Explore haunted attractions, theme parks, and vacation spots across Arizona, Southern California, and Las Vegas. From ghost tours and escape rooms to family trips to Disneyland and Universal Studios, dive into reviews and articles on entertainment, nostalgia, and the paranormal. Whether you're chasing thrills or uncovering eerie legends, this blog is your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Update, This has been confirmed: Universal Studios Hollywood spokeswoman Audrey Eig stated “We continually evaluate our entertainment offerings and are thrilled guests have enjoyed ‘The Walking Dead’ attraction as part of our daytime mix,” She continued to report “A temporary “Walking Dead” maze will return during the park’s annual Halloween Horror Nights event.”
This information has not been confirmed by Universal Studios Hollywood, so treat it as a rumour until an official announcement is made.
According to www.insideuniversal.net, the only source I could find making this claim: The Walking Dead Attraction (TWDA) which is a year-round walk-through haunted house, may close on March 3rd, 2020.
Located in the Upper Lot, the attraction is located near the theme park’s entrance in a building built specifically for it. The attraction opened July, 4th 2016.
You follow in the footsteps of Rick Grimes, Daryl Dixon and other survivors, making your way through iconic scenes!
The speculation appears to come from the walk-through's proximity to Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash Attraction, set to open this Spring. Universal Studios is in the process of transforming the area from Baker Street to Pets Place, connecting the family-friendly Illumination Entertainment properties.
TWDA has been a staple in Halloween Horror Nights and replaced the previous haunted attraction 'Universal’s House of Horrors'.
So what are your thoughts? Will it close? Should it Close?
Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood - Throwback Thursdays Event
Enter a terrifying world of imagination at Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights: an intense, spine chilling event, now with more mazes than ever.
This year's Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood in Southern California time travels to the 1980s with it's Throwback Thursdays celebration.
The Haunted Mazes this year include classic 80s movies such as the Ghostbusters, Creepshow and Killer Klowns from Outer Space.
Some other Highlights Universal's Throwback Thursdays include classic '80s music from a live tribute band and a DJ dance party hosted by Beetlejuice. 80s songs and music videos playing throughout the event will make you want to dance! There is themed food and guests are encouraged to dress in their finest decade-worthy fashion. Don't forget the fanny pack, leg warmers and mullets.
Throwback Thursdays will take place every Thursday night during "Halloween Horror Nights" and is included as part of admission to the event.
Halloween Horror Nights starts September Friday the 13th.
Throwback Thursdays dates include:
September 19th and 26th
October 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st (Halloween)
November 1
Tickets options for Halloween Horror Nights include:
Universal Express One-time priority access to all mazes and theme park rides.
After 2 p.m. Day/Night Combo Experience the park's popular daytime attractions (Harry Potter), and remain for the terror that awaits at Halloween Horror Nights.
R.I.P. Tour Groups featuring a VIP guide, unlimited Universal Express access to all mazes, attractions, private VIP trolley transportation to backlot mazes, interactive themed photo ops and special tour of the Universal backlot, gourmet buffet dinner at the VIP Dining Room and complimentary valet parking.
This year's Halloween Horror Nights maze and attraction lineup includes:
Us☆☆☆☆☆ - Kind of mind twisting
Based on the blockbuster film from Universal Pictures
Ghostbusters☆☆☆☆ - Nostalgia, well done story, not scary (not meant to be)
Sony Pictures' classic 1984 film comes to life for the first time ever
Stranger Things☆☆☆☆ - Never started the show, but well done
Based on seasons 2 and 3 of Netflix's supernatural thriller
Killer Klowns from Outer Space☆☆☆☆ - Fluorescent and fun
A popular 1980s horror sci-fi film
Creepshow☆☆☆ - I liked this one more than the kids did
Inspired by the 1982 cult classic movie directed by George Romero.
Frankenstein Meets The Wolf Man☆☆ - kind of boring, could have been great
Inspired by Universal's original cinematic monster, Universal Studios invented the horror film genre
House of 1000 Corpses☆☆☆☆ - Very good scene I can't spoil made it go from 3 to 4
Inspired by Lionsgate's 2003 cult classic film directed by Rob Zombie
Holidayz in Hell☆☆☆☆☆ - I love this idea
An original maze featuring demented versions of the seasonal holidays
Every October since 2003, the Adventuredome Theme Park has changed into Fright Dome, a Halloween-themed theme park.
However this longtime Halloween tradition will not be happening at Circus Circus Hotel & Resort Casino this year. Sadly it will not happen at all this year.
Circus Circus has not released a reason.
Egan Productions, which produces the Fright Dome event, did release a statement that ultimately gives hope of finding a new venue for the 2019 Halloween Season: "We look forward to many successful Halloween events in the future.".
