2023 Halloween Horror Nights Tips and Survival Guide!
You poor unfortunate soul. Do you dare to venture out to this year’s Halloween Horror Nights?
If so, you are in for more than ghostly encounters.
This year’s Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) will take place on a record-breaking 48 nights from September 1st through November 4th of 2023 at Universal Studios Florida.
That’s almost two whole months!
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What is Halloween Horror Nights?
Before we get into the Halloween Horror Nights tips, let’s understand what it is first.
HHN is an annual Halloween event held at Universal Studios Orlando on selects nights in fall after park closing.
Its rich history and quality production has transformed it into the World’s Premier Halloween Event!
This is due to the over-the-top scares, sets, and details put into this experience each year by the Universal Orlando Creative team.
What began as a 3-day event in 1991, will return stronger than ever to celebrate over 30 years of fear!
Halloween Horror Nights Dates 2023
HHN will take places on select nights from Friday, September 1st until Saturday, November 4th 2023.
As you can see, HHN is not every night. So, be aware of the dates when choosing the day you’d like to go.
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What time is Halloween Horror Nights?
You’ll be happy to know that the Halloween Horror Nights hours start at 6:30 p.m. with closing times varying each night.
What’s New for Halloween Horror Nights 2023
Let’s go over a few new things added to this year’s event.
Get UP Close with the Monsters!
If you’re looking to experience maximum fear during Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando, staying at one of their hotels is the way to go!
Not only do you get access to a dedicated entry gate for the event with complimentary transportation back and forth between theme parks and CityWalk, you’ll get an exclusive HHN attraction!
Universal Orlando hotel guests will get exclusive access to limited-time Halloween Horror Nights experiences at select Universal hotels.
This includes a special Halloween experience at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort such as Chucky’s Twisted Playground.
WATCH NEXT: 13 Weird (but true) Halloween Horror Nights Secrets 🎃 (History of HHN)
Chucky’s Twisted Playground
This HHN attraction will feature a collection of fun photo-ops inspired by the frightening Halloween creatures inspired by this year’s event.
This sinister experience is based on the USA and SYFY series, Chucky.
There will also be the Universal Monsters Gallery of Legends lobby photo-op in all other hotel lobbies at Universal Orlando Resort.
New HHN Food
This year you’ll get to eat your way around Halloween Horror Nights with the all-new food & beverage items.
Some of them include the following items:
- Bloody Campground Poutine
- El Pastor Torta
- Sour Apple Pie Funnel Fries
You’ll also be happy to know that many of your favorite foodie items will return like the Pizza Fries.
WATCH NEXT: Top 5 BEST Food at Universal Studios UNDER $10!!! 🍟🍦🍻🍕
Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar
This new HHN Bar will entice with you the newly themed cocktails as you enjoy the vibe and more in this spine-chilling experience.
Taste of Terror
New this year is the Halloween Horror Nights Taste of Terror!
This fun experience will allow you to preview the HHN food for this year’s event.
The Taste of Terror will take place on select nights from August 10 through August 26 of 2023 and costs $135.99.
For more information and to purchase tickets to Taste of Terror, click here.
The Wizarding World Comes to Halloween Horror Nights
I’m so excited to let you know that the Death Eaters from the Harry Potter book series will be making their debut at HHN 32!
This is great news, especially if you’re a Potter Fan.
You will find the evil Death Eaters roaming around The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida!
So, be sure to get that perfect photo with them.
Get your discounted HHN Tickets on Groupon TODAY!
Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Houses
This year there will be 10 haunted houses, five scare zones and one live show based on some of the biggest names in horror and pop culture.
1. Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count
This haunted house will be inspired by the USA & SYFY hit series, “Chucky” that will release the iconic killer doll at Universal Orlando Resort to terrify you!
In this house, Chucky is fed up with not being respected by his friends.
It’s been bothering him so much that he decides to take matters into his own hands and turn his haunted house into a full-blown slaughterhouse.
His plan?
Taking out every single person who dares to set foot inside.
2. The Last of Us
This video game, by Naughty Dog and PlayStation, has been a hit with audiences for a whole decade now, and to celebrate its anniversary, they’ve created an awesome real-life experience that lets you actually step into the terrifying world of the game.
The Last of Us takes place in a world that’s been completely destroyed. You’ve got infected people and tough survivors all over the place.
So, imagine stepping into a haunted house inspired by The Last of Us. It’s like diving headfirst into a world of chaos and destruction.
