The Best Things to Do This Fall 2025 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Key Takeaways Section:
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of the best fall destinations in Florida, offering seasonal events and attractions for both adults and kids.
- Howl-O-Scream returns Sept. 5 – Nov. 1 with haunted houses, scare zones, live shows, themed bars, and spine-chilling thrills (separately ticketed).
- Families can enjoy daytime Halloween events, including Kandy’s Sweetacular Celebration and Sesame Street Safari of Fun weekends in October.
- The all-new Wild Oasis kids’ realm features Habitat Hideaway animal habitats, Treetop Drop, Canopy Climb, and Enchanted Falls splash zone.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Tampa this Fall, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay should be at the top of your list. The park comes alive each autumn with seasonal events for all ages, from family-friendly trick-or-treating to Tampa’s premier Halloween scare event. Plus, with the recent opening of Wild Oasis, there’s a brand-new kids’ adventure area to explore.
Here’s your guide to everything happening at Busch Gardens this Fall.
What Is the Best Halloween Event in Florida?
Voted #1 Best Theme Park Halloween Event of 2024, Busch Gardens® Howl-O-Scream® is back in 2025 and scarier than ever. This after-dark event takes over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister live shows, themed bars, and plenty of terrifying surprises. Unspeakable horror lurks in every corner—even on Busch Gardens’ most thrilling rides. Once you’re inside, there’s nothing to fear but everything.
Howl-O-Scream is open select nights until November 1. See the best deals on Howl-O-Scream tickets.
When Are Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Tampa?
Every Saturday and Sunday from now to October 26th from 12:00-4:00 pm, Busch Gardens Festival Walkway transforms into Kandy’s Sweetacular Celebration! This family-friend Halloween event offers safe trick-or-treating, festive activities, and plenty of sweet surprises throughout the park. It’s a fun way for kids to celebrate Halloween without the scares.
Young guests will also love celebrating the season with their favorite Sesame Street friends during Halloween at Sesame Street Safari of Fun. This limited-time event includes a Halloween-themed show, festive meet-and-greets, and dance parties where kids can join the fun.
Kandy’s Sweetacular Celebration and Halloween at Sesame Street Safari of Fun are included with admission to Busch Gardens.
When Is the Next Pin-Trading Events Happening at Busch Gardens Fall 2025?
Collectors won’t want to miss Pin Trading Weekend, where you can discover new and rare pins, trade with fellow fans, and take home a unique piece of Busch Gardens fun. Join in the fun November 22nd at Tiger Lodge from 2:00 – 4:00pm.
Need help finding Tiger Lodge? Find your way around the park more easily with the Busch Gardens App.
Are There New Attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay?
Busch Gardens is proud to introduce a brand-new area designed just for kids and families: Wild Oasis. It’s North America’s most immersive kid-friendly adventure realm, combining play areas, animal encounters, and interactive experiences. Highlights include:
- Habitat Hideaway – Meet new residents like capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys, and tropical birds in a lush rainforest setting.
- Treetop Drop – A 35-foot jungle-themed drop tower with multimedia effects that immerse riders in a rainforest adventure.
- Canopy Climb – A four-level climbing challenge with over 200 feet of trails and vertical climbs up to 45 feet.
- Enchanted Falls – An interactive splash pad and spray zone for cooling off between adventures.
Wild Oasis is perfect for younger guests, but there’s plenty here to entertain explorers of all ages.
Plan Your Fall Visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
From the spine-chilling thrills of Howl-O-Scream to the sweet family fun of Kandy’s Sweetacular and the exciting new Wild Oasis kids’ area, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of the best places to celebrate Fall in Florida. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or little ones, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season.
Start planning your visit today and make the most of everything Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has to offer. Become a passholder for amazing benefits such as early access, exclusive offers, and so much more to enjoy all year round.