Best Amusement Parks to Visit in the Fall

As summer winds down and kids settle into back-to-school mode, theme parks across the country prepare for the cooler months ahead with seasonal events and activities to usher in the fall spooky season. If you’re looking for fun things to do in September and October, look no further than your favorite theme park; we’ve compiled a list of the best amusement parks to visit in the fall whether you’re looking for fall fun, spooky pumpkin themes or terrifying Halloween thrills; there’s something for everyone in the family. 

Best Amusement Parks to Visit in the Fall in Central Florida

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 

When it comes to family-friendly Halloween fun, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is probably the most well-known. If you’re looking for a fun, Halloween party geared toward kids of all ages, this is the Disney event for you. Magic Kingdom closes early to regular guests, and party guests can enter at 4 p.m.; but the party doesn’t truly kick off until 7 p.m., when the treat-stations for trick-or-treating open up. 

Mickey’s Boo-to-You parade is the highlight of the party. Characters will be dressed in their Halloween outfits on fun Halloween floats and the iconic Headless Horseman will come galloping down Main Street. In addition to the parade and trick-or-treating throughout the park, the party includes themed shows and exclusive character meet-and-greets. MNSSHP is sure to be a memorable night for the whole family. And, whether you’re headed to MNSSHP or not, consider sharing these fun Halloween Minnie Mouse Bundt Cakes with your family this spooky season!

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights

Universal’s Halloween event is not for the faint of heart; Halloween Horror Nights is full of scare zones, gory sights, monsters, and live shows full of jump scares and creepiness.  The atmosphere is a mix of horror, satire, and edginess; geared more toward adults and older teens than children.  If you’re up for the challenge, Halloween Horror Nights promises a night of adrenaline-pumping scares and immersive storytelling. Check out this first-timer’s guide before you go!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 

If you have an eclectic mix of family members to please, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay might be one of the best amusement parks to visit in the fall. It truly offers something for everyone. For adults and older kids, Howl-O-Scream is a mix of live shows, scare zones, and haunted houses perfect for those with a little more tolerance for horror. The family-friendly Spooktacular event is harvest-themed not-so-spooky Halloween fun, with interactive experiences and trick-or-treating throughout the park. 

Fall Fun in the South

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival

Just outside of Gatlinburg is Dollywood Theme Park; Dolly Parton’s very own theme park nestled in the Smoky Mountains. Each fall, Dollywood’s Harvest Festival brings a celebration of the season with delicious treats and fun events like the Great Pumpkin LumiNights featuring over 12,000 glowing pumpkins and the not-to-be-missed, Hoot Owl Hollow. 

Aside from the world-class attractions, like Big Bear Mountain and the Dollywood Express, guests can explore the works of artisans and craftsmen the world over. They can also try delicious seasonal treats and of course experience an all-star lineup of live musicians throughout the season. 

Carowinds’ Tricks and Treats and SCarowinds

Carowinds Theme Park property spans parts of both North and South Carolina and is tons of fun at Christmas and Halloween. SCarowinds runs from September to just before Halloween. It features a variety of family-friendly activities and celebrations. These include Oktoberfest, mazes, scary shows, scare zones, and fun seasonal snacks and beverages.  

Mid-Atlantic Halloween Mayhem 

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Like its Florida counterpart, Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia is an eclectic mix of scary and spooky. The Sesame Street-themed, Count’s Spooktacular is ideal for families and Howl-O-Scream is great for the more adventurous. It has haunted houses, scare zones, and thrill-seeking fun lurking around every corner. Fun fact: we had our second wedding in Colonial Williamsburg and instead of having a rehearsal, we all went to Howl-O-Scream.

Hersheypark’s Halloween Festivities

Of course, you would expect Hershey Park to have a Trick-or-Treat candy trail for guests visiting during Halloween. But, did you know, there are also amazing treats, dance parties, and special add-on events to be had? And for the thrill-seekers, HersheyPark Halloween features the spine-chilling Dark Nights event that will scare even the bravest visitors. 

The West Coast’s Best Amusement Parks to Visit in the Fall 

Knott’s Berry Farm 

Knott’s Berry Farm offers fun fall and Halloween experiences tailored for all ages. Buena Park is home to Knott’s Spooky Farm and it is perfect for families. Featuring live entertainment, activities, and costume contests, you won’t want to miss this event. As the sun sets, Knott’s Scary Farm comes alive with terrifying monsters and haunting attractions. Scary Farm is not recommended for children under 13, offering a more intense Halloween experience.

Disneyland Park and California Adventure

Disneyland Resort celebrates fall and Halloween with Halloween Time, a fun experience where your favorite attractions get their seasonal overlays. From themed parades to seasonal treats and character meet-and-greets, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season. The Oogie Boogie Bash is the West Coast’s version of Walt Disney World’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. It offers trick-or-treating, live entertainment, and fun character interactions.   

If you’re not staying home to trick-or-treat or give out candy on Halloween, visiting a theme park might be a fun idea for the family. Or, if you’re not a Halloween family, the harvest themes are plentiful in the theme parks. It’s easy to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season without the spookiness. A theme park visit is especially helpful if you have kids in those in those in-between stages. You know, the ones who feel as though they’re too old to go out trick-or-treating but still want to dress up and do something fun? Make the most of the spooky season and head to your nearest amusement park!