Why I’m Excited for this HHN House
Just like Joel and Ellie, the main characters in the game, you’ll experience their intense struggle as they navigate through a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a crazy fungal virus.
This virus transforms people into something horrifying, known as the Infected. It’s a wild ride, for sure!
In The Last of Us, you’ll come across all these crazy creatures like the Infected Runners, Stalkers, and Clickers.
And if that’s not enough, there’s also this group of unfriendly humans called The Hunters. They’re all stuck in this Pittsburgh Quarantine Zone, trying to get out and stay alive.
They have to go through some pretty iconic places from the game like The Hotel Grand, which is super creepy and deserted, and a bunch of dark, gross tunnels.
It’s basically a race against time to escape and survive.
Recommended: 35 Scary and Fun Things to Do in Florida for Halloween
3. Stranger Things
Get ready to be spooked at this year’s haunted house, Stranger Things.
It’s gonna take you right to Hawkins, Indiana, where you’ll come face-to-face with the scariest new bad guy, Vecna.
This creature is on a mission to destroy the demented Upside Down, break the barrier between both worlds and take over the real world.
Talk about a chilling adventure!
You’ll go on this terrifying adventure alongside your favorite characters from the series, such as:
- Eleven
- Max
- Eddie and more!
Not only will you go through the iconic scenes in Hawkins, you’ll also come face-to-face with your darkest fears such as the demobats and even Vecna himself.
According to Universal, this is the ultimate showdown within Vecna’s blood-red Mind Lair!
WATCH: What to Bring to Halloween Horror Nights!
The Exorcist: Believer
Welcome to The Exorcist: Believer, where you’ll be transported to a vibrant street market in Haiti.
It all starts with a seemingly innocent purchase of a peculiar folk doll with three eyes.
Little do you know, this purchase will unleash a demonic portal, awakening sinister spirits and leading to the mysterious disappearance of two 12-year-old girls in the U.S.
After three days, the girls are found, but they have no recollection of what happened to them.
However, their behavior quickly takes a disturbing turn, indicating that something dark has taken hold of them.
It becomes clear that an exorcism is the only way to save them from the malevolent forces that now possess them.
But it’s not just the girls who are in danger.
Anyone who comes into contact with them, including unsuspecting guests like yourself, is suddenly at risk of losing their own souls.
Brace yourself for a chilling and intense experience as you navigate through this haunted house.
This house is inspired by Universal Pictures’ terrifying new horror film from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Entertainment (in theaters Friday, October 13).
Universal Monsters: Unmasked
Get ready to be spooked as you take you on a bone-chilling journey through the infamous Catacombs of Paris.
Sixty feet below the bustling streets, a sinister secret awaits in the form of Universal Monsters: Unmasked, a brand new haunted house that will send shivers down your spine.
As you descend into the depths of the Catacombs, you’ll discover a macabre world where millions of skeletal remains fill every nook and cranny.
But that’s not all – lurking in the shadows are some of Universal’s most notorious creatures such as:
- Phantom of the Opera
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame
- Dr. Jekyll and his deranged alter ego Mr. Hyde, and Dr. Jack Griffin (also known as The Invisible Man)
They all lie in wait, thirsting for vengeance against unsuspecting guests who dare to enter their domain.
These desperate and dangerous fiends have been consumed by rage, and they won’t hesitate to unleash their terror upon anyone who dares to navigate the twisted tunnels of their underground labyrinth.
WATCH NEXT: 13 Weird (but true) Halloween Horror Nights Secrets 🎃 (History of HHN)
Dr. Oddfellow: Twisted Origins
Step right up, folks! Welcome to Dr. Oddfellow’s twisted menagerie, an eerie collection of bizarre oddities that will send chills down your spine.
Journey back to the haunting era of the 1930s Dust Bowl, where you’ll be irresistibly drawn into a world of grotesque animals and fiendish creatures.
Brace yourself as you enter Dr. Oddfellow: Twisted Origins – but beware, the price to experience this spine-tingling adventure is steep, as it feeds the doctor’s immortal power with souls.
WATCH NEXT: Go ALONE! Scaredy Cat’s Guide to Halloween Horror Nights 🎃 (Solo Travel Tips for First-Timers)
Dueling Dragons: Choose Thy Fate
The legendary wizard Merlyn has undergone a crazy transformation into the Enchanted Oak.
With Merlyn out of the picture, there’s now a struggle for power between two warlocks who decide to invade Merlyn’s castle with one goal in mind: steal his spell book.
They’re then hit with a spell that transforms them into fearsome dragons – one fiery and the other icy. Talk about a twist!
