5 ways for families to get spooky at Orlando theme parks

While adults enjoy Halloween Horror Nights and SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O- Scream, families love these ways to get spooky at Orlando theme parks. Instead of filling the darkness with over the top frights, these options are a little more sweet. Don’t let the witching hour pass without enjoying a little Halloween fun.

Universal Orlando Scarecrow Stalk

Going to a theme park can be filled with all types of adventures. Even annual passholders can find new hidden gems that can sometimes be overlooked. During this year’s Universal Orlando Scarecrow Stalk, everyone can journey around Universal Studios, Universal Islands of Adventure and City Walk to find a variety of Halloween displays.

During various special events, Universal Orlando offers these types of scavenger hunts. The map shows a variety of stops where guests get a completion stamp. When the whole quest is completed, there is one big “finisher” treat. For Halloween, the event comes with a few extra treats along the way.

This year the scarecrows have various themes, based on their locations. From the Chaos Theorist scarecrow is definitely a highlight.

Overall, this idea is a fun way to spend the day or just give guests a break from ride after ride. Or, for someone who just really wants to explore the parks, this event ensures that you see it all.

SeaWorld Orlando Spooktacular

While the sirens have a sinister tale to warn guests at night, the SeaWorld Orlando Spooktacular is for the families. As all the Sesame Street characters parade through the park, families can “count” all the Halloween fun.

Throughout the Orlando theme park, there are plenty of ways to fill that candy bag with goodies. Even if the costumes aren’t part of the visit, the family friendly Halloween fun is a great way to spend the day.

Magic Kingdom

Although the after hours Boo Bash might not be in everyone’s Disney Parks price range, the Magic Kingdom is well-decorated for Halloween. Even though all the Walt Disney World theme parks are celebrating the 50th anniversary, the special Mickey Pumpkins and decorations on Main Street make for some fun family photos. For some people, it is an annual tradition.

Legoland Florida Brick or Treat

The family-centric theme park, Legoland Florida has brought back its Brick or Treat. The Lego characters are all dressed up for the event. Guests can visit various candy stations throughout the theme park. Overall, it is a fun way to spend the day or night.

Harry Potter Dark Arts

Although maybe not necessarily for the youngest guests, Hogwarts Castle has been cast in a Dark Arts spell this Halloween season. As night falls, the shadows transform their magic in the sky. Since Harry Potter is often a family-centric experience, this special event can be a good option for families with older kids, but it is not as scary as Halloween Horror Nights.

Bonus: Gaylord Palms

While many people love the holiday extravaganza at Gaylord Palms, the resort has gone all in for Halloween with its Goblins and Giggles weekend. Of course, the parents love visiting the Spook-Easy for some of the best themed cocktails around, there are plenty of Halloween events for all ages.

The Monster School is where the kids can learn all about the best monster-related fun. As guests sing and dance their way through each lesson, the kids will be ready to mash all those frights away.

From trick or treating around the atrium to photos with pumpkins to even a Halloween themed escape room, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a little family activities. And, don’t forget about some of the Florida wildlife in the atrium. From the gators to the snakes, those creatures can add a little creepy to the cute Halloween activities.

What is your favorite way to get spooky at Orlando theme parks? Do you plan visits around holiday activities?