gnarly deep sea creatures that lurked about, looking for their next meal.
NEW! Cargo Carnage
This is one special delivery you'll never forget. Malevolent monsters and carnivorous creatures are prowling in these parcels, waiting for you to unbox them. The only way through this route: ground shipping. Do you have what it takes to arrive alive on the other side?
Just behind Voyager's Smokehouse is where you'll find this new scare zone. Bloodsucking bat-like creatures prepare you for an audience with Scratch. Just don't get lost in the fog.
NEW! Sea of Fear
The stories you've heard have only made you more curious. Beneath the waves lies the place where all the sea's menacing monsters reside — lurking on the ocean floor and awaiting your arrival. Don't expect a friendly welcome, though. Once you dive in, there's no turning back.
Filled with devious dancers, spooky stilt-walkers and sparks flying right by your feet if you're not paying close attention, this scare zone is the first one you'll brave as soon as you enter Howl-O-Scream. Welcome to the sirens' lair.
Deadly Ambush
A weekend getaway in the wilderness has turned into a nightmare with no escape. These cursed campgrounds are home to ferocious predators who are looking for their next meal. Scream all you want. There's no search party coming to rescue you.
This is quite possibly my favorite scare zone, and I'm so hoppy it returned in all its gory glory this year! The music is straight out of a jukebox and the screams are straight out of your worst nightmares. Trapped campers scream for help (for some, it's already too late) and traumatized rangers do their best to calm you down. Be careful in this thick fog. The wolves could be anywhere ... or anyone. You can find this freaky forest on the pathway next to Orca Encounter.
Witchcraft Bayou
This is no ordinary backwater bayou. This is the home of a crazed cult of voodoo worshippers and black magic practitioners. Even the strongest runes and wards won't be able to protect you from their sinister spells. Good luck getting out of here alive.
The waterway near Infinity Falls is once again the gathering place of these wicked witch doctors. Always looking for fresh ingredients, these students of the dark arts have their eyes on you.
Frozen Terror — Alive in the Ice
You've escaped the buried research facility, only to step into an Arctic wasteland inhabited by subhuman walkers with pickaxes and shovels, ready to turn you into one of them.
Just past Ice Breaker is where you'll find this returning scare zone. Base Camp Aura is not the only place Frost has worked her cold, dark magic. Frozen zombies can only moan as they warn you of your foreboding fate.
Cut Throat Cove
Shiver me timbers! You might have made it off the ship but vengeful spirits still lurk in these murky waters. Forever doomed to haunt the site of their horrific shipwreck, these moaning marauders have some unfinished business: seeking revenge on those who escaped their phantasmic fate. Be careful. These savage specters give no quarter to the unlucky landlubbers who cross their path.
The final scare zone is located right by the entrance to Seaport Theater and is absolutely a wild ruckus. These petrifying pirates aren't very familiar with the concept of personal space (which makes sense when you lived your life in cramped close quarters), so prepare to get very familiar with these frightening seafarers. Maybe have a piece of chicken on you, as well. I was asked if I had any.
Roaming Haunts
Watch out for sirens and their minions — you never know where one may wash ashore. Oh, and keep an eye on the bushes, too.
Howl-O-Scream Orlando 2022 Entertainment
We loved experiencing all the eerie entertainment at last year's event. While these shows are a great place to kick up your fins and catch your breath, don't get too comfortable. Danger and dread still lurk around every corner.
NEW! Lurking in the Depths: An Adventurer's Tale
You think you know all there is to know about the creatures of the deep? Think again. Meet Sam "Hud" Hudson, the famed explorer and siren hunter who's been dying to share his stories with you. This fishy firsthand account will feature rib-tickling tales and astounding anecdotes, arming you with the knowledge you need to face the sea's deadliest dwellers.
This new show which hoppens four times a night in the shadow of the Sky Tower is absolutely hilarious and packed with audience participation from start to finish. Depending on the crowd at each performance, it may be NSFT (not safe for tadpoles) so approach with caution. We hope Sam comes back next year with more monster hunting tips — if he's able to escape the clutches of the siren, that is. If you can stay up late enough, we highly recommend catching the last show of the night which still had a fair amount of seats still available by the time the show started.
Monster Stomp: Slasher Alley
Witness the terrifying tale of Jack the Ripper, London's most ruthless and cold-blooded killer in this electrifying musical spectacular set to a rocking modern score and featuring pulse-pounding percussion.
Featuring an epic soundtrack with killer tunes such as "Sucker for Pain" and "Bring Me to Life," an insanely talented troupe of xylophonists and an amazing squad of skeletal dancers, Monster Stomp is back and better than ever! You can get an audience with The Whitechapel Murderer three times a night at the Nautilus Theater.
