From haunted houses to pumpkin carving, Halloween traditions bring about a variety of seasonal trends, causing shifts in consumer foot traffic. For example, at this time of year, foot traffic to candy and costume stores increases, along with foot traffic to holiday-related events and celebrations. The festivities are some of the most highly anticipated of the year, making Halloween an important time for businesses that rely on consumer foot traffic and interest, like amusement parks.

Amusement parks have become popular destinations for those seeking thrilling adventures and spooky delights for Halloween. To discover which amusement parks stand out as must-visit Halloween destinations, we examined consumer foot traffic to theme parks across the country to find out the top 10 most popular amusement parks to visit during the Halloween season. From Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights to Disney’s bewitching festivities, these parks have been ranked based on the amount of consumer foot traffic each saw during October 2022.

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights are renowned for their intricate mazes, terrifying scare zones, and immersive, frightening experiences that draw horror enthusiasts from far and wide.

Six Flags Over Texas boasts the iconic Fright Fest, transforming the park into a realm of haunted houses, spooky shows, and spine-tingling thrills that make it a top choice for Halloween escapades in the Lone Star State.

With its iconic and thrilling roller coasters, like the Banshee and The Beast, Kings Island captures the essence of Halloween, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking chills and excitement.

While Disney is famous for its family-friendly image, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party allows visitors to embrace the magic of the season with festive parades, character meet and greets, and an abundance of sweet treats, appealing to all ages.

Famed for having the world’s tallest and fastest drop ride, Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom, Six Flags Great Adventure becomes a Halloween haven with the addition of Fright Fest, showcasing the perfect blend of thrilling rides and eerie attractions.

Legoland’s Brick-or-Treat event offers a unique twist on Halloween with its LEGO-themed festivities, making it an attractive choice for families looking for a kid-friendly seasonal adventure.

In the San Francisco Bay Area, California’s Great America hosts the must-see Tricks and Treats event. From playful spooky adventures in the Land of Tricks to the nostalgia of a cozy fall festival in the Land of Treats, this event offers something for everyone, along with open access to the park’s popular rides.

With haunted houses, nighttime roller coasters, and exotic animal exhibits, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is another thrilling destination for Halloween enthusiasts in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Worlds of Fun’s Halloween Haunt offers an array of attractions, including haunted mazes and spooky live performances, creating a one-of-a-kind Halloween experience in the Midwest.

Coney Island’s nostalgic charm and its annual Halloween Harvest event draw visitors with its unique blend of classic amusement park rides, seasonal food, and quirky Brooklyn spirit during the Halloween season.

After pandemic restrictions forced consumers indoors and put a halt to in-person events, these experiences have regained popularity in 2023 as consumer interest in events grows post-pandemic. In fact, Halloween 2023 is predicted to be a record-breaking year as consumers return to celebrating en masse after years of social distancing. The amusement parks in our top 10 ranking excel in not only drawing large crowds but also in offering distinct and captivating experiences—perfect for attracting visitors during Halloween and beyond.

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