As a guest at this mystical castle, you find yourself caught right in the middle of this epic battle between the fire and ice dragons.
And guess what? You have to make a choice.
Which path will you take?
And more importantly, which dragon will you support to claim victory?
But hold on tight, my fellow ThemeParkHipster. This is no ordinary showdown!
It’s a spectacle of magic, danger, and uncertainty. Who knows what will happen next?
YETI: Campground Kills
Welcome to the spine-chilling world of YETI: Campground Kills!
Imagine being in a 1950s campground, where a pack of monstrous yetis is on a rampage, terrorizing campers, rangers, and anyone unlucky enough to cross their path.
Brace yourself for a heart-pounding experience as you navigate through the campground, desperately seeking refuge in cabins, a bait shack, and even an ominous outhouse.
Your ultimate goal?
Make it to the safety of the ranger tower before it’s too late.
The Darkest Deal
Picture this: blues musician, Pinestraw Spruce, finds himself at a major crossroads – not just figuratively, but literally too!
It’s at this intersection that he encounters a truly diabolical being known as The Collector.
Now, The Collector has a proposition for Pinestraw – he’s willing to grant him musical glory, but at a huge cost.
He’ll be performing for a crowd, showcasing his incredible talent.
But here’s the catch – once he’s finished, The Collector will swoop in to claim his soul, dragging him down to Hades.
And he won’t be alone – there are other musicians who have learned the terrifying price of fame in this spine-chilling event called The Darkest Deal.
Watch: New to Halloween Horror Nights? Don’t Go Without Knowing These 15 Tips!
Bloodmoon: Dark Offerings
Imagine a quaint village trapped in the grip of a moon-worshiping frenzy from colonial times.
Their devotion reaches its peak during the fall festival, when the blood moon ominously ascends.
In their fervor, they perceive this celestial event as a command to eliminate all non-believers residing within their community.
As you step into this chilling world, your challenge lies in not becoming a sacrificial victim.
Brace yourself for the bone-chilling terror of Bloodmoon: Dark Offerings.
Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones 2023
If you think you can avoid the scares by avoiding the HHN houses, then you’re WRONG!
Throughout Halloween Horror Nights are five all-new scare zones:
- Dr. Oddfellow’s Collection of Horror: Dr. Oddfellow will lift the veil on all the horrors where you all will soon realize you may not survive the evening.
- Dark Zodiac: Dr. Oddfellow, who has taken a dive into a creepy dark dimension. His goal? To tap into the power of the Zodiac and become immortal.
- Jungle of Doom: Expedition Horror: Dr. Oddfellow is taking his demented ways into the deep jungle to perform terrible experiments on nature. See what terrifying creatures await in the 1920s.
- Vamp ’69: Summer of Blood: The 1960s music fest has landed in a small New York town and while you’re partying it up with popular bands, Dr. Oddfellow is quietly waiting to release ravenous vampires upon you.
- Shipyard 32: Horrors Unhinged: A 1940s San Francisco mysterious shipping yard is filled with unearthly crates and cages that have Dr. Oddfellow’s symbol on them. Just when you think you’re safe, you’re attacked from all sides with the chaos brought on by the petrifying oddities.
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Halloween Horror Nights Live Shows 2023
For HHN 2023, Universal will be debuting the fan-favorite shows to terrify you this year!
1. Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream
The sequel to last year’s fan-favorite “Halloween Nightmare Fuel Wildfire” show that featured the world-famous performance group, The Fuel Girls.
This show highlights a new Dreamer in the depths of a new nightmare set to an intense metal, rock and electronica score..
Read: SMACKDOWN: 7 Best Halloween Horror Nights Icons EVER!!!
2. Bonus Universal Orlando Halloween Experience (Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle)
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then you’ll be excited to hear about the returning Dark Arts feature being placed over Hogwarts Castle in Islands of Adventure (selects night in September and October of 2023)!
I cannot wait to see this again!
You will be able to enjoy the Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle that usually starts select nights starting in mid-September.
According to Universal, the Death Eaters will eerily roam throughout Hogsmeade, lurking amongst guests – practicing the Dark Arts with complete disregard of wizarding laws.
Then, “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will illuminate a darker side of the wizarding world as sinister creatures and villains – such as Dementors, Aragog, Mountain Trolls, Thestrals and more – cloak the castle through a mesmerizing display of light, music and special effects.
While you’re in Hogsmeade you’ll witness a spine-chilling atmosphere complete with ominous green light and fog throughout the village.
