Hillsborough County, located in central Florida between Tampa and Orlando, is a top destination for Halloween enthusiasts. With a variety of attractions and events, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the spooky season.
From haunted trails and houses to family-friendly activities, Hillsborough County has it all. So get ready to scream and be scared as we take you through the top Halloween destinations in Hillsborough County.
Haunted Hayrides Near Me
Haunted hayrides have become increasingly popular as a fun and spooky activity for Halloween. These rides offer a unique and immersive experience, taking you through dark and eerie landscapes while encountering terrifying creatures and scenes.
One of the top haunted hayrides in Hillsborough County can be found in Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail, dubbed as Legends of Halloween. Located in Plant City, this outdoor haunted attraction also features three more experiences, namely Moonlight Massacre, Tales of the Dead, and Wicked Waters to satisfy all your Halloween cravings. You can also try their 3-minute Escape Games and Axe Throwing in the Midway.
Another popular option is the Fearville at DK Farms and Gardens in Largo, which includes access to the farm, animal exhibits, and a haunted hayride through a hillbilly trail.
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the House of Gilgamesh in Spring Hill offers free entry with a donation of cash or nonperishable food items.
Don’t miss out on these thrilling hayrides and be sure to check for any special deals or promotions currently available. Happy haunting!
Family-Friendly Fun
Halloween in Hillsborough County is the perfect time for families to come together and enjoy some spooky fun. With a variety of family-friendly events and activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some top attractions that are suitable for families with children:
Lowry Park Zoo’s Creatures of the Night: This event offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including a Halloween-themed light show, a pumpkin patch, and a costume contest. Plus, it’s included in the price of admission or membership. Source
SHIMMERING LIGHTS FALL WALK THE LIGHTS: This event at Westgate River Ranch offers a 1/3-mile walking trail with themed light displays, outdoor movies, and a pumpkin maze. It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit with the whole family. Source
Dinosaur World’s Halloween Spooktacular: Enjoy the park’s Halloween decorations and, of course, the dinosaurs. No extra ticket is required, just the regular park admission. Source
There are also many other kid-friendly events happening during the Halloween season, such as the Halloween Spree at Glazer Children’s Museum and Fall Fest by Tampa Bay Moms Group. Families can also make the most out of their Halloween experience by checking out the Tampa Bay Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festival Guide and trying out some DIY costume ideas and spooky snacks. With so many options, families are sure to have an unforgettable Halloween experience in Hillsborough County.
Thrilling Haunted Houses
For thrill-seekers and horror enthusiasts, there’s no better way to get your scare on than by visiting one of the many haunted houses in Hillsborough County. From traditional haunted houses to interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Halloween season.
One of the top haunted houses in the area is Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail, located in Plant City. This outdoor trail offers multiple experiences for guests, including three haunted trails, a haunted hayride, an escape game, and even laser tag. Another must-visit haunted house is A Petrified Forest: Storytime P Slayhouse in Alamonte Springs, featuring three terrifying trails to explore with your date.
For a truly terrifying experience, check out Scream-A-Geddon, with six different attractions, including Zombie Paintball Assault. The midway is also its own kind of attraction with terrifying monsters, food and beer options, and more.
If you’re looking for a year-round haunted house, check out Mortem Manor in Kissimmee. This two-story haunted house offers scares and thrills all year long, but is especially popular during the Halloween season. And for a unique experience, head to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for their Howl-O-Scream event, where the entire park is transformed into a spooky haven.
Ticket prices for these haunted houses vary, with some starting at $20 and others at $79.99 and up. Opening hours also vary, so be sure to check the websites for specific dates and times. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit these thrilling haunted houses and make this Halloween a memorable one.
Pumpkin Patches and Fall Activities
As Halloween approaches, one popular tradition that many families enjoy is visiting pumpkin patches and participating in fall activities. Luckily, Hillsborough County has a variety of options to choose from.
Southern Hill Farms is a must-visit for its 5-acre corn maze, u-pick sunflowers and zinnias, pumpkin patch barn, kids zone, and delicious apple cider donuts. Fruitville Grove’s Annual Pumpkin Patch Festival in Sarasota offers a fun family-friendly atmosphere with activities such as a butterfly garden, pony rides, family circus, and pumpkin patch. Beasley Farms is hosting its first pumpkin festival with a sun hemp and corn maze, u-pick sunflowers, farm animals, and fresh produce for purchase.
For a more spooky experience, check out Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City, featuring three haunted trails, laser tag, and an escape room. And for a classic fall activity, head to one of the many corn mazes in the area, such as those in Brandon, Plant City, and Spring Hill.
These pumpkin patches and fall activities are perfect for incorporating into your Halloween plans in Hillsborough County. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a fright-filled night, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your pumpkin carving tools and get ready for a memorable Halloween experience.
Spookiest Haunts in Florida
Hillsborough County is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, but it’s also home to some of the spookiest haunts in Florida. From ghostly sightings to unexplained occurrences, these attractions are sure to give you a fright this Halloween season.
One of the most infamous haunts in the county is the Fort Brooke parking garage, where the spirits of two soldiers from the Seminole War are said to roam. Another must-visit is the Tampa Theatre, where the ghosts of a former projectionist and organist are said to still linger.
For a truly eerie experience, head to the Don CeSar hotel, where the ghost of its original owner is said to still wander the halls. And don’t miss out on the Old Tampa Book Company, rumored to be inhabited by murderous ghosts.
For the full spooky experience, it’s recommended to visit these haunts at night. Tickets prices and opening hours vary for each attraction, so be sure to check their websites for more information. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for any ghostly sightings!
Conclusion
Hillsborough County, Florida, is home to some of the best haunted attractions for an unforgettable Halloween experience. From the spooky Matilda at Center Place to the top-ranked Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail, there is something for everyone in this county.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the Halloween magic in Hillsborough County. Plan a visit to one of the haunted houses or events mentioned in this article and get ready for a night of scares and thrills.
But remember, safety should always come first. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines and precautions at these attractions. And most importantly, have fun and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones during the Halloween season in Hillsborough County.
Sources: Haunted Places in Hillsborough County, Florida, Hillsborough County Halloween Attractions & Events, Haunted Houses and Attractions to Visit this September and October
