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SeaWorld Orlando - What's New, Events, Refurbishments & Closures September 2023

Updated: Oct 2, 2023

Check out all the latest news and happenings from SeaWorld Orlando, including special events, limited time offers, ride closures and more.


SeaWorld Orlando - What's New, Events, Refurbishments & Closures

Welcome to another month of special events, closures and refurbishments at SeaWorld Orlando.


September is a great month to visit SeaWorld Orlando, the crowds are thinner on the ground, the weather is ever so slightly cooler, and best of all spooky season returns!


We know it can be difficult to keep up to date with what's happening at the theme parks, and that's why we produce this monthly update, so you can enjoy all that's new and happening, and check out which rides and attractions are closed for refurbishment.


SeaWorld Orlando - What's New, Events, Refurbishments & Closures

SeaWorld Orlando Is Now Cashless

From Thursday August 31, the park became officially cashless. Only card and mobile payment will be accepted throughout the parks, including parking toll booths, ticket windows, restaurants, and retail locations.


The parks will only accept American Express, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa credit cards and most debit cards, plus Apple Pay and Google Pay.


For anyone who only has cash, there will be Cash-to-Card kiosks set up throughout the park at no extra charge.


The Cash-to-Card kiosks will convert cash to a Visa prepaid debit card at no charge. You will not be asked to enter personal information. Up to $500 can be loaded onto one Visa prepaid debit card at a time, with no minimum amount required.


Cards are not reloadable, but additional cash can be loaded onto a new card free of charge.


Still have money on your card when you leave the park? Visa prepaid debit cards can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.


SeaWorld Orlando - What's New, Events, Refurbishments & Closures

Weather-or-Not Assurance

SeaWorld Orlando have introducing "Weather-or-Not" Assurance, a new policy inviting guests to return another day free of charge if extreme weather ruins their day, covering a wider range of weather conditions, and the most generous in the theme park industry.


This expanded offering is designed to give consumers peace of mind when planning their visits. If extreme weather impacts their experience in the park or impacts their flight plans for an upcoming visit,SeaWorld Orlando invites them back within 12 months – and at no charge.


The Weather-or-Not Assurance program solidifies and guarantees the value of guests' SeaWorld experience. This applies year-round, covering weather events for every season such as rain, lightning, extreme heat, wind, snow, hail and more.


The Weather-or-Not Assurance program applies when rides are closed for 60 minutes or more due to weather. Additionally, if inclement weather causes early closure or negatively impacts the park's operating hours, guests are eligible for a return visit at no additional cost.


Guests must be present in the park on the day of their ticket or fill out an online form with their original order number to be eligible for a return visit at no charge. Tickets must be used within 12 months of the issuance of their originally planned ticket.


SeaWorld Orlando - What's New, Events, Refurbishments & Closures

Howl-O-Scream At SeaWorld Orlando

Select Nights, September 8 - October 31, 2023

Howl-O-Scream resurfaces at SeaWorld Orlando and this year you will have nowhere to hide. Howl-O-Scream has washed ashore, and this time, the fear is everywhere.


Howl-O-Scream is back for its third year to fuel your nightmares, returning with ALL-NEW horror-filled houses (FIVE total) and SEVEN scare zones.


This years Howl-O-Scream Orlando will take place select nights from September 8 - October 31, and trust us when we say that its back, bigger and better than ever, and now we know the full line-up for this years event!


Howl-O-Scream Orlando

The Sirens will be at the center of this years event, with guests encountering the evil siren sisters, Frost, Flame, Darkness, Hex and Scratch .


Each siren will be in the high-energy show Siren’s Song, and will feature in many of the houses and scare zones.


Haunted houses this year include Beneath the Ice - The Meltdown, featuring Frost and Flame, Dead Vines: Nawlin’s Nightmare, featuring Hex; and D2LER1UM666 Laboratories, set in an underwater research facility.


Scare zones this year include Blood Light District, featuring Scratch; Carn-EVIL Pier, with demented clowns; and Frozen in Terror: Alive In the Ice.


Read on for the details, if you dare...


 Howl-O-Scream Orlando

Haunted Houses

Hear every bloodcurdling shriek. Feel every spine-tingling terror. Get ready for the haunted houses of SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream. There’s no turning back as you brave dark passageways and round dimly lit corners, hoping you can avoid what’s lurking in the depths. The legends are true, the fear is real, and the only way out is through.


NEW! D3LER1UM666 Laboratories

Welcome to the headquarters of a unique mercenary group. An organization established by the government to counter the threat posed by the Sirens and other dangerous sea creatures.


