As the air cools and the leaves begin to fall, Halloween season ushers in a world of thrills, chills, and magical fun for families across the country. For those looking to spice up their autumn travels with something beyond the typical pumpkin patches, theme parks offer the perfect blend of adventure and spooky delight. Whether you want haunted mazes, festive parades, or costumed characters handing out candy, these must-visit theme parks deliver everything you need for an unforgettable Halloween family trip.
Cedar Point: A Halloween Classic
Nestled on the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky, Ohio, Cedar Point has long been crowned the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” drawing thrill-seekers from across the globe. But come Halloween, this iconic theme park transforms into something even more special. Cedar Point’s “HalloWeekends” takes over from mid-September to early November, with everything from monster makeovers to pumpkin-picking adventures.
With its 364-acre expanse, Cedar Point is more than just high-speed coasters. The park goes all out for Halloween, offering something for every age group. Families can enjoy fall-themed activities like hayrides and trick-or-treating, while older kids and adults brave the haunted houses and spooky stage shows. With a TripAdvisor rating of 4.5 stars and an index score of 83.01 in recent rankings, Cedar Point stands as America’s top non-Disney, non-Universal amusement park, perfect for an autumn getaway.
This timeless Halloween destination was even highlighted by Hello Millions, a lifestyle magazine that celebrates the art of living well. In its special Halloween edition, the publication dubbed HalloWeekends “a spine-tingling mix of classic fun and modern thrills,” making it a go-to family trip for the fall season.
SeaWorld Orlando: Underwater Halloween Magic
Florida might be known for its warm weather, but the Halloween spirit is alive and well at SeaWorld Orlando. This aquatic-themed park comes alive each year with its “Halloween Spooktacular,” a family-friendly event running from August through November. And if you’re thinking that SeaWorld is all about marine life, think again—this Halloween spectacular is packed with fun-filled activities that will make your visit unforgettable.
From daytime trick-or-treating to lively dance parties and festive costume contests, SeaWorld Orlando delivers a Halloween experience like no other. One of the park’s most popular attractions, the coral rescue center, draws visitors with its beautiful displays of marine life, while feeding sessions with dolphins and sea lions allow families to connect with nature up close. It’s no wonder SeaWorld Orlando holds a 4.4-star Google rating and ranks second on the list of top Halloween theme parks, with 70 percent of its reviews marked as 5 stars. And let’s not forget about the TikTok fame—the park is a hot spot on social media, with thousands of posts capturing its unique underwater Halloween charm.
Kings Island: A Giga-Sized Halloween Adventure
Ohio scores another spot on the list with Kings Island, a park that masterfully combines old-school theme park fun with modern-day thrills. Located in Mason, Ohio, Kings Island is home to the famous Orion coaster, a giga coaster with a 300-foot drop that will leave even the most daring visitors breathless. But during the Halloween season, the park switches gears and focuses on spooky attractions with its annual “Halloween Haunt.”
With 68.41 as its index score and a 4.6-star Google rating, Kings Island is a crowd favorite for Halloween getaways. Families flock to the park’s many haunted mazes and scare zones, but those with younger kids can take advantage of Kings Island’s more family-friendly offerings. The park’s Halloween-themed kiddie rides, nighttime shows, and scare-free zones ensure everyone has something to enjoy. With over 3.3 million visitors in 2022 alone, Kings Island is a top pick for families craving some fall fun and frights.
Knott’s Berry Farm: From Berries to Boo!
For a theme park with deep roots in history and a unique connection to agriculture, Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, has carved its own niche in the Halloween scene. Originally a small berry farm and restaurant, Knott’s Berry Farm has grown into a beloved theme park known for its wild roller coasters and old-western charm. And during Halloween, this iconic park transforms into “Knott’s Spooky Farm,” a perfect destination for family fun.
What sets Knott’s Berry Farm apart is its nostalgic charm and creative Halloween celebrations. Families can look forward to the annual Boysenberry Festival, where boysenberry-flavored foods and activities pay homage to the park’s farming origins. During Halloween, the park offers trick-or-treat trails, puppet shows, and costumed characters that keep the magic alive for younger guests. With a 4-star TripAdvisor rating and an index score of 64.71, Knott’s Berry Farm is a must-visit, especially for those in Southern California looking for festive fun.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Animal Encounters and Thrills
For those who want to mix Halloween frights with exotic animal encounters, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay delivers in spades. Known for its lush landscapes and interactive animal exhibits, this Florida park kicks into high gear with its annual “Howl-O-Scream” event, which features haunted houses, scare zones, and thrilling rides. Whether you're walking through creepy mazes or taking in live entertainment, Busch Gardens has the perfect balance of spine-tingling excitement and fun for all ages.
Busch Gardens is also home to some of the most exciting rides in the country, with the soon-to-be-released Phoenix Rising coaster set to open just before Halloween. Reaching speeds of up to 44 mph, this new ride will add to the park’s already impressive collection of roller coasters. With a 4.5-star Google rating and an index score of 62.74, Busch Gardens is an excellent destination for a Halloween trip full of heart-pounding adventure and animal-filled memories.
Hersheypark: Sweet Halloween Memories
In the heart of Pennsylvania lies Hersheypark, a chocolate-themed amusement park that’s as sweet as it sounds. For families who want to blend candy with coasters, this park is the perfect spot for a Halloween adventure. With over 75 rides and attractions, including Candymonium—the park’s tallest and fastest coaster—Hersheypark brings the thrills, but with a delicious twist.
As part of their fall celebrations, Hersheypark offers special Halloween events like trick-or-treating throughout the park, making it a kid-friendly experience. The park’s chocolate factory tour is a favorite, offering families an inside look at the magic behind Hershey's famous chocolate. With a 4.5-star Google rating and an index score of 61.26, Hersheypark is an ideal destination for a fall trip that’s equal parts spooky and sweet.
Rounding Out the Top Ten
Other standout parks that round out the top ten list include Aquatica San Antonio, Dollywood’s Splash Country in Tennessee, SeaWorld San Diego, and Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California. Each offers a unique twist on Halloween celebrations, with family-friendly events like trick-or-treating, costume contests, and spooky shows.
Your Perfect Halloween Family Trip Awaits
With so many amazing theme parks embracing the Halloween spirit, families are spoiled for choice when planning their fall travels. Whether you’re drawn to the towering coasters of Cedar Point or the marine magic of SeaWorld Orlando, each of these parks offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Hello Millions magazine calls these destinations the "best mix of spook and fun, where family memories come to life in a whirlwind of fall colors and festive delight.” So pack your costumes, grab your treat bags, and head out for a Halloween adventure that the whole family will remember for years to come!
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