Fall Activities in Orlando: Your Ultimate Guide to Pumpkin-Spiced Sunshine

Let’s get one thing straight: just because Central Florida doesn’t trade in crunchy leaves and oversized scarves doesn’t mean it skips fall altogether. Orlando has officially entered its cozy-core era (minus the need for actual outerwear), and the lineup of fall activities is chef’s kiss. We’re talking pumpkin patches where you’ll sweat through your flannel for the photo, spooky theme park takeovers that put Hollywood to shame, and enough caramel apples to question your dental plan.

Sure, you won’t be apple-picking in a misty orchard with a PSL in hand. But you will be sipping cider slushies in shorts while watching a scarecrow dance to a DJ in Disney Springs. If you’ve been craving that autumn aesthetic without the frostbite, consider this your golden ticket. Fall in Orlando isn’t just a season. It’s a personality. And yes, it comes with cinnamon churros. Let’s go.

PSLs & Prep Work: What to Know Before You Go

Before you dive headfirst into hayrides and haunted houses, a little planning will go a long way, especially in a city where “fall” still feels like summer in a denim jacket. Think lightweight layers (because yes, it’s still 85 degrees), pre-booked tickets for popular events, and a game plan for beating the weekend crowds. Whether you’re wrangling kids, coordinating a group costume, or just trying to squeeze it all in before bedtime, consider this your fall fun survival tip: the early bird gets the pumpkin donut.

Buy Your Fall Activities Orlando Tickets

Want to make your fall fun even sweeter? Grab tickets to top fall activities in Orlando on Tripster for the lowest rates online, no coupon hunting required. 

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Bundle with a hotel stay – especially one that includes free breakfast – and you’ll save more while fueling up for a full day of pumpkins, parades, and park-hopping.

General Tips for Orlando in the Fall

Fall activities in Orlando come with sunshine, not sweater weather. Pack lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle, then toss in a poncho for those classic afternoon showers. Visit on weekdays or early in the season for fewer crowds and better parking. Book everything ahead, from theme park tickets to dinner reservations, because fall festivals in Orlando fill up fast.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom

This special-ticket event at Walt Disney World is one of the top fall events in Orlando. Buy tickets early since nights sell out fast and arrive by 4 p.m. to enjoy extra park time. Costumes are allowed, so choose something festive and breathable for that warm Central Florida air. Prioritize rare characters, Halloween parades, and trick-or-treat trails for maximum fall fun.

fall and autumn decor with pumpkins in Disneyland in Los Angeles, California, USA
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World via Facebook

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida

If you love jump scares and spooky vibes, Halloween Horror Nights is a must-do fall activity in Orlando. Grab an Express Pass to skip long lines and use “Scream Early” access to hit haunted houses before the crowds. Wear comfy shoes, pack earplugs, and hunt down specialty snacks early. This high-energy event blends live entertainment, themed food and beverages, and big scares that are anything but subtle.

Bands, Brew & BBQ at SeaWorld Orlando

This fall festival in SeaWorld Orlando is all about bold flavors and even bolder music. Grab the barbecue lanyard to sample smoked goodness without draining your wallet and arrive early for the live music shows. Explore booths serving regional barbecue styles while sipping craft brews. Between the food, concerts, and family friendly vibes, this one’s a must.

Dragons: Hidden Treasure Quest at Harry P. Leu Gardens

One of the most unique fall activities in Orlando, this garden quest mixes whimsy with a hint of adventure. Bring a flashlight, wear sturdy shoes, and plan 2–3 hours to enjoy the glowing trails. Hydrate and hit the Welcome Center before you start. This is festive fun with just the right amount of mystery and magic.

Howl-O-Scream Orlando

Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando is not for the faint of heart. This separately ticketed, adults-leaning event features haunted houses, scare zones, themed bars, and DJs spinning through the night. Add in twisted takes on theme park classics and you’ve got one of the boldest halloween activities in Orlando. Come for the frights, stay for the food and beverages… if you can stomach them.

SeaWorld Orlando Spooktacular

Spooktacular is a family friendly daytime event at SeaWorld Orlando is all treats, no tricks. Kids can dress up and trick-or-treat their way through decorated trails, meet Halloween characters, and dance at a bubble-filled party zone. It’s one of the best fall activities in Orlando for younger kids. Bonus: it’s included with regular park admission, so no extra ticket stress.

Mortem Manor in Kissimmee

Mortem Manor is a year-round haunted house that levels up during spooky season. Located in Old Town Kissimmee, this indoor scare-fest is packed with live actors, special effects, and all the creepy vibes you didn’t ask for. It’s a quick but terrifying detour from typical fall fun. Grab some snacks from nearby food trucks to recover afterward.