"Circus Circus has informed Egan Productions that it will not move forward with Fright Dome for 2018. While we regret this bad news, we are grateful to the people of Las Vegas for supporting Fright Dome over the past fifteen years. We look forward to many successful Halloween events in the future."
-Egan Productions
📍 Location: 4243 W Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale, AZ 85310 🌊 Formerly:Wet 'n' Wild Phoenix 🎢 Operator: Six Flags Entertainment Corp.
Six Flags Expands – The Largest Water Park Operator in North America
In a major acquisition deal, Six Flags Entertainment Corp. (NYSE: SIX) officially took over Wet 'n' Wild Phoenix, renaming it Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. This move made Six Flags the largest water park operator in North America, adding several properties to its growing portfolio, including:
🌊 Wet 'n' Wild Splashtown (Houston’s largest water park)
🎢 Darien Lake (Buffalo, NY – 1,000-acre resort with a theme park, water park, campground, and hotel)
🏜️ Frontier City (Oklahoma City theme park)
🌊 White Water Bay (24-acre water park near Oklahoma City)
What’s New at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix?
With the rebranding, Hurricane Harbor Phoenix has undergone several upgrades to enhance the guest experience.
✅ Caribbean-Themed Renovations – The park now features tropical décor, additional seating areas, and an updated dining experience. ✅ More Seating & Relaxation Areas – Enhanced lounging spots to help guests escape the Arizona heat. ✅ 30 Thrilling Water Rides & Attractions – Including a massive wave pool, adrenaline-pumping water slides, and kid-friendly splash zones.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix Season Pass & Membership
🎟️ Season Passes Start at $59.99 – Includes unlimited access to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix and 16 additional Six Flags parks nationwide.
💳 Monthly Memberships as Low as $6.49 – Depending on the membership level, perks may include unlimited soft drinks, preferred parking, and extra discounts.
🔥 Bonus: All Season Pass Holders Get Free Entry to These Six Flags Parks:
Plan Your Visit – Opening Dates & Exclusive Member Access
📅 Opening Day: March 16, 2019 🔑 Exclusive Member Preview Days: March 9 & 10, 2019
Whether you're looking for heart-pounding water slides, a relaxing lazy river, or a fun-filled day with family, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix remains Arizona’s largest and most exciting water park.
💦 Ready for a summer of fun? Grab your Six Flags Season Pass and experience unlimited thrills at Hurricane Harbor Phoenix and beyond!
Jurassic Park Ride Closing & Transformation into Jurassic World Ride
🦖 Universal Studios Hollywood Announces Major Jurassic Park Ride Update
On May 10, 2018, Universal Studios Hollywood revealed that the beloved Jurassic Park: The Ride would close on September 3, 2018, to undergo a nine-month-long renovation. The revamped attraction is set to reopen as the Jurassic World Ride, bringing new technology, unseen dinosaurs, and an even more immersive experience.
What Was Jurassic Park: The Ride?
📅 Opened: June 21, 1996 🌊 Type: Water-based thrill ride 📖 Inspired by: Michael Crichton's novel & Steven Spielberg's blockbuster film
Guests boarded a boat to journey through a prehistoric world, encountering life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, before the adventure turned into a thrilling escape from a rampaging T-Rex. While the ride has remained a fan-favorite, aging animatronics and technological advancements have led to this highly anticipated transformation.
What to Expect from the New Jurassic World Ride?
Park officials promise a “whole new experience” with the introduction of:
🦖 New, Previously Unseen Dinosaurs – Expect lifelike creatures straight from the Jurassic World films.
🌊 State-of-the-Art Effects – Enhanced animatronics, water effects, and immersive storytelling.
🎢 A Tribute to Jurassic Park – While updated, the ride will still honor the legacy of the original attraction.
Why This Update is Exciting
🔥 More Immersive Experience – Cutting-edge technology will elevate the thrill factor.
🎥 Ties into the Jurassic World Franchise – Fans of Jurassic World & Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom will love the updated storyline and new creatures.
🏆 One of Universal’s Most Popular Attractions – A must-visit ride for theme park and dinosaur fans alike.
📅 Ride Closure Date: September 3, 2018 📅 Expected Reopening: Summer 2019 📍 Location: Universal Studios Hollywood
🦕 Prepare for an Adventure 65 Million Years in the Making – Jurassic World Ride is Coming Soon!
Bring in 2018 inside Universal Studios Hollywood during the first-ever EVE event.
This event is a variation of Universal Orlando’s annual EVE party, as the California Attraction holds its first-ever in-park New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec 31, 2017.
The first-ever New Year’s Eve event inside Universal Studios Hollywood is included in the price of theme park day admission for $105 and stay until 1 a.m. with a special park-wide countdown party starting at 9 p.m.