And if you’re a fan of the Potter series, then you know this is a sign that Death Eaters have arrived!
As mentioned earlier, NEW for 2023, Death Eaters invade Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida!
This was one of my favorite things at Halloween Horror Nights this year and something you can’t miss.
Return of the ICONIC HHN Tribute Store
The fan-favorite Halloween Horror Night Tribute Store is returning this year with brand-new themed rooms, unique treats to try, and special merchandise for the event.
You can explore an elaborate Halloween shopping experience right in the heart of Universal Studios Florida.
Discover a world of mystery as you step into the enigmatic NYC Comic Book Shop.
Prepare to be intrigued by the intricate storytelling and captivating artwork that bring this horror comic book store to life.
Every page turned reveals a new twist, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you navigate through the shop’s haunting atmosphere.
Watch: 5 Mistakes to AVOID at Halloween Horror Nights!
25 Halloween Horror Night Tips for 2023
If you’re brave enough to handle the number one horror event in the world, then I’ve gathered the best tips to help you survive Halloween Horror Nights 2022.
1. Get to Halloween Horror Nights Early
I cannot express this enough. This is my top Halloween Horror Nights tips!
Unless you’re spending your cell phone money on an Express Pass, I would suggest you get to Universal Studios at least an hour early before the start of the event.
If you’re lucky enough, you may be able to get early entry into the park and knock out two to three houses within one hour.
Halloween Horror Nights Universal officially begins every night at 6:30 p.m.
You are allowed to remain in one of the Stay & Scream spots:
- Springfield area
- New York near Finnegan’s Bar area
- San Francisco area near Richter’s Burger Company
Just know that the locations can change at anytime so be sure to double check them when purchasing this upgrade.
Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!
2. Go with a Group of Friends
Halloween Horror Night is for scaredy cats…
…not saying that you’re one, but don’t be afraid to go to this event.
Going to HHN with a group of friends makes it so much fun as the night goes on. However, going with your significant other is fun too, since you’ll have someone to protect you.
3. Know the Child Policy
One of the main questions I get is:
Are Kids allowed at Halloween Horror Nights?
According to Universal, this event may be too intense for young children. Adult discretion is strongly advised.
You should also know that there are no child ticket prices available for this event. This means that your child ticket will be the same price as a general/adult ticket.
4. Know What to Wear to Halloween Horror Nights Orlando
Should you choose Style, Comfort, or Both? I choose comfort over style, but I’m trying to get better at combining the two.
What I do recommend is wearing comfortable sneakers for all of the standing, walking, and running you will be doing.
Trust me, you will thank me later.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
5. Have a Game Plan and HHN Itinerary
Route your path around the park in advance by retrieving the Halloween Horror Nights 32 map.
This is one of my best Halloween Horror Nights tips! You’ll want to review the park map and make a list of what houses you want to do and in which order.
Hipster Power Tip: Start with the haunted mazes towards the back of the park and make your way towards the front on your trip.
Can you ride the rides at Halloween Horror Nights?
Yes you can, but I recommend saving the opportunity for riding the permanent attractions for another visit.
You can also do them towards the end of the night once you have done the HHN mazes.
6. Know the Best Days to Go to Halloween Horror Nights
Attend Halloween Horror Nights on off peak nights.
Visit Universal HHN Sunday through Thursday to take advantage of the cheaper days (especially for Florida residents or Annual Passholders) and the smaller crowd.
Please avoid weekends and holidays if you can.
These are the worst days to go because you will not be able to enjoy all the houses. You will also have to fight through extremely crowded streets.
Hipster Power Tip: The best time to attend Halloween Horror Nights is during the middle of September or last few days of the event (Halloween is hit or miss).
7. Purchase Halloween Horror Nights Tickets in Advance
It’s best to buy your tickets ahead of time. This prevents waiting in the ticket line once you arrive at Halloween Horror Nights.
The line to buy tickets can be long and on super busy nights it can exceed the usual ticket queue you may notice during regular theme park hours.
Halloween Horror Nights Tickets (Single Night Price)
You can now save money and grab your HHN ticket online. HHN tickets start at $79.99 when purchased in advanced, but you can save up to $52 on select nights by purchasing yours in online.
This will save you a lot of money.
Get YOUR Halloween Horror Nights Tickets with The Park Prodigy TODAY!
8. Buy a Frequent Fear Pass
If you want to visit HHN on multiple occasions, then be sure to review the multi-pass breakdown.
The Halloween Horror Nights Rush of Fear Pass is the BEST value for your money.
