13 Tips for Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream Survival
Are you ready to be paralyzed with terror? Do you have what it takes to venture out to Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream this year?
If so, you’re in for more than ghostly encounters with five demented houses, six terrifying scare zones, wickedly delicious food, top-notch entertainment and more!
In addition to all of the details you’ll need for your trip, I’ve also gathered the best tips to help you survive Howl-O-Scream , based on my most memorable past experiences.
So, let’s get started!
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What to Know Before You Go to Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens
Before we get into the tips, let’s go through a few things you can expect this year at Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream.
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream 2024 Dates
The 2024 dates for Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream dates are from September 6th through November 3rd of 2024, on select days Thursday through Sunday.
Times: Fridays & Saturdays from 7:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. and Thursdays & Sundays from 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
What Rides that Are Open During Howl-O-Scream?
Get up to 63% off of your Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream tickets with Groupon TODAY!
Howl-O-Scream Houses at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
There are three new haunted houses and seven main scare zones coming to Tampa’s Premier Halloween event! Let’s go through them all.
So far this year, there’s only been one reimagine house and one new house announced for 2023 and that is D.H. Baggum’s Circus of Fear where you’ll watch the most terrifying show you’ve ever seen…
1. Stranglewood Estate
Don’t let the grandiosity of the Stranglewood Estate fool you. Evil darkness now fills this once lively home sitting eerily in town…
2. Witch Of The Woods
Don’t get caught up in this deep, dark forest filled with no way out as you are summoned deeper and deeper into something wicked in the Witch of the Woods haunted house.
Recommended: Top 20 Places to Get the Best Lunch in Tampa! From Tacos to Burgers, We’ve Got You Covered.
3. The Forgotten: Uprising
The underground realm of vampires are waiting on you, its next victim, to be lured into the hidden world for some surprising hidden terrors that will be lurking around just for you in The Forgotten maze.
Recommended: 35 Scary and Fun Things to Do in Florida for Halloween
4. D.H. Baggum’s Circus of Fear (NEW)
You’ll want to avoid the deep depths of this bayou if you know what’s good for you…
Discover the spine-chilling world of D.H. Baggum and his frightful creations, which will surely leave you trembling in fear at the mesmerizing Circus of Fear!
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
5. The Residence: Home for the Holidays
Don’t let the suburban façade deceive you. This home holds sinister secrets that are waiting patiently for you to discover at your own demise in the The Residence haunted house.
Except that this house returns with a twisted holiday chill…
Hipster Power Tip: Don’t miss out on the CRASH TEST ZOMBIES that you can find on the Ubanga Banga Bumper Cars (If they return this year).
2023 Howl-O-Scream Scare Zones
- RAVENS MILL: Your worst nightmare is hidden within the foliage of the corn field of Raven’s Mill.
- BEYOND THE VEIL: Tucked deeply in the path of Nairobi is an evil presence taking form in the dark forest. Be sure to look out for fairies and orcs on your nighttime stroll.
- THE SHORTCUT: Don’t take the shortcut through the cemetery…
- BIG ED’S DEMOLITION DERBY (NEW): Prepare yourself to enter a twisted world where Big Ed has gathered the roughest, toughest, and meanest baddies from all corners of the event.
- THE JUNKYARD: You don’t want to become one of the scrap parts of the junkyard…do you?
- SIN CITY ZOMBIES (NEW): Located on the outskirts of the bustling Vegas strip, you will find a dilapidated motel that houses exceptional performers and is infested with relentless zombies.
- HIDDEN SCARE ZONE & ROAMING HORDES: Keep a look out for unexpected popups of demented creatures through hidden scares zones as you make your way through Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream. (Final details pending for 2023)
ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.
Howl-O-Scream Shows at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If you’re someone who likes a good bit of entertainment mixed in with all of the scares, then you’ll be happy to know that Howl-O-Scream will have a total of four shows this year plus karaoke!
However, the classic and popular show, Fiends, is not returning this year. This is so sad as it has always be a staple of Howl-O-Scream Tampa Bay.
1. Rock the Grave (NEW)
Discover the captivating Festival Fields stage at Busch Gardens Tampa, where you will be enthralled by the exhilarating Rock the Grave show.
This dynamic live performance seamlessly combines the genres of alternative, classic rock, and pop hits, resulting in a truly unforgettable and energetic experience.
Recommended: What’s the Best Breakfast in Tampa? 17 Places You MUST EAT TODAY!
2. Scare-E-Oke (NEW)
At this year’s Howl-O-Scream event at Busch Gardens Tampa, fans of the spooky festivities can now enjoy a thrilling new experience called Scare-E-Oke at Gwazi Plaza.
It’s an opportunity for you to step into the spotlight and take your turn behind the microphone, adding an extra level of excitement to the event.
3. The Rolling Bones
Be sure to catch a “live” performance of this boney band performing classic rock songs in the Dragon Fire Grill!
Recommended: 25 Fun and Free Things to Do in Tampa, Florida TODAY!