You can also purchase an after 6pm entry for $69, if you do not wish to enjoy all the day attractions.
Rides and attractions with early closures:
• Studio Tour – last tour departs 5:30pm
• WaterWorld – last show 7:35pm
• The Walking Dead Attraction – closes at 8pm
• Silly Swirly Fun Ride – closes at 8pm
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ – closes at 11:15pm
Also on Dec. 31, guests can see The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show several times each night, and celebrate the final day of “Grinchmas” with The Grinch.
Universal Plaza, Area near the Simpsons ride and an area near the Jurassic Park® ride will be transformed into three themed party hubs. At midnight there will be a traditional New Year countdown and a fireworks display visible in all there areas.
Food and beverages, including specialty desserts, champagne, beer and wine, as well as 2018 memorabilia will be available for purchase.
Be part of Hollywood’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood’s new EVE event this December 31st. For more information visit UniversalStudiosHollywood.com
Halloween Horror Nights officially launched at Universal Studios Hollywood October 9, 1997, it ran through the 2000 Halloween season and then returned in Halloween 2006. It has continued since.
Last year was my first year and I can not wait to return this year, with my kids this time.
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2017: Prepare for what is promoted as the scariest and most intense Halloween event in Southern California (100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608) and is created by the same minds and studio that bring many of your favorite blockbuster horror films.This year Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights features 8 terrifying mazes based on some of the most frightening television shows and movies.
The Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2017 line up includes The Walking Dead, Ash vs Evil Dead, Titans of Terror (Leatherface, Jason Voorhees and Freddy Krueger), the Roanoke chapter of FX's American Horror Story and Stanley Kubrick's The Shining. The one I am looking forward to SAW: The Games of Jigsaw and others still to be announced.
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Night 2017 hours and dates of operation: September 15th through November 4th 2017 Hours: 7:00pm - 2:00am Terror Tram line closes at 11:15 p.m. on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays and at 11:45 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and on Halloween.
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2017 ticket prices and admission varies based on day and type of tickets purchased.
RIP Tour: Unlimited Front of Line, gourmet buffet dining, guided walking tour, valet parking. R.I.P. Tour $269-319
Front Of the Line Ticket: Cut to the front one time at each maze, show, ride and Terror Tram.
Front of Line Ticket $169-219
Day Night Combo: Enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and more during the day and Halloween Horror Nights that night!
General Admission tickets $95-115
Front of Line $199-245
Universal Studios Hollywood 2017 Halloween Horror Nights Houses, Mazes, Scare Zones and Terror Tram:
SAW: The Games of Jigsaw
The SAW series is one of the highest grossing horror franchises of all time and this maze will bring his twisted traps to life. It might also feature a bit of a sneak peek at the upcoming eighth SAW film (Jigsaw, in theaters Oct. 27 2017). This maze will test you as you come face-to-face with mastermind Jigsaw and his collection of infamous traps.
The film franchise revolves around John Kramer, AKA the "Jigsaw Killer" or "Jigsaw". He was introduced only briefly in initial Saw movie and his character was developed in more detail in Saw II. Jigsaw traps them in situations that he calls "tests" or "games" to test their will to live through physical and psychological torture, rather than killing his victims outright.
American Horror Story: Roanoke
There is an isolated farmhouse Deep in the backwoods of North Carolina that will allow you to witness its centuries of horror. Legend says this house was built close to the site of the infamous "Lost Colony of Roanoke", an English settlement that mysteriously vanished back in the late 1500's.
The Shining
Welcome to The Overlook Hotel, an isolated century old hotel with a tragic history of murder and madness. During the harsh Colorado winter Jack Torrance a writer and former teacher who has agreed to be the caretaker for The Overlook Hotel. Be there to experience his descent into madness that will put his family and yours in grave danger as Jack slowly gets more violent and angry. See if Danny can use his special talent, the "Shining", to inform your group what is going on in the hotel before it is too late.
Ash vs Evil Dead
Witness an epic battle between the chainsaw-wielding Ash Williams and the Deadites in Ash vs Evil Dead.
Titans of Terror
Fall victim to some of the most deplorable slashers and killers in film history who need no introduction. See Leatherface (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre) wielding his chainsaw, Jason Voorhees (Friday the 13th) with his machete, and Freddy Krueger (A Nightmare on Elm Street) with his trademark glove.
Enter AMC's vision of a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies "The Walking Dead", presented by Universal Studios Hollywood. A fully immersive navigation through a world overrun by hungry walkers (you can call them biters if you want). This attraction is available year round, so make sure you get the other mazes done first.
The Titans of Terror Tram will be hosted by Good Guy Doll Chucky. You will be transported into a nightmare of carnage pitting you against the same characters you escaped from in the Titans of Terror Maze, you will be led by infamous serial killer doll Chucky as you navigate a portion of the world-famous back-lot.