You’ll be able to go on multiple days allowing you to see and do all that the event has to offer.
Plus, if you get the HHN Rush of Fear Pass, you won’t need to get an Express Pass.
Mainly due to the fact that you’ll be able to take your time going through the haunted houses throughout your multiple visits.
The Rush of Fear Pass and the Frequent Fear Pass allows you to visit HHN on many of the nights throughout the event for ONE PRICE! Below are the current options:
Rush of Fear Pass
This HHN ticket is $179.99 per person and allows you to visit the event on September 1–3, 6–10, 13–17, and 20–24.
Do keep in mind that this ticket includes 6 Months of Peacock at no extra cost to you and you can add an Express Pass for an additional $350 for a total cost of $529.99
Frequent Fear Pass
For this pass you will pay $229.99 per person and get up to 30 nights. You are also able to come EVERY Sunday through Thursday of the event PLUS the first weekend.
The HHN Frequent Fear Pass includes the following dates:
- September 1–3, 6–7, 10, 13–14, 17, 20–21, 24, 27–28
- October 1, 4–5, 8, 11–12, 15, 18–19, 22, 25–26, 29, 31
- November 1-2
This ticket also includes 6 Months of Peacock at no extra cost and you can add an Express Pass for an additional $380 for a total cost of $609.99.
Frequent Fear PLUS Pass
This HHN pass is $269.99 per person and you get up to 40 nights. You’ll be able to come EVERY Sunday through Friday of the event PLUS the first and last Saturday of HHN.
The HHN Frequent Fear PLUS Pass includes the following dates:
- September 1–3, 6–8, 10, 13–15, 17, 20–22, 24, 27–29
- October 1, 4–6, 8, 11–13, 15, 18–20, 22, 25-27, 29, 31
- November 1-4
This HHN ticket includes 6 Months of Peacock at no extra cost and you can add an Express Pass for an additional $430 for a total cost of $699.99.
Ultimate Frequent Fear Pass
For $374.99 per person, you can get up to 48 nights and experience EVERY night of the HHN!
Plus, you’ll get FREE Regular parking after 5 p.m. on all event nights.
The HHN Ultimate Frequent Fear PLUS Pass includes the following dates:
- September 1–3, 6–10, 13–17, 20–24, 27–30
- October 1, 4–8, 11–15, 18–22, 25–29, 31
- November 1-4
This HHN ticket includes 6 Months of Peacock at no extra cost and you can add an Express Pass for an additional $545 for a total cost of $919.99.
As you can see, you’ll be able to go on multiple days allowing you to see and do all that the event has to offer.
9. Get HHN Ticket From a Trustworthy Website
Buy your Universal Halloween Horror Nights ticket directly from Universal’s website or from a reputable source such as Groupon or The Park Prodigy.
They usually have special rates for Orlando theme park visitors.
You can also book your Universal Orlando discount hotel through Hotels.com.
Get YOUR Halloween Horror Nights Tickets with The Park Prodigy TODAY!
10. Get a Halloween Horror Nights Express Pass
Another question I’m always asked:
Is the Halloween Horror Nights Express Pass worth it?
Absolutely! Please buy an Express Pass. Halloween Horror Nights is extremely popular, if not the most popular Halloween event in Central Florida.
This popularity sometimes leads to wait times for haunted mazes exceeding three hours. In order for you to enjoy your evening at HHN, you may want to splurge on an express pass.
This will help you conquer each haunted house at Halloween Horror Nights.
Please note the Express Pass has a history of selling out on peak nights. Always check Universal’s website and buy your event upgrade before your visit.
If you can splurge on an Express Pass, then get it! It will make your night much more enjoyable and it will also make your night feel less rushed.
Remember: Halloween Horror Nights Express Passes start at $119.99 per person.
If you want to avoid spending extra money on the Express Pass, then it’s best to get to Halloween Horror Nights early.
I know I’m repeating this tip, but this is one of the MOST IMPORTANT Halloween Horror Nights Tips.
Do I need to buy an Express Pass for Halloween Horror Nights?
You 100% DO NOT NEED an Express Pass to enter and enjoy your time at HHN.
However, if you HATE lines with a burning passion, or want to get on every single haunted house in one night, then an HHN Express Pass is definitely going to maximize your time.
If you choose not to get an Express Pass, then I recommend that you pick a day that is going to have a lower crowd level.
You can do this by looking at the HHN Express Pass Pricing Calendar and see which day has a lower cost.
This will indicate that Universal Orlando predicts a smaller crowd that day.