Siren's Song
Do you feel something pulling you toward Wild Arctic Plaza? That might just be the call of Scratch, Hex, Frost, Darkness and Flame who have returned to Howl-O-Scream to share their stories and carry out their carnage. This diabolical 360-degree display filled with epic special effects and mesmerizing moves is truly a sight to behold. Just don't get pulled under.
Another fantastic show that has made its welcome return, Siren's Song hoppens four times a night. Be prepared to move around the plaza to get a great view of all the sirens as they sacrifice poor souls and reclaim what's rightfully theirs.
Rides Open During Howl-O-Scream 2022
Everything is scarier in the dark. When the sun goes down and monsters come out, enjoy Manta, the only flying coaster of its kind in Florida, Ice Breaker, SeaWorld's first launch coaster, Mako, USA Today's #1 Best Roller Coaster, and Infinity Falls, home to the tallest river rapid drop in Florida. (All rides weather permitting.) Wait times on opening night were below 15 minutes all night long last year! We loved conquering the dips and dives of Mako in pitch-black darkness.
Howl-O-Scream Orlando 2022 Food and Merchandise
Whether you needed some liquid bravery or were just parched from all that screaming, Howl-O-Scream unearthed several watering holes last year to wet your whistle ... and join in on the scares with some spooky surprises.
NEW! Allura's on the Rocks at Sharks Underwater Grill and Bar
Just because you've encountered her lair doesn't mean you're in danger ... yet. Order a drink and unwind. One wrong look, though, and that could be the last liquid to pass your lips.
Poison Grotto at Waterway Bar
Step into this overgrown lounge and quench your thirst with an array of intoxicating concoctions. Just don't froget to pay your respects to the vixen of the vines. She has eyes everywhere. Speaking of eyes, be sure to keep yours up. Alluring aerialists dance the night away just beneath the ceiling.
Sirens' Last Call at the Sea Harbor Pavilions
Let loose and grab a cold one at this rusted-out underground warehouse frequented by the siren's devoted followers. Pay your respects to the she-devil of the sea by ordering "The Siren's Kiss," an intoxicating potion that is sure to put you under her spell.
Tormented at Glacier Bar
Take refuge from the wintery wasteland and fuel up here. You can even control the fate of fellow survivors while they're braving the horrors beneath the ice.
Longshoreman Tavern at Flamecraft Bar
Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum! Drink and be merry at this seaside tavern where pirates frequent to warm their bellies and tell tall tales. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled. You might find that an old SeaWorld treasure has been (partially) resurrected. We loved joking with the jolly crew here! If you need a break from the screams, we highly recommend grabbing a cold one with these squiffy sailors.
Aside from the themed bars, you can grab grub at Waterway Grill and Altitude Burgers to fuel up for a night full of scares. In need of just a quick bite? Several snack locations are also available, such as Jack the Ripper Eats where you'll find the Jacked Up Burger, Crawling Cravings where you'll find the Chipotle Cricket Sandwich and Grasshopper Tacos and even a convenient pizza stand at the park exit selling pies and slices long after the sirens have descended back down to the depths of the sea.
Howl-O-Scream Orlando 2023 Tips
Buy Tickets in Advance
The last thing you want is to be waiting in line at Will Call or risking the possibility of tickets selling out for the night! The only surefire way to guarantee admission to the event is to purchase your tickets early online (plus it saves you time and money!).
Leave the Tadpoles Behind
With the plethora of violence and gore on display, the event is targeted at adults. We always leave Lily and Tad behind with the grandfrogs! While teenagers and children are allowed to attend, we do not recommend it for tadpoles younger than 13.
Dress Appropriately
Despite the sun going down, the hot and humid Florida weather keeps September and October nights warm. (You might run into some rain, so check the forecast before you head out in case you need to bring a poncho or umbrella.) Dress in clothes that allow you to stay cool, and opt for comfortable shoes. For the safety of the scare actors and other guests, costumes and masks that cover your entire face are not allowed.
Pay Attention in Scare Zones
I may be stating the obvious, but be aware of your surroundings as you walk through the scare zones. The scare actors like to get super close to you. But they will not touch you, and you should not touch them. Also, listen closely to what they have to say because they like to improvise. Be courteous of fellow guests too. You may have the gut instinct to run away at the sight of a siren, but you have to be careful not to bump into anyone else. If you prefer not to be scared in the scare zones, you can purchase a "No Boo" necklace for $15 plus tax (however, the necklace does not work in the houses).
Are you ready to face your greatest fears at SeaWorld Orlando's first-ever Howl-O-Scream? Let us know in the comments below what you're most excited about!
Related: Full Lineup of SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Events in 2022
Keep hopping!
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