As usual the Terror Tram includes being dropped off near the Bates Motel set from Psycho where you can get a picture with Norman Bates.
Scare Zones
Halloween Horror Nights 4 was the first year to introduce the scare zones. These are specific outdoor areas that feature themed costumed characters intent of scaring people who walk through the areas, it is necessary to travel through these scare zones to get to certain areas of the park.
Urban Inferno
Encounter Burnt Lost Souls, Half-Goat Executioners, Mad Monks, Blacksmiths Forging the chains of Purgatory and demons including the towering King and Queen.
Hell o ween
Witches, ghosts, vampires, werewolves and zombie children have come out to roam New York Street in celebration of Halloween.
Toxic Tunnel
Utility workers were doing repairs inside the tunnel and accidentally burst a pipe with toxic gas, everyone has been infected by the gas and turned into zombie-like sub-humanoids.
Rides
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Studio Tour and other select attractions will not be open during Halloween Horror Nights. To experience all our daytime attractions, check out our Day/Night Combo Ticket.
Some rides that will be open are:
Transformers™
Jurassic Park™
The Simpsons™
Revenge of the Mummy™
Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood R.I.P. Tour: The Ultimate VIP Experience
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most popular Halloween events in Los Angeles, packed with terrifying mazes, scare zones, and thrilling attractions. If you don’t have Front of the Line Passes, expect to spend a significant portion of your night waiting in long lines—which means you may not get to experience everything. (See my HHN survival guide)
How to Skip the Long Lines at Halloween Horror Nights
Many visitors opt for the Front of the Line Pass, which costs $169 to $219 per person depending on the night. However, this pass only allows one-time front-of-the-line access per maze—and doesn’t cover parking or dinner. (compare to Knott's Scary Farm)
For a next-level horror experience, consider the R.I.P. Tour, a premium VIP package that offers unlimited front-of-the-line access and exclusive perks.
What’s Included in the R.I.P. Tour?
💀 Cost: $269 - $319 per person (varies by night)
🔥 R.I.P. Tour Perks:
🎟️ Universal Studios Hollywood Admission ($169 - $219 value)
🚗 Front Gate Valet Parking ($50 value)
🍽️ Dinner & Two Drinks (21+) ($50 value)
🎭 Unlimited Front-of-the-Line Access to all mazes and rides
👻 Guided Walking Tour of Halloween Horror Nights
🎟️ Reserved VIP Seating at Jabbawockeez Show
Is the R.I.P. Tour Worth It?
If you calculate the costs—Admission, Front of the Line Pass, Parking (Frankenstein Lot Rate), and Dinner—you’ll find that the R.I.P. Tour offers unbeatable value, with exclusive VIP perks included at no extra cost.
For a family of four, this experience costs $1,076 - $1,276, which isn’t within everyone’s budget. However, if you’re a die-hard horror fan who wants to experience every haunted maze and attraction with zero wait times, this VIP horror night is worth every penny.
🎟️ Book Your R.I.P. Tour Now!
Halloween Horror Nights sells out fast, and R.I.P. Tour slots are limited. If you want to experience Hollywood’s scariest event without the long lines, secure your R.I.P. Tour tickets today!
🔥 Don’t miss out—prepare for the horror of a lifetime!
Height requirements of at least 42" to experience mazes.
Celebrating its 15th Anniversary in 2017 it is one of the top haunted attractions in the nation, this terrifying experience has been making people scream since 2003.
HAUNTED HOUSES
Lights Out
Zombie City
Chainsaw Massacre
Hex
Happy Hellidays
Killer Clowns in 4D
SCARE ZONES
Infectious Point
Marionette Madness
New World Disorder
Clown Havoc
4D THEATER
Horror fans will experience another dimension of terror in Friday the 13th™ 4-D
This past weekend, my daughters and I experienced both Knott’s Scary Farm and Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, and I want to share my first-hand comparison of these two top Southern California Halloween attractions.
From ticket prices and haunted houses to scare zones and overall experience, here’s everything you need to know before choosing the best Halloween event for you and your family!
🎟️ Price Comparison – Which Offers the Best Value?
💰 Total Cost Per Person:$229 (After 2 PM Day/Night Combo Front-of-Line Pass)
❌ Cons:
Front-of-line access doesn’t start until 7 PM, meaning you wait in lines from 2 PM to 7 PM.
Does NOT include parking – Costs $25-$50 (we paid $35 for preferred parking).
No food included – You’ll need to eat before arriving or pay high park prices.
Front-of-line pass is one-time use per attraction – No re-entry for favorites.
Total for 3 people:$779 (excluding food costs).
Upgrade to the R.I.P. Tour: Another $100 per person.
