Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando is a special ticketed event occurring multiple times a week through out the fall season. For 2022, tickets are available for select nights between September 2nd and October 31st. From haunted houses to scare zones to exclusive merchandise- Halloween Horror Nights has it all! Named Best Halloween Event by Amusement Today for 12 years running, for those looking for something more thrilling than Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, Horror Nights may just be your answer.
Not convinced? Castle Coach Nadia, our very own Halloween Horror Nights expert, graciously sat down for an interview and dished on all the gory details for what you can expect at Universal's premier event. Take a look below to learn more!
How would you describe Halloween Horror Nights to someone that has never been?
Universal’s Halloween Horror nights is unlike any other Halloween event. Coming from someone who has been to a countless number of haunted attractions throughout the years it is certainly unmatched. It is a must do for anyone who enjoys the spooky season and loves a good scare. There are 10 haunted houses, 5 scare zones, 2 live shows and we can’t forget about the thrill rides in the dark. The event changes every year and it always manages to get more exciting and even more frightening. There is something to see at every turn; you are completely immersed in a haunting experience.
What are your favorite things to do at the event?
The houses are definitely my favorite part. They are created inside actual movie production studios and are cinematic quality. They really make you feel like you are in the actual horror movie or theme they are representing. The special effects, props, scenes and actors are top notch. It is also the best time to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. You get to experience it at night and even ride Escape from Gringotts without a long wait.
Just how scary is it?
It is not for the faint of heart #nevergoalone
Can you dress in costume?
No, costumes are not allowed. They do however have a Tribute store where you can buy awesome Horror nights souvenirs based on the houses and scare zones of that year. You can get shirts, necklaces, glowing head bands and so much more to help represent your love of the event.
Do you recommend for children? If so, what age do you think is best?
This is definitely more of an adult event. I do see a few younger kids with their parents every year, but I wouldn’t bring any children under the age of 14.
Are the rides open?
Yes!! You can ride almost all of the attractions at Universal Studios during the event. Including Rip Ride Rockit, Transformers, The Mummy, and of course my favorite Escape from Gringotts.
What about food?
The food is awesome! They have food tents set up around Universal Studios that offer spooky themed eats as well as alcoholic concoctions that glow and always taste amazing. The food and drinks change every year with the theme of the event. When Stranger Things was the headlining house there were waffle themed treats everywhere. You also have a couple sit down options such as Mel’s “die in” which offers things like cheeseburgers and chicken fingers. There is Finnegan’s Bar and Grill which is an Irish pub offering corned beef sandwiches, bangers and mash and much more. I prefer to stick with the themed eats since they do change every year.
Any advice for someone attending for the first time?
Get the express pass which is a fast pass for the houses. It can seem a little overwhelming to someone who has never attended. There’s just so much to see and do that it’s hard to fit into one night. Without the pass you definitely need to attend multiple nights to see it all.
If you are unable to buy the passes I highly recommend entering during early entry to experience the shortest waits of the night. Anyone who has admission to Universal Studios during the day and HHN admission for that evening can use the early entry option. You will join a designated holding area and be among the first to enter the wait lines for the houses. There are different holding areas for different houses so you have to choose which one you would like to be in. In the holding areas there will be restrooms and food and drink options.
Also don't skip the shows! I feel like a lot of people do and they are always absolutely incredible!
Ticket prices for Universal's Halloween Horror Nights start at $73.99 (plus tax) per person and vary by date. The event is a separate ticketed event meaning you do not need Universal theme park admission if you have purchased a Horror Night ticket. As Castle Coach Nadia suggested, if you do have regular theme park admission for the day then you may enjoy the benefits of early entry to the event. Horror Nights begin promptly at 6:30pm at Universal Studios theme park only (not at Islands of Adventure or Volcano Bay), and those without tickets will have to exit the theme park.
Universal's Halloween Horror Nights Schedule |
September Dates • Sept. 2-4, 7-11, 15-18, 21-25, 28-30 October Dates • Oct. 1-2, 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-31 |
Interested in planning a Universal Orlando vacation and attending Halloween Horror Nights this fall? We can help! At Castle Coaches Travel our full service planning is complimentary when we book your vacation. Reach out to us today!
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