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Writer's pictureChrissa Karnes

Surviving the Haunting: 2023 Guide to Howl-O-Scream's Twisted Realms in Busch Gardens, Tampa!

Updated: Jun 6



Busch Gardens Tampa has transformed into a realm of terror with the arrival of Howl-O-Scream, a spine-chilling Halloween event that continues to haunt visitors until October 31st on select nights. In this guide, we'll delve into the heart-pounding scare zones, explore the haunted houses, and offer valuable tips to help you plan your night of frights.


A Glimpse of Howl-O-Scream Tampa


Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event, inviting thrill-seekers into a world of darkness and fear. Ticket prices for this year's event start at $44.99, with options like the Any Night ticket starting at $69.99, providing flexibility for your visit. For those eager to embrace the terror on multiple occasions, Unlimited Admission Tickets are available, beginning at $104.99.


Unveiling the Horrors of FIVE Haunted Houses


Prepare yourself for an encounter with the macabre within the five haunted houses scattered throughout the park.



D.H. Baggum’s Circus of Fear: Witness monstrous spectacles that will send shivers down your spine. You’ll encounter the most terrifying show you’ve ever seen. D.H. Baggum brings you all his monstrosities that are sure to make your spine tingle and your blood run cold!



Stranglewood Estates: Venture deeper into the darkness at a once-vibrant home that has new scares and effects for 2023. This house used to be a home that was filled with laughter and held lavish parties, but now it is only darkness and evil that fill its halls.




The Residence: Home for the Holidays: where festive celebrations have turned deadly. In this house, you’ll walk through a suburban family home where the festivities have turned murderous and new horrors are just waiting to get unwrapped and there is no guarantee that you’ll survive this silent night.



The Revamped Forgotten House: In this house, a year has passed, and more and more people have gone missing. Now, a battle has begun and the only way to survive is to be brave, and fearless, and hopefully, you’ll survive the night.





The Witch of the Woods: A returning favorite this year. In this house, an ominous legend will summon you with an inescapable curse. Travelers from all over wander into this dark first but only dark tales of their screams ever make their way out.



Scare Zones...Where Nowhere Is Safe:


After braving the haunted houses, face the relentless terror of the six scare zones, along with roaming haunts that lurk in unexpected corners.


Sin City Zombies: welcomes you to a Vegas strip overrun by the undead. This brand new scare zone for this year is where you'll walk through the outskirts of the Vegas strip that is overrun by zombies.


Big Ed’s Demolition Derby: Big Ed has pulled together all the toughest and meanest baddies from all over Howl O Scream and brought them here to compete. And you can always join in and try your hand against these baddies in this bumper car demolition derby.


The Shortcut: You might think that cutting through this cemetery might seem like a good idea… However, there is no easy way out. You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled because you might just see corpses rise right out of the ground and you’ll have to escape before they take you back with them.


Raven’s Mill: In this area, you’ll find yourself walking through a nightmare as the scarecrows come alive around you.


Beyond the Veil: Beyond the Veil is another returning scare zone but in a new location this year. In this zone, you’ll walk a path that takes you into the depths of a dark forest where fairies and orcs will reveal themselves in this beautiful yet haunting organic forest.


The Junkyard: The Junkyard is where you’ll find yourself in the middle of a very creepy scrap site. In this junkyard, you’ll have to do your best to stay alive before you get devoured by the haunted rubble.


Remember, in Howl-O-Scream, nowhere is truly safe, as roaming hordes can strike when least expected, keeping you on the edge of your seat.


Mesmerizing Shows and Themed Bar Experiences:


Catch your breath at the various shows and experiences scattered across the park.


Scare-E-Oke invites you to serenade the crowd with your favorite tunes, while Rock the Grave delivers haunting melodies and heart-pounding beats. The Rolling Bones offers epic rock classics inside the Dragon Fire Grill, and Cirque X-Scream dazzles with electrifying stunts at the Stanleyville Theatre.


Don’t miss the themed bars, including the electrifying Raveyard at the Coke Canopy, where specialty cocktails and music add to the eerie ambiance.


Open Rides, Merch, and Essential Tips:


For those craving even more excitement, several rides remain open, ensuring there's no shortage of thrills throughout the night.


The Rotting Pig, located at the park's entrance, offers a wide array of spooky souvenirs to commemorate your night.


Here are a few essential tips to enhance your Howl-O-Scream experience:

  • Remember, Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event, and regular day tickets do not grant access.

  • To beat the crowds, consider Front Line Fear Passes for expedited entry or Ultimate VIP Tours for exclusive behind-the-scenes access and more.

  • No-boo necklaces are available to ward off scares if you prefer a fright-free experience.

  • Plan ahead and empty your containers before arrival, as outside food and drinks are not permitted.

  • Costumes, masks, and accessories are not allowed, and the event takes place rain or shine with no re-entry.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable night of fear at Howl-O-Scream, where terror lurks around every corner and nightmares come to life. Will you survive the night? Only time will tell.


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