🎢 Knott’s Scary Farm – Cost & Benefits
💰 Total Cost Per Person:$153.99 (All-Inclusive Scary Farm Pass)
✅ Pros:
Unlimited front-of-line access from 6 PM until closing.
Includes FREE parking ($18 value).
Includes FREE Boo-fet dinner ($28.99 value) with monsters for entertainment.
Unlimited re-entry to haunted houses and rides.
Total for 3 people:$461.97 (including parking, food, and admission).
🔥 Verdict:Knott’s Scary Farm offers more value for less money. The included dinner, free parking, and unlimited front-of-line access make it a far better deal compared to Halloween Horror Nights.
👀 Haunted Houses & Attractions – Which Delivers More Scares?
Dark Ride – 5/5 ⭐ (Creepy abandoned amusement park theme).
Paranormal Inc. – 5/5 ⭐ (Great intro sequence).
Pumpkin Eater – 5/5 ⭐ (Surprise scare element that stops people in their tracks).
Shadow Lands – 5/5 ⭐ (Hard to find entrance, but solid maze).
Special Ops: Infected – 5/5 ⭐ (Interactive laser tag against zombies!)
The Red Barn – 4/5 ⭐
The Tooth Fairy – 4/5 ⭐ (Dark and disturbing theme).
Trick or Treat: Lights Out – 5/5 ⭐ (Interactive flashlight maze that dies out).
Voodoo – 5/5 ⭐ (Only maze that made me physically jump!).
🎡 Rides Open:10 total (with priority front-of-line access).
🔥 Verdict:Knott’s Scary Farm wins again. The mazes were more immersive, scarier, and had more hidden passageways for scare actors to interact with guests.
🎭 Overall Experience & Final Verdict
Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights
🎥 Movie-Themed Mazes – Great for fans of horror films, but execution felt rushed. 💰 Overpriced – Too expensive for what you get. 🚶♂️ Long Waits Even with Front-of-Line Pass – No re-entry to haunted houses.
⭐ Final Rating:3/5 ⭐
Knott’s Scary Farm
🎃 More Attractions – More haunted houses, scare zones, and rides. 💵 Better Value – Lower cost, free food, and unlimited front-of-line access. 😱 Scarier Experience – More effort in costumes, themes, and scare tactics.
⭐ Final Rating:5/5 ⭐
🧐 Knott’s Scary Farm vs. Halloween Horror Nights – Which Should You Choose?
👉 Choose Halloween Horror Nights if: ✔️ You’re a die-hard horror movie fan. ✔️ You want to see movie-accurate sets and characters. ✔️ You’re okay with paying more for a shorter experience.
👉 Choose Knott’s Scary Farm if: ✔️ You want more haunted houses & better scare zones. ✔️ You want unlimited front-of-line access to houses and rides. ✔️ You want a full Halloween experience for a lower price.
🔥 Winner: Knott’s Scary Farm! 🔥
For less money, more attractions, better scares, and unlimited front-of-line access, Knott’s Scary Farm outshines Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights.
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2017
If you’re a horror fan looking for the ultimate Halloween experience, Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2017 is the must-visit haunted event in California. With movie-quality haunted houses, terrifying mazes, scare zones, and the infamous Terror Tram, it’s a spine-chilling adventure you don’t want to miss.
This Halloween Horror Nights survival guide covers ticket prices, crowd tips, must-see mazes, showtimes, and insider hacks to help you maximize your experience and avoid long wait times.
One of the most terrifying parts of Universal's Halloween Horror Nights
is the fear of not getting to experience all of the mazes due to long
lines. So here are some tips.
🗓️ Halloween Horror Nights 2017 – Dates & Best Times to Visit
📍 Location: Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 🎟️ Event Dates: Select nights from September 15 – November 4, 2017 ⏳ Event Hours:7:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Arrive by 5:00 PM for early entry)
📅 Least Crowded Days to Visit:
✅ Best days to go: Sundays & Thursdays (lowest crowds & cheaper tickets). ✅ Best month to go:September & early November (discounted tickets & fewer visitors).
🚫 Peak Nights to Avoid:
❌ Most crowded nights: October 7, 14, 21, 27, 28, 29, 31 ❌ Saturdays & Fridays – Expect maximum crowds & highest ticket prices.
Halloween Horror Nights requires a separate ticket from regular park admission.
👻 General Admission Tickets
💰 Price Range:$65 – $95 🕰️ Includes: Admission to all haunted houses, scare zones & rides.
🎟️ Front of Line Pass (Express Pass)
💰 Price Range:$169 – $219 ✅ Skip the line ONCE per maze/ride – Highly recommended for crowded nights. ⚠️ Limited availability – Sell out FAST! Buy in advance.