While these creatures are typically unseen in human occupied territories, recent attacks on humans at the surface necessitate a swift resolution.

The public has been invited to tour the facility to gain support and understanding for the cause. Based on the ocean floor, D3LER1UM666 houses countless abstract sea creatures. These dangerous creatures are studied, experimented on, and often tortured.

You will be transported to the bottom by an undersea elevator. Rest assured you will not be alone on your journey. A dedicated task force is in place to oversee your safety. What could possibly go wrong?


DEAD VINES: NAWLINS NIGHTMARE

From deep in the gator filled Louisiana bayous, through its grand estates with dark backstories, and decaying cemeteries. All the way to the wild antics of Bourbon Street… Your journey through this myriad of horrors will be nothing less than a constant nightmare.


An ominous presence protects this land from those not welcome. You can’t go back, so you must press on forward. Hex has chosen this eclectic location as her home, and you are trespassing. It is said that if you love New Orleans, she’ll have you back… but first you must survive. Mardi On!


NEW! Dead Vines: Nawlins Nightmare

From deep in the gator filled Louisiana bayous, through its grand estates with dark backstories, and decaying cemeteries.


All the way to the wild antics of Bourbon Street… Your journey through this myriad of horrors will be nothing less than a constant nightmare. An ominous presence protects this land from those not welcome. You can’t go back, so you must press on forward.


Hex has chosen this eclectic location as her home, and you are trespassing. It is said that if you love New Orleans, she’ll have you back… but first you must survive. Mardi On!


NEW! Beneath the Ice: The Meltdown

During Frost’s attack on this arctic research facility, the scientists along with a special government task force were able to engage in defense. The battle was fierce, but the Ice Siren was captured and contained. The facility is destroyed and many of the crew have been killed or turned into mindless minions. Frost’s cries for help echoed through the frozen mountains only to be heard by her twin sister Flame who immediately comes to her rescue. The few defenders that are still alive will soon be facing the scorching wrath of the Fire Siren as she burns through the facility to rescue her icy twin.


Captain’s Revenge: Drowned in Darkness

Lifting shanties and tales of untold fortune have lured you aboard this ship. The serenity you once knew has been drowned out by the echoes of howling winds and crashing waves.


Darkness is here… and this vessel belongs to her vengeance. You may just find yourself a permanent part of this crew, driven mad by cursed treasure and doomed to face the fury of the sea while sailing endlessly to an infinite horizon. Your ship has definitely not come in.


Blood Beckoning

A neglected and ignored borough forgotten by the society that surrounds it. Crumbling buildings and darkened alley ways reek of death and decay.


A place where the less fortunate, sick, and homeless are sent to live their remaining days out of sight and mind. Once worshipped immortals, now shunned, and forced to join the rotting scourge feed on the blood of the lost in this distressed urban kingdom.


Once you enter this decrepit realm; beware of the corners you turn and the shadows you cross. The only way out is through the beating heart of the condemned district. Her name is Scratch, and beauty is in her blood. Whose blood is running through her veins? Could it be yours?


Howl-O-Scream Orlando

Scare Zones & Roaming Haunts

There are no safe zones. There are no places to hide. The scares are everywhere, and the roaming haunts never weaken. Get ready for immersive terror at every turn during SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream. Stay alert and be prepared for anything, because you never know what’s waiting up ahead (or creeping up behind you).



NEW! Blood Light District

Those who walk the streets of this borough will tempt your deepest desires. You can fight their beckoning, but you will not win. Do not be fooled by their beauty and lust. Stay too long and you will be forever bound by blood.


NEW! Toxic Turmoil

A toxic catastrophe has caused this hidden chemical landfill to be overcome by mutated creatures, humans, and plant life. Your only chance is to make it to the exit at the other end of the yard. Be careful where you step, not everything is as it seems.


NEW! CarnEvil Pier

The freaks, sinister Barkers, and demented clowns that inhabit the Carn-Evil Pier welcome you to stay a while. Have a drink and a snack. You can even try your luck at the games… but beware, if you lose, your soul belongs to the pier.


NEW! Portal of Passage

Welcome to Portal of Passage. We invite you to meet some of Howl-O Scream’s most devious inhabitants. Have a drink, catch a performance, and enjoy the atmosphere while you wait for the night to begin. The gates will be opening soon, will you be a spectator, a participant, or a victim?


Frozen Terror - Alive in the Ice

The brutal Arctic conditions are the least of your worries. These will be the most persistent zombies you'll ever meet. Not even the frozen Arctic wasteland can wipe these creatures, so remember that before entering this zone.