A Petrified Forest in Altamonte Springs

Just north of Orlando, A Petrified Forest brings small-town horror vibes with massive heart. This outdoor trail-style haunt features live actors, immersive sets, and plenty of “I regret this already” moments. Wear good shoes, arrive early, and expect to get chased. It’s one of the most underrated fall events in Orlando, especially for thrill-seekers outside the theme park bubble.

sun setting over the fall autumn trees in the Mark Twain National Forest near Branson, Missouri, USA

Pumpkin Patches in Orlando

Southern Hill Farms (Clermont)

This is the gold standard of fall in Central Florida, with a massive pumpkin patch, corn maze, U-pick sunflowers, and plenty of photo ops. Weekends bring live music, food trucks, and a petting zoo, so plan for a full day. Tickets must be bought online in advance and yes, they do sell out.

Harvest Holler Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch (Polk City)

If you’re looking for rustic charm, this one brings all the country vibes. There’s a pumpkin patch, hayrides, a corn maze, and old-school fun like tire swings and corn play pits. It’s low-key, relaxed, and perfect for younger kids who just want to run wild.

Long & Scott Farms (Mt. Dora)

Come for the pumpkin patch, stay for the epic corn maze with multiple paths and levels of difficulty. There’s also sunflower picking, a rope maze, and giant slides for extra energy burn. This one leans heavy on the family friendly fun without cutting corners.

Partin Ranch Corn Maze (Kenansville)

Only open on weekends, this patch delivers with hayrides, pony rides, and a solid variety of local food vendors. It’s got the festive energy without the overwhelming crowds. Expect pumpkins, corn mazes, and plenty of space to roam.

Mick Farms (St. Cloud)

This family-run farm is smaller but full of charm, with a cozy pumpkin patch and U-pick sunflower field. There’s also a little farm stand selling fresh produce and fall goodies. It’s a solid choice for a quick visit that still checks all the fall boxes.

Sanlando Pumpkin Patch (Longwood)

This church-run pumpkin patch is basic in the best way. No entry fee, tons of photo ops, and rows of pumpkins ready for the picking. It’s a great last-minute option when you want fall vibes without the full-day commitment.

Outdoor Fall Festivals in Orlando

54th Annual Fall Fiesta in the Park (Lake Eola Park)

This long-running festival takes over Lake Eola with hundreds of arts and crafts vendors, food, and live music in the heart of downtown. It’s a free, walkable event that draws a big crowd, so come early for parking and prime shopping. Think handmade goods, food trucks, and the ultimate excuse to spend a fall Saturday outside.

Fall Fest 2025! (Trinity Downtown)

Hosted by Trinity Lutheran Church, this family-friendly festival brings all the classics: bounce houses, food and beverages, and a festive “truck or treat” setup for kids. It starts at 3 p.m. and makes a great pre-dinner stop for local families. Simple, stress-free fun in the middle of the city.

Goblin Market (Central Florida Fairgrounds)

This Halloween-inspired art market leans quirky, creative, and slightly spooky. Expect a full lineup of artists, live entertainment, food, and a costume contest that draws some serious looks. If you’re into handcrafted oddities and all things festive, this one’s worth dressing up for.

Orlando, But Make It Fall

From haunted houses to pumpkin patches, cider slushies to corn mazes, fall in Orlando proves you don’t need crisp air to feel the season. Whether you’re chasing thrills at Halloween Horror Nights, picking the perfect gourd in Clermont, or dancing through downtown festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the autumn vibes. Grab your tickets, your sunscreen, and maybe a cinnamon churro or two. Fall fun in Central Florida is officially in session.

Fall Activities Orlando FAQs

Yes, especially for major events like theme park parties or haunted attractions. Booking early guarantees your spot and often saves money too.

Tripster offers instant ticket confirmation, no surprise fees, and mobile-friendly booking. You can also bundle your tickets with a hotel stay for extra savings.

Definitely. Bundling your tickets with a hotel that includes free breakfast is a simple way to cut costs and stay fueled for the day.

It’s a special-ticket event at Walt Disney World with early park access, trick-or-treating, parades, and character meet-and-greets. Costumes are encouraged, so go all in but keep it breathable.

Yes, and that’s the point. Expect intense haunted houses, live entertainment, and a few scream-worthy surprises around every corner.

This event mixes fall food favorites with live music and regional barbecue booths. Grab a sampler lanyard and come hungry.

Absolutely. It’s full of daytime trick-or-treating trails, character encounters, and dance parties with zero scares.

It’s an enchanting nighttime scavenger hunt with glowing trails and magical details. Bring a flashlight and good shoes to enjoy the full experience.

Yes, Mortem Manor in Kissimmee and A Petrified Forest in Altamonte Springs both offer serious scares. They’re great options for thrill-seekers looking for something a little more local.

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