🎫 Day/Night Combo Ticket
💰 Price Range:$95 – $139 (General Admission) | $199 – $259 (Front of Line) 🌞 Enter Universal Studios at 2:00 PM, explore daytime attractions, then stay for Halloween Horror Nights. 🚨 Must-see before 5 PM: Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (CLOSED at night).
Universal Studios is famous for movie-themed haunted houses that bring iconic horror films to life.
👹 2017 Haunted Maze Lineup:
🎥 The Shining – Experience Jack Torrance’s madness in the Overlook Hotel. ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) 🔪 SAW: The Games of Jigsaw – Face twisted traps straight from the SAW movies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 – Best maze!) 👻 Insidious: Beyond the Further – A psychological horror experience. ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) 🧛 American Horror Story: Roanoke – Inspired by the AHS Roanoke season. ⭐⭐⭐☆ (3/5) ⚔️ Titans of Terror – Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, Leatherface & Chucky all in one maze! ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) 🧟 The Walking Dead – Year-round attraction, do this last. ⭐⭐⭐☆ (3/5) 🧙 Ash Vs. Evil Dead – A mix of comedy & horror. ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5 – Least scary maze) 🧛 The Horrors of Blumhouse – Features The Purge, Sinister & Happy Death Day. ⭐⭐⭐☆ (3/5)
📢 Pro Tip: Start at the Lower Lot first—mazes fill up fast.
😈 Scare Zones – Where You Can’t Escape the Fear
Universal Studios Hollywood has three terrifying scare zones.
🔥 Urban Inferno – Hellfire & demonic creatures. 🎃 Hell-O-Ween – A twisted Halloween-themed nightmare. ☣️ Toxic Tunnel – Radioactive mutants in an underground tunnel.
🚨 Warning: There’s no safe zone at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights—monsters can chase you anywhere!
🚌 Terror Tram – Titans of Terror Take Over the Backlot!
🔪 Hosted by Chucky, featuring Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees & Leatherface. ⏳ Experience time: ~1 hour (not recommended as first attraction). 🚨 Last ride times:11:15 PM (Sun-Thurs) | 11:45 PM (Fri, Sat, Halloween Night).
📢 Pro Tip: Visit the Terror Tram later in the night when wait times drop.
🎤 Halloween Horror Nights Show – Jabbawockeez
🔥 Jabbawockeez Dance Show – High-energy dance, music, and visual effects. ❌ Skip this show if you’re short on time—focus on the mazes first!
🎡 Open Rides During Halloween Horror Nights
✅ OPEN RIDES:
Jurassic Park: In the Dark
Transformers 3D
Revenge of the Mummy
The Simpsons Ride
🚨 CLOSED RIDES: Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Mayhem, Studio Tour.
📢 Pro Tip:Do NOT waste time on rides until you’ve finished the haunted houses!
🚗 Parking at Universal Studios During Halloween Horror Nights
💰 Parking Costs:
General Parking: $25 before 6 PM, $10 after.
Preferred Parking: $35
Front Gate Parking: $50
🚶 Walking Distance From Parking Lots:
Curious George & E.T. Garages – 15-20 min walk (General Parking).
Jurassic Park & Woody Woodpecker – 8-10 min walk (Preferred Parking).
Frankenstein Garage – 5 min walk (Front Gate Parking).
📢 Pro Tip:Arrive early to park closer & avoid long walks late at night!
📌 Final Halloween Horror Nights Survival Tips
✔️ Arrive by 5 PM for early entry. ✔️ Start with Lower Lot Mazes before moving to Upper Lot. ✔️ Buy Front of Line Pass if visiting on a busy night. ✔️ Skip rides until after haunted houses. ✔️ Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking a LOT. ✔️ Stay hydrated & eat before you arrive (no outside food allowed).
🔥 Don’t Miss Universal Studios Hollywood’s Biggest Halloween Event!
Halloween Horror Nights 2017 is one of the best Halloween events in California! Whether you're a horror movie fan, thrill-seeker, or just love a good scare, Universal Studios delivers an unforgettable Halloween experience.
👻 What’s your favorite haunted house at Halloween Horror Nights? Let us know in the comments below!
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2017 just released the last 2 Haunted Maze themes! All 4 Chapters of Insidious are coming to Halloween Horror Nights as well as the Horrors of Blumhouse which is a combination of 3 films: The Purge, Sinister, and the soon to be released Happy Death Day.
Insidious: Beyond the Further
This Haunted House is based on all 4 films in the Insidious franchise, including the upcoming "Insidious: The Last Key". I have personally never seen the movies. So for those of you in the same boat, here is a short synopsis of the movies:
Chapter 1: A family is in search of help for their son (Dalton) who fell into a coma after a mysterious incident in the attic, there is much more to this endless sleep than meets the eye.
Chapter 2: The haunted Lambert family seeks to uncover the mysterious childhood secret that left them dangerously connected to the spirit world.