Hipster Power Tip: The wait times are shorter (less than 30 minutes) at the beginning of the event and also towards the end of the event.
11. Press the Special Buttons in the Haunted Mazes
Whenever you’re in a haunted house please note the red button (or any interactive button). When you see one press it for a special surprise.
12. Remember Halloween Horror Nights is Extremely Scary
You may be wondering if Halloween Horror Nights is scary? HHN is recommended for ages 13 years or older for good reasons.
The houses and scare zones are intense with lifelike bloody scenarios.
Jump scares are throughout the event, but sometime the eerie, foreboding feeling is even scarier.
Is Halloween Horror Nights safe?
Absolutely.
Just remember if the house is too intense for you, then you can leave by notifying a park team member.
The Universal team member is usually located in a specific corner of a haunted attraction and may be dressed in all black regular clothes.
Can they touch you at Halloween Horror Nights?
Team Members at Universal Orlando are not allowed to touch theme park guests, so you’re good to go!
Have you ever thought about doing Halloween Horror Nights solo? Read my solo trip report here!
13. Don’t Get Drunk Off the Spirits
Alcoholic beverages are served at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights.
It’s a nice treat to have in the face of the haunted scares, but remember to pace yourself and try not to get drunk.
Remember: Local law enforcement patrols the event.
You can save money by pre-gaming in CityWalk during happy hour. This is one of my favorite Halloween Horror Nights tips.
Dead Coconut Club
My favorite place to pre-game before HHN is at the Dead Coconut Club.
You will enjoy ghastly inspired cocktails and treats on the second level of CityWalk Orlando.
Hipster Power Tip: Think about getting the HHN party started early at one of the Universal Orlando hotels. You can park there, get a drink at the bar and get your parking voucher validated. Saving you money on your parking fee.
You can learn more about Universal Orlando’s parking validation rules here!
14. Buy a Unique Halloween Horror Nights experience
This is a fun way to enjoy this Florida theme park haunt.
Halloween Horror Nights Behind-the-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour
Try out the Unmasking the Horror Tour where you’ll have a daytime, lights-on, chilling look into how Universal Orlando’s Art & Design team transforms the biggest names in horror into haunted houses.
You’ll also get the opportunity to take photos while in some of the house during your tour.
You need to know that your theme park admission ticket is not included or required to participate in a tour.
So, once the tour is done, you will not be able to stay in the park unless you have a Universal Studios ticket or Annual Pass already purchased.
This is one of my best Halloween Horror Nights tips!
Below are the options that you have for the Unmasking the Horror Tour:
- 3 House Tour starts at $119.99 (can last up to 2.5 hours)
- 6 House Tough starts at $169.99 (can last up to 5 hours)
Unmasking the Horror Tour 2023 Dates:
- September Dates: Sept. 1-3, 6-10, 13-17, 20-24, 27-30
- October Dates: Oct. 1st, 4-8, 11-15, 18-22, 25-29, 31st
- November Dates: Nov. 1-4
Hipster Power Tip: If you’re not going alone, make sure you and your group book your tickets together so that you can get the same tour, time, and group on your visit.
Halloween Horror Nights R.I.P. Tour
Be sure to try the Halloween Horror Nights RIP Tour.
This is your own VIP tour around HHN in a one-on-one guided tour with a Universal Orlando Team Member with priority V.I.P. entry to haunted houses (once per house).
Halloween Horror Nights R.I.P. Tour 2023 Dates:
- September Dates: Sept. 1-3, 6-10, 13-17, 20-24, 27-30
- October Dates: Oct. 1st, 4-8, 11-15, 18-22, 25-29, 31st
- November Dates: Nov. 1-4
How much is an HHN VIP Tour at Universal?
The Halloween Horror Nights R.I.P. Tour starts at $319.99. Prices change based on the predicted busyness of the event.
Doing an HHN VIP tour is definitely on my theme park bucket list.