Witchcraft Bayou

It’s hazardous to pass through this backwater bayou, but there’s no way around. Voodoo and witchcraft aren’t real, right? Stay alert, or the dark magic will drag you down.


Terrors of the Deep

Out of the dark depths you will encounter a beautiful sunken village filled with remnants and treasures from the surface. These treasures have been claimed by a cursed Pirate crew that will give No Quarter to scallywags and landlubbers.


SeaWorld Orlando Howl-O-Scream

Terrifying Shows

Even amid so much mayhem, the show must go on. Duck inside and be mesmerized by a raucous, high-energy musical dance show. Or witness the outdoor spectacle as the ominous story of the one who has emerged from lake unfolds before you. Or take a break and hear adventure stories from the famed siren hunter, from the horrific to hilarious.


NEW! Cursed Lagoon

What's lurking beneath the surface? See for yourself...if you dare. Located in Forever Pearls.


Siren's Song

The sirens are here to tell their story…and feast on your fears. Don’t miss a moment of this mesmerizing outdoor show.

FAN FAVORITE! Monster Stomp

Prepare yourself for a darkly entertaining, pulse-pounding musical performance starring the one and only Jack the Ripper.


SeaWorld Orlando Howl-O-Scream

Themed Bar Experiences

Howl-O-Scream Orlando will feature several themed specialty bars serving delicious cocktails including the signature drink The Siren’s Kiss.


Delicious food will also be on offer, including the Vampire Burger, Bloody Rids, Dead Flesh, and more.


NEW! CarnEvil Curiosities

Step right up to a world of wonder and evil. Don’t be fooled by the unknowing wanderers who make their way to this specialty bar. The carnival magic is contagious, don’t let it infect you.


Longshoremen Tavern

This year, there be a new tavern in port where pirates warm their bellies with flamin’ rum. You might hear tales of mythical monsters and intrepid adventurers. You might discover an old SeaWorld treasure that’s been (partially) resurrected. Take a break from the sirens and squalls and plant your weary hides here. The Longshoremen are dying to entertain you.


Tormented

This is one place where a cold frosty one is a good thing. Take refuge from the wintry terrors of the Arctic hellscape outside and do a little refueling here. If you’re feeling mischievous, you can even join in and frighten your fellow expeditioners while they’re braving the horrors beneath the ice. How’s that for refreshing?


Poison Grotto

What’s your poison? Unwind with a refreshing concoction and explore the enticing atmosphere of this unearthly lounge. It’s a fleeting escape from the deadly vines and savage servants nearby. Just be sure to keep your eyes open and pay proper respect to the one who lured you in. You’re her guest here, and she’s always watching.


Sirens' Last Call

Creatures of the shadows need a place to play too. Could it be this rusted-out underground warehouse? Glance around and do your best to blend in. The regulars here are devoted followers of the sirens, and they know how to spot an outsider. Be sure to pay homage to them by trying the bar’s signature drink, “The Siren’s Kiss.”


SeaWorld Orlando Howl-O-Scream

Rides & Experiences

Have you ever ridden your favorite attraction in the dark? It wouldn’t be a SeaWorld visit without a ride or two, but it wouldn’t be Howl-O-Scream without a dose of nighttime terror. Meanwhile, sinister interactive surprises await at your favorite bar haunts. After nightfall, every moment of fun comes with a splash of fear.


One of the best ways for guests to experience Howl-O-Scream is with SeaWorld Orlando’s Monster Sale offering 40% off.


From now until August 20, guests can purchase a general admission ticket to Howl-O-Scream for only $37.99. Annual Pass Members can get even bigger discounts with ticket prices as low as $32.99!


Plus, guests can now scream their way through every night with the unlimited admission ticket starting as low as $104.99 without blackout dates.


For more information on Howl-O-Scream and to purchase tickets and add-ons, click here.


SeaWorld Orlando Halloween Spooktacular

SeaWorld Halloween Spooktacular

Select Dates, September 16 - October 31, 2023


SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular is back with fun surprises, candy, costumes and more! Kids love trick-or-treating (with purchase of reusable bag) during this daytime event as they explore the decorated trail and meet colorful characters.


This year be sure to check out all their immersive family Spooktacular Festivities and plan your visit this fall.


SeaWorld Spooktacular runs select days, Sept. 16 – Oct. 31, and is included with park admission.


Saturdays & Sundays, September 16 - October 1

Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, October 6 - October 30

Halloween, October 31


SeaWorld Orlando Halloween Spooktacular

Experience all the family fun of Halloween this fall. Adventure through Key West and around Dolphin Theater for some sweet surprises.