Chapter 3: A prequel set before the haunting of the Lambert family that reveals how gifted psychic Elise Rainier reluctantly agrees to use her ability to contact the dead to help a teenage girl in danger from a supernatural entity.
This maze takes you deep inside the past of Dr. Elise Rainer, a brilliant parapsychologist from the 3rd movie. The story of this maze includes some story from her childhood when her paranormal abilities first emerged and takes you through her mother's untimely death by a demonic entity.
Find yourself troubled by the same evil supernatural spirits Elise spent a lifetime with. Go on an ominous journey back in time to experience the depraved and intimidating beings that have tormented Dr. Rainer since the 1950s.
The last maze to be announced for Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2017 is...
The Horrors of Blumhouse
Get ready for three of Blumhouse Productions' films in one twisted and bone chilling experience. Be face-to-face with the some of the iconic scenes from the blockbuster movie 'The Purge' franchise as well as Sinister film series and the soon to be released Happy Death Day (Release date: October 13, 2017).
Attempt to survive Halloween Horror Nights while you face The Purge in a depraved world where all crime is declared legal in the government's annually sanctioned 12-hour cleansing of society. Join in on a sneak peek of what is described as a living trailer for Happy Death Day where you will encounter the déjà vu scenario and be forced to relive the last day of your lives over and over again while trying to escape a mysterious masked killer. Then encounter an ancient pagan deity, Sinister who is determined to trap you for eternity in a sordid shadow world of the dead.
Universal Studios Hollywood 2016 Halloween Horror Nights - Krampus
You better watch out, You better not cry, You better not pout, I'm telling you why: Krampus is coming to town!
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights collaborated closely with 'Legendary Pictures' and filmmaker Michael Dougherty to bring you a terrifying Krampus encounter. This Halloween Horror Nights Maze is inspired by the 2015 film and brings a Dark Christmas themed scare.
Krampus (Released December 2015) was rated PG-13, ran 1 hour and 38 minutes and was a mix of Comedy, Fantasy and Horror. The plot revolves around a young boy's dysfunctional family over the Christmas holiday. Young Max (Emjay Anthony) becomes disillusioned and his lack of festive holiday spirit unleashes the wrath of Krampus. Christmas holiday icons take on a monstrous life and lay siege to the fractured family's home, forcing them to fight for each other if they hope to survive.
Most everyone knows the story of Santa Claus and how he brings toys to good little children on Christmas Eve. What is lesser known is what happens to the naughty children who don't make Santa's list. Who visits them on Christmas Eve? What "gifts" are brought to them?
The Krampus Halloween Horror Nights Maze at Universal Studios Hollywood takes an Old World Christmas legend based on the 2015 hit film and shows you what happens when you make the naughty list. Krampus and his nasty little helpers have come to terrorize those who lost the Christmas spirit.
It will be a lesson you will never forget, if you can survive it.
Review
Like the 2015 Dark Christmas Halloween Horror Night Scare Zone, Krampus adds a fun and interesting twist to the normally jolly holiday.
As you approach the Krampus haunted house/maze, you find yourself entering the Engel family home decorated with Christmas lights, icicles, and the foreboding effigy of Krampus standing on the rooftop. A frozen mailman walks back and forth in front of the house giving you a photo op before you enter.
The maze takes place inside a version of the Engel house and yard, with smells of pumpkin spice and pine throughout the maze adding to the effect. Fog is a common element in many of Krampus’ scenes, add that to the dark nature of some scenes and you have practically zero visibility, a frightrning effect as you anticipate what will happen next. The foreboding atmosphere can, at times, be even scarier than seeing the monster jump out.
This honestly was our favorite haunted house and we went twice. The maze does well in replicating scenes from the movie and you won't always find a scare, but the detail is wonderful. So many of Krampus’ minions are present, including the evil gingerbread horde, as well as the man eating jack-in-the-box with a have eaten woman reaching for your help.
Like The Exorcist Maze, there is heavy use of animatronics, puppets and props throughout Krampus, transforming the well know Christmas season into a twisted and corrupt versions. A definite highlight is the attic scene with the Christmas tree angel. Along with props, live actors also appear throughout the experience, though sometimes predictable, not always.
The Walking Dead Attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood 🧟♂️🎢
Imagine waking up in a post-apocalyptic world where walkers, biters, and zombies roam free, just like in AMC’s hit series, The Walking Dead. Now, you don’t have to just imagine it—you can experience the terror firsthand at Universal Studios Hollywood’s The Walking Dead Attraction!
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to fight for survival alongside Rick Grimes, Daryl Dixon, and the other survivors, this year-round haunted house is your chance to step into the action.
Here’s everything you need to know about Universal Studios Hollywood’s The Walking Dead Attraction, including location details, special effects, hidden Easter eggs, and survival tips to make your experience unforgettable.
