11 Zoos and Aquariums Hosting Spooky Seasonal Nights
As October rolls in, some of the most beloved zoos and aquariums are preparing for their spooky seasonal events. From enchanted animal exhibits to haunted paths, these attractions are perfect for anyone looking for a Halloween adventure. With something for everyone, these nights offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the season. Whether you are looking to experience Halloween magic or just want a fun outing, these zoos and aquariums have it all.
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Houston Zoo – Zoo Boo & Spooky Spirits
The Houston Zoo hosts its annual Zoo Boo, a family-friendly Halloween event, offering a wide variety of activities for all ages. With pumpkin displays, animal-themed decorations, and costume contests, the zoo transforms into a fun-filled, spooky space for everyone. Special features include themed animal enrichments and a candy trail for little ones. This event runs throughout October, with additional activities during weekends, making it the perfect autumn outing for families.
For those seeking a more adult experience, Spooky Spirits takes place on select evenings in mid-October. This event includes cocktails, a DJ, and spooky games, with a festive adult twist. Guests can enjoy the zoo after dark, exploring the exhibits in a more mysterious, Halloween-inspired setting. Tickets for Spooky Spirits are available separately from the daytime event.
Georgia Aquarium – Haunted Seas & Sips Under the Sea
From October 3 through November 2, the Georgia Aquarium hosts Haunted Seas, where the underwater world is transformed for Halloween. Visitors can explore reimagined galleries filled with eerie decorations, while special animal presentations are themed around mythical sea creatures. A standout attraction is the Mermaid Grotto, where guests meet mermaids amidst eerie lighting and spooky creatures. The event brings a spooky vibe to the aquarium, offering a magical Halloween experience for families.
On October 31, the aquarium hosts Sips Under the Sea, an adults-only event perfect for those looking to experience the aquarium’s spooky charm with a cocktail in hand. The event features live music, themed cocktails, and the chance to explore the exhibits after dark. Visitors can enjoy the aquarium in a unique, hauntingly beautiful setting. Tickets for Sips Under the Sea are sold separately.
Birmingham Zoo – Hoots & Howls
Hoots & Howls is Birmingham Zoo’s exciting Halloween event, happening on weekends in October. With over 10 trick-or-treat stations, a haunted hayride, and themed animal encounters, it is a popular choice for families. Kids can enjoy live entertainment, including magic shows and games, while exploring the zoo’s spooky transformation. The event also features a Monster Mash dance party for guests to enjoy.
The event runs from 10 AM to 4 PM on weekends, with special activities for little ones, such as costume contests and crafts. The zoo offers a safe environment for children to enjoy Halloween-themed fun with educational animal interactions. Tickets include access to all the activities, and the zoo is known for its welcoming atmosphere. It’s an affordable and fun-filled way to celebrate Halloween.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park – Creatures of the Night
ZooTampa’s Creatures of the Night is one of the most anticipated Halloween events in Florida. This annual event invites guests to experience the zoo after dark, with a Halloween-themed adventure that’s perfect for all ages. The zoo transforms into a spooky, interactive experience with ghostly decorations and animal-themed activities. There are also special animal encounters designed to add a spooky twist to your visit.
Creatures of the Night runs on select evenings throughout October, featuring live entertainment, themed food stalls, and special activities for younger guests. It offers the unique opportunity to experience the zoo’s animal exhibits in a completely different light—literally! The event includes themed shows, such as Halloween-inspired animal presentations and trick-or-treating. It’s a must-see for any Halloween enthusiast.
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium – Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza
The Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is a spectacular Halloween event running from October 2 to November 2. Over 3,500 hand-carved pumpkins are displayed throughout the zoo, creating an enchanting experience for visitors. The pumpkin displays range from intricate designs to life-size sculptures, making this event perfect for anyone who loves Halloween art. The zoo also features fall-themed games, rides, and food stalls.
This event is a favorite among visitors who enjoy both Halloween and animal exhibits. Along with pumpkin displays, there are seasonal treats like pumpkin-flavored snacks, giving guests a complete Halloween experience. Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza is a visually stunning way to celebrate the spooky season while enjoying the zoo’s beautiful grounds. Tickets are available online, and the event is a great activity for families and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
Roger Williams Park Zoo – Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo is a must-see Halloween event. Running from September 26 to November 2, this dazzling display features thousands of hand-carved pumpkins, each one uniquely crafted. Guests can stroll through themed trails lit up by the glowing pumpkins, with designs ranging from classic Halloween faces to artistic, elaborate displays. It’s a visually stunning experience for all ages.