Make a new furry friend at Sesame Street Land, from our not-too-spooky Sesame Street Halloween Parade to story time with Big Bird, there is so much to do and see during SeaWorld’s Spooktacular..


And even upgrade your day to have a special breakfast with Count von Count. It’s all happening during SeaWorld’s Spooktacular.


SeaWorld Orlando Halloween Spooktacular

Trick-or-Treat Trail

Find waves of Halloween fun when your costumed youngers trick-or-treat for ghoulish goodies. Each station on our trick-or-treat trail features an assortment of candy all will enjoy. Trick-or-Treating is available to guests who purchase a reusable bag.


Count von Count's Spooktacular Breakfast

Start your day in a deliciously spooky way with Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast. Get your fill of morning favorites and family-friendly Halloween fun with your Sesame Street friends!


Sesame Street Halloween Parade

This colorful, musical, and show-stopping parade will get the whole family in the Halloween spirit. Dance and play along as Elmo, The Count, Big Bird and friends dress up for Halloween with surprises galore, so get ready for not-too-spooky Halloween fun!


Halloween Storytime with Big Bird

Gather around Big Bird’s nest to hear some of his favorite Halloween stories during Storytime with Big Bird, happening at select times throughout the day.


Meet a Mermaid

Meet our friendly Halloween mermaids each event day in this immersive experience in the Key West area.


Halloween Scavenger Hunt

Families can purchase a Spooktacular Scavenger Hunt Map at Coconut Bay Trader’s Store to explore the park and track down SeaWorld's colorful Halloween friends. Redeem completed map at Coconut Bay Traders for a special prize!


Halloween Cookie Decorating and Kids Crafts

Kids will love decorating fun fall and Halloween crafts. Visit the area between Sesame Street Land and Wild Arctic on Spooktacular event days from 12PM - 4PM to participate. Crafts are included with park admission. An additional cookie decorating kit is available for purchase.


Scarecrow Halloween Dance Party

Join our scarecrows for a kid-friendly Halloween dance party! Music and fun fill the air in the Journey to Atlantis Plaza only at SeaWorld Spooktacular.


Pumpkin Garden and Storyteller

Wander through the Pumpkin Garden to see how many friendly pumpkin fish you can spot. During your travels, you may even run into the Pumpkin Queen as she reads stories in the garden, happening at select times throughout the day.


Costume Contest

Costumed kids visiting Spooktacular on Fridays can enter our Halloween costume contest. Visit the Journey to Atlantis plaza to enter the contest and learn more.


Not a want, but a need, these Loungefly bags are the perfect accessory for a night at Howl-O-Scream!

This year at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay you can now get your hands on a brand new collection of Loungefly bags that are the perfect accessory for a night at Howl-O-Scream, the after hours Halloween event that takes place at both parks.


Not a want, but a need, these Loungefly bags are the perfect accessory for a night at Howl-O-Scream!

Get yours at select stores around the park starting today, and show up to Howl-O-Scream in scary good style!


SeaWorld Orlando Pipeline: The Surf Coaster

Pipeline: The Surf Coaster
Now Open!

First up is Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, which is Orlando's newest and most unique coaster.


Pipeline is the first-of-its-kind stand up surf coaster where you experience the rush of launching 110 feet up at 60 mph and feeling every bank and curve as though you’re really riding the waves, thanks to innovative dynamic seats that gives you unparalleled freedom of movement.


Experience the ultimate thrill with the addition of this seventh coaster to the Coaster Capital of Orlando.


Turi’s Kid Cove at Aquatica Orlando Waterpark

Aquatica Orlando

Aquatica Orlando, recently voted America’s Best Waterpark for the fourth year in a row by USA Today’s 10Best 2023 Readers Choice awards, is getting ready for a fun filled summer.


Turi’s Kid Cove
Now Open

Grab your best buddies and get ready to splish, splash, spray, and play in this ALL-NEW water adventure attraction filled with watering palms, tipping buckets, spraying jets, water bobbles, and more. Plus, your kids can grab a tube and glide into fun on the ALL-NEW Tamariki Twirl, a kid-sized wave slide designed just for them!


Fun Fact: The ALL-NEW Tamariki Twirl is a smaller version of the water parks big kids slide, KareKare Curl!


Other new attraction in the ALL-NEW Turi’s Kid Cove includes the slides, Zippity Zappity, Slider Rider, Racer Chaser, and Slippity Dippity.


For more info on Aquatica Orlando check out the official website.


American flag at SeaWorld Orlando

Ride & Attraction Refurbishments And Closures

The following areas and attractions are temporarily closed:


None!!!


SeaWorld Orlando at sunset

For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day.


You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.


Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando.



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