Spooky season is officially here and that means it’s time for sweet treats and terrifying frights. Whether you have budding trick-or-treaters or teenagers looking for a scare, head to these nearby amusement parks this Halloween season.
Busch Gardens
Through November 2
Once the sun sets, the creatures come out to play at Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream. Explore each country throughout the park to find five terrifying haunted houses and 6 Terror-Tories. This year’s haunt lineup includes two new haunted houses, three new Terror-Tories, and plenty of favorites. You can also add on behind-the-scenes tours to see how your favorite haunts and sinister shows come to life. 1 Busch Gardens Blvd., Williamsburg, starting at $55.99
Hersheypark
September 12–November 2
The sweetest place on Earth becomes one of the scariest once Halloween hits. Haunted houses, scare zones, and treats transform Hersheypark into a terror zone. This year, the Dark Nights experience includes five haunted houses and four scare zones. For those who want to avoid the frights, experience the rides at night or fill up with the Halloween tasting pass. 100 W. Hersheypark Dr., Hershey, Pennsylvania, starting at $49.99
Six Flags America
September 13–November 2
Make one last visit to Six Flags America before it closes for good. While the park is skipping its annual haunts, it is still hosting the Kids Boo Fest. The family-friendly experience lets guests go down the trick-or-treat trail, watch monsters, magicians, and circus performers, and dance along at Wolfie’s Howl-O-Ween Party. 13710 Central Ave., Bowie, starting at $29
Kings Dominion
September 19–November 2
Immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit when you visit Halloween Haunt. The seasonal event has something for everyone — six indoor and outdoor haunted mazes, five scare zones, and three Halloween-themed shows. Kings Dominion also hosts other holiday events during the fall, including Tricks and Treats, for families with children under the age of 13, and Oktoberfest. 16000 Theme Park Way, Dowell, starting at $49
Great Wolf Lodge
September 25–October 31
Even one of the region’s favorite indoor water parks is celebrating Halloween. At Howl-O-Ween, lodge guests can join the Monster Bash Dance Party, collect candy on the trick-or-treat trail, make festive crafts, test their knowledge at trivia, or play other ghoulish games. Guests visiting the Maryland location will also be able to join in on the Halloween fun. 549 E. Rochambeau Dr., Williamsburg, rooms start at $219 per night
Feature image courtesy Hersheypark