This year’s event also includes a variety of food stalls offering seasonal treats and drinks. The zoo’s location offers a picturesque setting for the pumpkin display, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is a popular annual tradition, drawing crowds from near and far. Tickets are available for both members and non-members, with discounts available for early purchases.
Brevard Zoo – Boo at the Zoo & Adult Programs
Boo at the Zoo at Brevard Zoo runs on Saturdays and Sundays throughout October from 10 AM to 3 PM. This Halloween event features family-friendly activities like animal encounters, crafts, and a special trick-or-treating route for children. The zoo is transformed into a Halloween wonderland, complete with spooky decorations and live entertainment. It’s a great way to enjoy the zoo with a Halloween twist.
For adults, the zoo offers specialized programs like Animal Oddities and Curiosities, where guests can explore the spooky side of nature with educational experiences. These events combine fun and education, ensuring that every visitor, regardless of age, can enjoy something unique. The zoo’s Boo at the Zoo is a fun and affordable way to celebrate Halloween while experiencing wildlife up close. Tickets are available for both the family event and adult programs.
Potter Park Zoo – Boo at the Zoo
Potter Park Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo is an annual Halloween event in Lansing, Michigan. It includes trick-or-treating, spooky decorations, and animal-themed activities. This family-friendly event lets visitors enjoy Halloween in a safe and fun environment, complete with costume contests for children. The zoo features themed exhibits and a variety of seasonal entertainment for guests of all ages.
With its friendly atmosphere, Boo at the Zoo is perfect for younger children who are looking to experience the Halloween spirit without the fright. It’s a great way to introduce kids to Halloween while enjoying the zoo’s animals and exhibits. The event is included with general zoo admission, and it runs during the day for a less spooky, more fun experience. It’s an affordable way to enjoy Halloween with the whole family.
Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor – Long Beach, CA
Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor in Long Beach, California, is one of the most haunted Halloween events in the country. Set aboard the historic RMS Queen Mary, the event features several haunted mazes, scare zones, and live performances. Visitors can encounter eerie characters like Scary Mary and The Captain as they explore the ship’s haunted history. The chilling atmosphere is enhanced by creepy sounds and fog, making it a terrifying experience for those brave enough to visit.
For Halloween enthusiasts looking for a terrifying night, Dark Harbor offers thrills and frights in abundance. The event runs on select nights from September to November and is designed for those seeking a true haunted attraction. Guests can experience a variety of themed mazes, each more frightening than the last. It’s an adults-only Halloween event that provides a truly spooky adventure on the high seas.
Howl-O-Scream – Busch Gardens & SeaWorld Parks
Howl-O-Scream is an annual Halloween event held at Busch Gardens and SeaWorld parks across the U.S. The event features haunted houses, scare zones, and live entertainment, all designed to keep visitors on edge. Each park offers unique horror-themed experiences, from haunted hospitals to twisted carnivals. It’s a thrilling way to celebrate Halloween for those who enjoy a good scare.
Howl-O-Scream events are designed for adults and older children, with intense scare factors and live actors jumping out at unsuspecting guests. The parks are transformed into haunting, dark landscapes filled with fog, eerie lights, and spine-chilling effects. Tickets for Howl-O-Scream are available online, and additional upgrades are available for VIP experiences. It’s a must-attend for anyone seeking the ultimate Halloween scare.
Knott’s Scary Farm – Buena Park, CA
Knott’s Scary Farm in Buena Park, California, is a legendary Halloween event that transforms Knott’s Berry Farm into a terrifying haunted experience. The event features multiple haunted mazes, scare zones, and live shows, creating an immersive horror experience. Visitors can encounter everything from monsters to ghosts as they roam the park’s spooky streets. The event is famous for its high-quality scares and detailed mazes.
Knott’s Scary Farm is designed for those who love horror, with intense experiences that may not be suitable for younger children. With its interactive, multi-sensory mazes and scare zones, it’s one of the most comprehensive Halloween events available. The park is transformed into a twisted world full of supernatural beings and haunted attractions. Tickets are available for both daytime and nighttime events, with exclusive packages for VIP guests.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.