If you do plan on doing it for your visit, you can expect to enjoy:
- Priority V.I.P. entry to haunted houses and participating rides and attractions while on tour with R.I.P. Tour Guide (once per house, subject to itinerary and event operating hours)
- V.I.P. entrance gate to Universal Studios Florida for the event
- Commemorative R.I.P. Tour credential & lanyard
- Complimentary Valet Parking (Guests will receive complimentary Valet Parking for one (1) vehicle based on availability and advance purchase)
- Pre-tour reception in Cafe La Bamba
- Access to exclusive cash bar locations during the tour (must be 21+ with valid photo ID to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages)
- Reserved seating at select show(s)
- Universal Express Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions (event hours permitting, excludes houses)
Private HHN R.I.P. Tours
Enjoy HHN like a star by doing your own private Halloween Horror Nights tour. This tour includes all the R.I.P. Tour benefits, PLUS:
- Priority UNLIMITED VIP entry to haunted houses and participating rides and attractions while on tour with R.I.P. Tour Guide (subject to itinerary and event operating hours)
- Exclusive private tour of the event for your group—up to 10 people
- Customizable itinerary
- My Universal Photos 3-Day photo package
- Call (866) 346-9350 for details and to book. Separate event admission is required; pricing varies by date, subject to availability.
What to Know Before Booking an R.I.P. Tour and a Private Tour
- Separate Halloween Horror Nights event admission is required for all R.I.P. Tour experiences AND must be valid for the same calendar day as the R.I.P. Tour ticket.
- R.I.P. Tours are available for individual parties of up to six (6) persons only and will include multiple parties in the same tour group.
- Parties or groups of seven (7) or more will need to book a Private R.I.P. Tour which will include only members of their individual group. Reservations are required and forty-eight (48) hour cancellation notice is required for a full refund.
- Event admission is not included in the listed price.
15. Purchase a Unique HHN Activity
Enjoy a special activity such as getting a henna tattoo, doing a scareactor dining experience (if it returns), or getting your face painted.
16. Stay Hydrated
HHN requires A LOT of walking and sweating! Something Floridians are used to, but not a common thing for out-of-towners.
Plan to drink a few ounces of water every hour while at HHN. This is one of my best Halloween Horror Nights tips!
17. Watch Halloween Horror Nights Vlogs
One of the best things you can do to prepare for HHN is to watch vlogs from some of the top creators.
Personal vlogs will show you some of the things to expect and will let you know the intensity of the event. The vlogs also show different ways people enjoy HHN.
View vlogs from people such as the Knight’s Trek, Zombie Chris, Losh TV and ThemeParkHipster (of course!) to help get you excited for HHN.
This is one of the top Halloween Horror Nights tips!
18. Don’t Forget Your Wallet
Remember to bring your wallet, your tickets, and your I.D. I know this sounds like a simple tip, but it’s something that happens to many people visiting HHN.
19. Have a Halloween Horror Nights Budget
This is not a cheap event to attend unless you have a hook up of someway or you are a Premier Passholder.
You have to take into account parking fees, food, drinks, and any other special experiences that you may want to do on top of the ticket price.
You may be thinking…
How much should I save for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando?
If you budget for:
- Ticket ~ $80 (this is the lowest price, but I recommended budgeting closer to $90)
- Parking at Universal Orlando ~ $27 (free after 6 p.m. except during HHN)
- Food ~ $45
- Merchandise ~ $60
Your total for a trip to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios would be ~ $215 per person.
20. Monitor the Weather
The weather in Florida from September to early November can range from extremely hot and humid to rainy and sometimes (very rare) cool October days.
Always check the weather to know what to expect. The weather will make or break your trip, especially if it’s scorching or if there’s a rainstorm.
21. Know the Costume Policy
A top question I’m asked is:
Can you wear costumes to Halloween Horror Nights?
Costumes are not allowed at Halloween Horror Nights Orlando. This rule is mostly for the safety of both team members and guests.
22. Dine Before Halloween Horror Nights
Grab a bite at CityWalk, at an offsite restaurant, or possibly inside Universal Studios. If you eat in Universal Studios prior to event, you will be placed in a holding area.
The holding areas vary, so always check prior to your visit.
For Passholders there are days, usually the first two weekends, where you can get into the park early.
If you take advantage of the Scream Early, you will be able to experience between 2 to 3 houses knocking them out quickly. This treat can eliminate the need to buy an Express Pass.
Scream Early Ticket AKA Stay and Scream
Universal Studios Florida offers haunt seekers an opportunity to start the excitement early by participating in Scream Experiences from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
At 5 p.m., you will wait in a Stay & Scream area until the event begins.
Admission for that day at Universal Studios theme park is REQUIRED and NOT INCLUDED with your Scream Early ticket purchase.
If you arrive at Universal Studios after 5 p.m., you forfeit your screaming rights!
How much is the Stay and Scream ticket at Halloween Horror Nights?
This ticket is $40.00 per person and allows you to start your HHN thrills early at Universal Studios Florida from 3-5 p.m.
Recommended: 1 Day in Orlando Itinerary: What Should I Do That’s NOT Theme Parks?