Universal Studios Hollywood - The Walking Dead Attraction
🔎 Fun Facts & Easter Eggs from The Walking Dead TV Show
Universal Studios worked closely with AMC’s The Walking Dead creative team to make the attraction as authentic as possible. Here are some cool hidden details inside the attraction:
✅ 18 Hidden Artifacts from the TV Show – Look for props and set pieces from The Walking Dead, such as Daryl’s crossbow, Hershel’s severed head, and Michonne’s pet walker chains. ✅ The Walkers are Played by Real Actors – Unlike most theme park haunted houses, this attraction has a mix of real actors and animatronic walkers. ✅ Universal’s Scare Experts Were Trained by The Walking Dead Team – The zombie actors were personally trained by the show's stunt coordinators to make them as terrifyingly realistic as possible. ✅ Custom-Built Attraction – Unlike some attractions that repurpose existing buildings, this was built from the ground up specifically for The Walking Dead experience.
📌 Final Thoughts – Is The Walking Dead Attraction Worth It?
If you're a fan of horror, zombies, or The Walking Dead, this permanent haunted attraction is a must-visit at Universal Studios Hollywood. With Hollywood-quality sets, realistic walkers, and Easter eggs from the show, it’s an experience that truly brings AMC’s post-apocalyptic world to life.
📢 Have you survived The Walking Dead attraction? Share your experience in the comments below! 🧟♂️🔥
🎢 What was The Walking Dead Attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood?
📍 Location: Upper Lot, Near the Park Entrance 🗓️ Opening Date: July 4, 2016 🔥 Type: Year-Round Haunted House Attraction
This was fully immersive, live-action horror experience transports guests straight into the world of The Walking Dead. Unlike Universal’s annual Halloween Horror Nights mazes, this permanent attraction was open year-round and features real scare actors, animatronic walkers, and cinematic-quality sets from the TV show.
📢 The Closing of The Walking Dead Attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood 🧟♂️🔚
After thrilling fans for over six years, The Walking Dead Attraction at Universal Studios Hollywoodofficially closed on March 4, 2020. The year-round haunted house, which brought iconic moments from AMC’s hit TV series to life, was one of the park’s scariest and most immersive experiences. Featuring live scare actors, animatronic walkers, and authentic set designs from Greg Nicotero and the Walking Dead creative team, the attraction had become a fan-favorite for horror lovers. However, as Universal Studios evolves with new attractions, The Walking Dead walkthrough was permanently shut down to make room for future projects. While its closure disappointed many zombie apocalypse enthusiasts, guests can still experience horror at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, where The Walking Dead occasionally returns as a seasonal maze.
Wet n’ Wild (now Six Flags Hurricane Harbor) is the largest waterpark in Arizona and my kids and I have been a season pass holders since 2012. I have become increasingly more and more disappointed as the years go by.
📍 Location: 4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ 85310 🎟️ Admission: Pricey—opt for a season pass for the best value
The Biggest Disappointments & Tips to Improve Your Visit
🚫 Crazy Cactus Roaring River = Not So Roaring
After the big remodel hype, this lazy river remains just that—lazy. No rapids, no real excitement, making it a letdown for anyone expecting a real tubing adventure.
💰 Expensive Food & Parking – Bring Your Own
Food is overpriced, so I recommend bringing your own food in an ice chest and eating in your car. We usually get a hand stamp and drive to McDonald's (just a mile away) for a much cheaper meal.
Parking is $8 unless you have a Gold Season Pass (then it’s free).
👟 Scorching Hot & Slippery Ground – Wear Water Shoes
The cement is dangerously hot and not slip-resistant. Flip-flops are dangerous, so bring slip-on water shoes with traction for safety.
⏳ Long Ride Lines & Frequent Shutdowns
Wait times average 45 minutes, but rides frequently shut down due to conveyor belt failures or guest injuries.
Twice in one day, I was near the top of a slide after a long wait, only to have the ride suddenly close.
🔒 Locker Fees Are Outrageous
A small locker costs $8—which is steep just to store a wallet, purse, or phone.
💸 Total Cost Adds Up Quickly
Expect to spend $75-$100 per person after factoring in single-day admission, food, drinks, parking, tube rentals, and locker fees.
What’s Good About Hurricane Harbor Phoenix?
✅ Large Variety of Rides – Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a "scaredy cat", there are plenty of water attractions for all ages. ✅ Dive-In Movies – Floating in the wave pool while watching a family-friendly movie ($6 for a tube) is a great way to end the day. ✅ Plenty of Shade & Misting Systems – The park does have shaded areas and misters, though they aren’t always turned on when needed. ✅ Gold Season Pass Perks – If you're going more than twice, a season pass with free parking helps offset the cost.