4. Cirque X-Scream
Get captivated by aerial performances and incredible stunts during the Cirque X-Scream this year at Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream in Tampa.
Recommended: Where to Stay in Tampa: 15 Best Hotels for ALL Budgets
5. Raveyard
Located at the Coke Canopy, Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa offers an exciting opportunity for you to dance and enjoy yourself until midnight.
The all-new Raveyard is a must-visit, providing a thrilling atmosphere with music and a wide selection of specialty cocktails to enhance the experience.
Get your cheap Busch Gardens Tickets with CityPASS TODAY!
How much does it cost to go to Howl-O-Scream in Tampa?
Prices start at $37.99 if purchased in advanced. Please remember that this ticket does NOT include your daytime admission to Busch Gardens.
You can however, get your Busch Gardens day ticket and Howl-O-Scream ticket on the official website.
Hipster Power Tip: Purchase the UNLIMITED ADMISSION TICKET to HOWL-O-SCREAM. It’s an incredible deal if you’re a big fan of the Halloween season as it will allow you to return to the event every night from September 8th through October 31st 2023 with prices starting at $104.99.
How to Get to Busch Gardens from Orlando?
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is about 70 miles from the Walt Disney World Resort (an hour and 25 minute drive).
There is a Busch Gardens shuttle service that offers round-trip transportation to the park.
The round-trip fare is free with park ticket purchase and departs Orlando daily with a maximum of three stops to Busch Gardens.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be reserved by calling 1-800-221-1339 or visit Mears Destination Services online.
Hipster Power Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the Shop Of Horrors to pick up some fun Howl-O-Scream souvenirs to commemorate your night.
How to Get to Busch Gardens Tampa from Disney World?
- Travel WEST on I-4 to I-75 (About 58 Miles)
- Merge onto I-75 NORTH via EXIT 9 toward Ocala (stay on I-75 for about 3.74 miles)
- Take EXIT 265 toward Temple Terrace (this exit is also the exit for the University of South Florida)
- You will merge onto E Fowler Ave/FL-582 W via EXIT 265 and stay on here for about 4.65 miles
- Turn left onto N McKinley Dr/County Hwy-585A (stay on here for about 1 mile)
- Make a U-turn onto N McKinley Dr/County Hwy-585A
- Arrive and park at Busch Gardens
Are you trying to choose between Halloween Horror Nights or Howl-O-Scream? Find out which one is better here!
What is Busch Gardens Tampa Address?
The address for Busch Gardens is 10165 N McKinley Drive Tampa, FL 33612.
What are Busch Gardens Tampa Hours?
Busch Gardens usually opens at 10:00 a.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m. However, during the peak summer days the park may be open until midnight.
Remember when planning your trip, always check the park’s website or mobile app for the current hours and wait times.
What should I pack for Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream?
- Comfy Shoes
- Small Bag
- Breathable Clothing
- Sun Protection
- Downloaded Howl-O-Scream Map
- Small Umbrella
- Water
- Hand Sanitizer
- Phone
- Howl-O-Scream Ticket
Get Your full Theme Park packing checklist here!
How to Survive Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (13 Pro Tips)
Although this year’s event is slightly altered, you use some of the tips below to help prepare for your 2024 Howl-O-Scream trip.
1. Start Early
I cannot express this enough. Unless you’re getting the Front Line Fear Pass, I would suggest you get to Busch Gardens at least 45-minutes before the start of the event.
If you’re lucky enough, you may be able to get into the park early and knock out two to three houses within the first hour.
2. Solo trip vs. Group trip
Going to Howl-O-Scream solo is terrifying, but quite an adventure in its own right.
However, going as a group is sooo much fun and increases the excitement of the night!
3. Should You Bring Your Kid to Howl-O-Scream?
Although you can purchase a No BOO Necklace (final details pending for 2023) to prevent the Busch Gardens monsters from scaring you, there’s an official statement from the park that you should look at.
According to Busch Gardens, Howl-O-Scream contains intense adult content such as violence, gore and blood and is not intended for children.
So, basically leave the kiddos at home.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
4. Know What to Wear to Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream
I recommend choosing comfort over style, but I understand if you’d rather be quite stylish.
I’m trying to get better at combining the two.
My top recommendation is to wear comfortable sneakers for all of the standing, walking, and running you will be doing…
…. trust me, you will thank me later.
5. Have a Game Plan and Itinerary for Howl-O-Scream
Get a park map and route your path around Busch Gardens in advance.
Ride the permanent attractions on another visit or wait until after you have finished all of the haunted mazes.
6. Attend Howl-O-Scream on Off Peak Nights
Visit Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream on Sundays or Thursdays to take advantage of the smaller crowd. Avoid Saturdays and holidays.
These are the worst days to go because you will not be able to enjoy all the houses. You will also have to fight through an extremely crowded night.
When is the best time to visit Howl-O-Scream?
The best time to attend Howl-O-Scream is during the first few opening weeks of the event.