Passholders Get Special Pricing on Single-Night Tickets
Universal Orlando Annual Passholders can save on HHN tickets online for select dates this season.
Plus, Premier Passholders get one free event night admission on select nights.
These are the 2023 dates for UOAP members to remember their free HHN tickets:
- September 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 24, 27, 28,
- October 4, 5,
- November 1, 2
To redeem your complimentary Halloween Horror Nights ticket, you must walk up to the gate and present your valid Premier Annual Pass at any Universal Studios Florida turnstile.
23. Be Mindful of Universal Orlando Resort Security
Security at Universal Orlando is very tight and it is stricter during Halloween Horror Nights, but don’t let that discourage your evening at HHN.
Have a blast, be safe, and don’t try anything stupid. This is one of my best Halloween Horror Nights tips!
24. Book A Vacation Package To Save Money
My top tip for you is to make your visit to HHN a full out vacation.
Lucky for you, Universal offers vacation packages that can save you some money and includes:
- One-night admission to Halloween Horror Nights
- Five days of admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay
- Accommodations at one of Universal Orlando’s magnificently themed hotels
- Access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights gate for faster entry into the event
- Early Park Admission during the day
- Complimentary transportation throughout the resort, and more!
This limited-time package is available for purchase now for use from September 1st to October 31st (savings vary based on length of stay).
Here are a few more Deals, Discounts and Vacation Packages for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando:
- Save 20% on a 4-Night Stay at Universal Hotels: Based on a 4-night stay
- Florida Resident 2-Night Halloween Horror Nights Hotel & Ticket Package: includes hotel accommodations, admission to all three theme parks, 1-night HHN admission and more!
- 1-Night Halloween Horror Nights Hotel & Ticket Package: includes hotel accommodations and 1-night HHN admission
- Florida Residents Hotel Rates: Florida Residents can save 35% when staying at a Universal Orlando Hotel
You can check out the official website to learn more about booking your vacation package.
Hipster Power Tip: Universal Orlando Resort hotel guests get access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights. This will give you the opportunity to get inside of the event faster!
25. Have Fun!
You’re really going to have a great time, so try not to stress too much and enjoy the delightfully, ghoulish frights of Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights!
Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the latest podcast episode on Apple or on your non-Apple device now!
My Final Thoughts on the Best Halloween Horror Nights Tips
I hope this Halloween Horror Nights Tips and Survival Guide helped you prepare for this year’s event.
If you’re questioning whether to go to HHN this year, remember that it is one of my favorite fall events to do in Orlando.
So, you must try it at least once! Halloween Horror Nights is one of the best things to do in Orlando for the fall.
Be sure to leave your own stories and let me know some of your favorite Halloween Horror Nights tips in the comments section below.
Also, let us know what your favorite Halloween Horror Nights tips, mazes and scare zones are of all time in the comments section below.
Check Out My Top Halloween Horror Nights Book Recommendation
For more information on the houses, shows, pricing, policies, and times please visit the official Halloween Horror Nights website.
If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll love these:
- Top 10 Ways to Find Cheap Halloween Horror Nights Tickets
- Which is better, Halloween Horror Nights or Howl-O-Scream?
- First Timer Solo Tips for Universal Orlando Resort
- Halloween Horror Nights History – 1991
- My Halloween Horror Nights Solo Trip Report
- Halloween Horror Nights History – 1992
- Universal Studios One-Day Itinerary
- Halloween Horror Nights Food Menu is Here…I’m Ready to DIG IN!
- Islands of Adventure One-Day Itinerary
- History of Halloween Horror Nights
I’ll be sure to keep this blog post updated once the information comes out so be sure to subscribe to my email list and bookmark this article for future Universal Orlando and HHN news!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
(Original date August 2012/Updated September 20, 2023)
I hope that near the end of the Mardi Gras event at universal studios Orlando Florida we get some new details for Halloween horror nights at universal studios Orlando Florida or wait until before or after mothers day or memorial day or before and after fathers day or before and after independence day or during the middle of July or end of July or the start of august or middle of august or end of august remember to never go alone. I also think jack the clown chance and Eddie Schmidt could return as this years icons or have doctor Albert Caine the caretaker from the fictional scary version of Carey Ohio and his adopted pyromaniac daughter Cindy Caine as this years icons or have Nathaniel Crow as this icon maybe connect this character with the stories of the pumpkin lord and his minions from last year.
I would looooove if Universal had some of those iconic HHN Icons return this year!