Your ultimate Halloween travel guide to Orlando in 2025

Orlando transforms into a Halloween destination with blockbuster theme park events, haunted houses, and citywide festivities. From Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, the city offers everything from family-friendly trick-or-treating to late-night scares. Expect creative costumes, immersive attractions, and a festive atmosphere across neighborhoods and parks.

What to expect in Orlando during Halloween

Character in horror makeup at Universal Horror Nights, Orlando.
Halloween decorations with skeletons, pumpkins, and cobwebs on a New York City brownstone stoop.
Person in a horned mask holding a torch during a Halloween parade.
Feeding capybaras at Gator Park Drive-Thru Safari, Orlando.
Halloween-themed cookies shaped like pumpkins and bats on a black plate.
Costumed participants at a Halloween parade with a fiery skull, bandaged nurse, and zombie makeup.
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Theme park transformations

Universal Studios and Walt Disney World unveil elaborate Halloween overlays, haunted mazes, and after-hours parties, drawing visitors from around the world.

Citywide decorations

Downtown Orlando, Winter Park, and local neighborhoods feature pumpkin displays, spooky storefronts, and themed pop-up markets.

Haunted houses and scare zones

From professional haunted attractions to neighborhood setups, you’ll find jump-scare corridors, fog-filled walkways, and costumed actors throughout the city.

Family-friendly festivals

Orlando’s zoos, museums, and parks host daytime events with crafts, costume contests, and safe trick-or-treating for all ages.

Seasonal food and drink

Local restaurants and bars serve up pumpkin-flavored treats, themed cocktails, and autumn menus, perfect for a festive night out.

Mild autumn weather

Expect comfortable evenings, ideal for outdoor events, parades, and exploring the city’s decorated streets.

Top things to do for Halloween in Orlando

Pick your Halloween event

EventLocationDescription
Scary zombie man with decayed face and finger to lips, Halloween theme.

Mortem Manor

SeaWorld Orlando

Trick-or-treating, crafts, kids’ activities

Scary zombie man with decayed face and finger to lips, Halloween theme.

A Petrified Forest

Old Town Kissimmee

Year-round haunted house, live actors

Scary zombie man with decayed face and finger to lips, Halloween theme.

Winter Park Pumpkin Patch

Altamonte Springs

Outdoor haunted trails, interactive scares

Enzian Theater Popcorn Flicks

Winter Park

Pumpkin picking, family activities

Halloween Horror Nights

Central Park, Winter Park

Outdoor Halloween movie screenings

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Universal Studios Orlando

Movie-inspired haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows

Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins

Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom

Family-friendly parades, fireworks, and trick-or-treating

ICON Park Trick-or-Treat Nights

Gatorland

Interactive scare zones, themed shows, and family activities

ICON Park

Trick-or-treating, costume contests, and themed attractions

Plan your Halloween in Orlando

Halloween around Orlando

Scary zombie man with decayed face and finger to lips, Halloween theme.

Universal Studios scare zones

Fog-filled streets, costumed actors, and movie-inspired haunted houses create an immersive, cinematic Halloween atmosphere.

Guests in costumes enjoying Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney Resort, Orlando.
Pumpkins on hay bales at a barn.
Ferris wheel illuminated at night with colorful lights at Icon Park, Orlando.
Man interacting with an albino alligator at Gatorland.

Tips for visiting Halloween in Orlando

  • Book theme park event tickets well in advance; Halloween Horror Nights and Disney parties often sell out.
  • Weekday evenings are less crowded than weekends for most events.
  • Costumes are welcome at many events, but check park guidelines for age and prop restrictions.
  • Orlando evenings in October are mild, but bring a light jacket for outdoor events.
  • Use rideshare or public transit to avoid parking delays at major attractions.
  • Family-friendly events are plentiful, but some haunted houses may have age restrictions.
  • Check for special accessibility accommodations at theme parks and attractions.
  • Plan extra time for security checks and bag inspections at large venues.

Frequently asked questions about spending Halloween in Orlando

What are the best theme park events for Halloween in Orlando?

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are the most popular, each offering a unique experience for different age groups.

Can I wear a costume to Orlando theme parks during Halloween?

Costumes are allowed at Halloween events, especially at Disney’s party, but there are guidelines on masks and props.

Are there family-friendly Halloween activities in Orlando?

Yes, many attractions like Gatorland, SEA LIFE Orlando, and local museums offer daytime events suitable for children and families.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance for Halloween events?

Advance purchase is strongly recommended for major events, as they often sell out weeks ahead of time.

What can I do near Orlando besides Halloween events?

If you want a change of pace, head to the Kennedy Space Center. Just an hour away, it lets you explore space shuttles, see rocket launches (on select days), and learn about NASA missions- an inspiring contrast to Orlando’s Halloween thrills.

What’s the weather like in Orlando during Halloween?

Expect mild evenings, with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F. Occasional rain is possible, so bring a light jacket or poncho.

Are there any free Halloween events in Orlando?

Many neighborhoods and community centers host free trick-or-treating and festivals, especially in downtown and Winter Park.

Can I use a Go City Orlando Pass for Halloween attractions?

The Go City Orlando Pass covers many top attractions, but special Halloween events at theme parks may require separate tickets.

Is Orlando safe for families during Halloween?

Orlando is  safe, especially in tourist areas and theme parks. Always follow event guidelines and keep an eye on children in crowded spaces.