7. Purchase Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream Tickets in Advance
It’s best to buy your tickets ahead of time. This prevents waiting in a line once you arrive at Howl-O-Scream.
The line to buy tickets can exceed the usual queue that’s operational during regular theme park hours.
Learn more about getting discounted ticket for Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream here!
The Unlimited Admission Ticket is a way for you to visit every night of Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay starts at $104.99 for unlimited visits (price subject to change).
You can also get the Two Park Unlimited Ticket to both Busch Gardens Tampa Howl-O-Scream and SeaWorld Orlando Howl-O-Scream from $178.99
I recommend buying your ticket from a trustworthy website such as Groupon or directly from Busch Gardens’ website.
Hipster Power Tip: If you’re and Annual Pass PLATINUM MEMBERS, then you can GET FREE ADMISSION ON OPENING WEEKEND of Howl-O-Scream. That’s such a great perk!
8. Buy Front Line Fear Pass
Howl-O-Scream is an extremely popular Halloween event in Florida. In order for you to enjoy your evening, you may want to splurge on a on a Front Line Fear Pass.
This special add-on gives you front-of-the-line access to haunted houses of your choice and special discounts at gift shops throughout the night.
Front Line Fear Howl-O-Scream 2023
This upgrade allows you to get front-of-the-line access to 5 haunted houses of your choice.
- Single-use front-of-the-line access to five houses
- Prices do change daily
- Front of the Line Fear Pass starts at $69
Front Line Fear Extreme Howl-O-Scream
This upgrade allows you to enjoy front-of-the-line access at 5 haunted houses and 9 major thrill rides of your choice.
- Single-use front-of-the-line access to five houses
- One-time front-of-the-line access to Serengeti Flyer, Falcon’s Fury, Cheetah Hunt, SheiKra, Montu, Kumba, Cobra’s Curse, Iron Gwazi, and Tigris.
- Prices change daily
- Front Line Fear Extreme Pass starts at $79
This will help you conquer each haunted house at Howl-O-Scream.
If you want to avoid spending extra money on the Front Line Fear Pass, then it’s best to get to Howl-O-Scream early. The wait times are shorter at the beginning of the event and also towards the end of the event.
9. Buy a Unique Experience
If being in a larger group with V.I.P perks appeals to you, then I recommend getting the Ultimate V.I.P. Tour.
You’ll get a guided tour through Howl-O-Scream Tampa. Each tour includes:
- Admission to Howl-O-Scream and private tour
- Unlimited front-of-the line access to haunted houses & thrill rides
- A private lounge as well as select bars offering complimentary beverages such as beer, water, and soda
- Complimentary dinner at Dragon Fire Grill
- Free preferred parking (subject to availability)
- Prices start at $249 per person (minimum of two people)
10. Purchase a Unique Activity at Howl-O-Scream
Do a behind-the-scenes tour at Busch Gardens.
This tour is one of my favorites as it allows you to tour a haunted house during the day to see what it takes to put this event.
Plus, you’ll get all the little details that you can’t see during the night. Mainly because you’re too occupied with screaming and running.
On this Howl-O-Scream tour you’ll:
- Learn what goes into the scares on this behind-the-scenes tour
- See one of the iconic houses in a new light, with a unique photo opportunity
- Includes a 1-time/1 house priority access to one of our houses at night during the event
- Daytime park admission is REQUIRED
- Cost is $29.99
11. Stay Hydrated
Howl-O-Screams requires A LOT of walking and sweating! Something Floridians are used to, but not a common thing for out-of-towners.
Plan to drink a few ounces of water every hour while at Howl-O-Scream.
12. Monitor the Weather
The weather in Florida from September to early November can range from extremely hot and humid to rainy and sometimes (very rare) cool October days.
Always check the weather to know what to expect. The weather will make or break your trip, especially if it’s scorching or if there’s a rainstorm.
13. Watch Vlogs
View vlogs (YouTube videos) such as Zombie Chris to help get you excited for Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream in Tampa Bay.
Personal vlogs will show you some of the things to expect and will let you know the intensity of the event.
The vlogs also show different ways people enjoy the spectacular annual event.
Recommended: 25 Fun and Free Things to Do in Tampa, Florida TODAY!
My Final Thoughts on Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream
Remember to just have fun!
You’re really going to have a great time, so try not to stress too much and enjoy the chilling frights of Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream!
I hope this survival guide helped you prepare for this year’s event. Remember that it is one of ThemeParkHipster’s favorite fall Florida event.
Let me know what your favorite Howl-O-Scream maze is of all time in the comments section below.
If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll love these:
- What to Pack for Howl-O-Scream?
- 17 Busch Gardens Rides and Attractions You Must Do!
- Halloween Horror Nights Survival Guide for Beginners
- Complete Guide to Busch Gardens Tampa
- Howl-O-Scream Tickets and Tip for Beginners (Podcast)
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
(Original Article Date: Fall 2012/Updated February 14, 2024)