Tickets for Halloween Horror Nights just dropped, and if you’re someone who loves the Halloween vibes but hates actually being scared, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Whether it’s the haunted houses, the scare zones, or just the idea of walking through fog-filled streets at night, the fear is real. But there are ways to enjoy the night without spiraling into a panic attack.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to surviving Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, and maybe even having fun.
1. Prepare: See the Houses and Experiences Beforehand
Preparing beforehand is one of the best ways to ease your nerves before Horror Nights. Thanks to early attendees and tons of online content, you can watch POV (point-of-view) videos of the haunted houses and scare zones before you even set foot in the park.
These videos let you see exactly what happens inside each house, and the best part is, you can pause or stop anytime if something feels too intense. This way, you can decide what scares and doesn’t, helping you set your expectations realistically.
You might even find that some houses aren’t as terrifying as you imagined. Watching them beforehand can build your confidence and let you enjoy the experience without surprises. Plus, it helps you plan which houses or events you want to try — or skip — so your night is as fun and comfortable as possible.
2. Get to the Houses Early in the Afternoon
If you’re worried about intensity, get in line for the houses as early as possible, ideally before the sun sets. The scare zones and overall vibe become a lot creepier after dark. Hitting a few houses while it’s still light outside can help you build confidence for later.
3. Take It Slow and Enjoy the Food
Don’t rush from house to house if you’re not feeling it. Take breaks, enjoy the ambiance, and eat! Halloween Horror Nights offers tons of special snacks like pizza fries and signature drinks, and even house-themed treats. Sometimes, just sitting down with some food can give you a much-needed breather between scares.
5. Grab a Drink (If You’re 21+): Your Scare Jump Repellent
If you’re of legal drinking age, grabbing a themed cocktail or beer can actually act like a scare jump repellent. Actors in the scare zones are less likely to target or scare you if they see you holding a full drink, or even while you’re sipping it. This helps you avoid sudden scares that might cause you to spill your drink or accidentally bump into others.
Remember, this applies only to the scare zones, drinks aren’t allowed inside the haunted houses. Also, always drink responsibly, especially when moving through crowds or preparing to enter a house. Universal even sells souvenir cups with refills if you plan to return multiple nights.
5. Don’t Make Eye Contact with the Scare Actors
This one’s key: Avoid direct eye contact if you don’t want to be targeted. Scare actors are trained to look for people who are clearly nervous, and if you lock eyes, they see it as an invitation to approach. Instead, stay aware of where they are, walk purposefully, and try to blend in with the crowd.
5. Haunted Houses Are Choreographed, Watch the Guests Ahead of You
There’s a rhythm to how the scares happen in each house. The actors pop out in timed intervals and usually scare the people in front. If you pay attention to how the group ahead of you reacts, you’ll start to predict where the scares happen, making it easier to mentally prepare for what’s coming.
6. Don’t Miss the Nighttime Show, Arrive Early!
Need a break from the scares? The nighttime show is the perfect chance to catch your breath. Packed with high-energy acrobatics, live music, and stunning special effects, plus no scares, it offers a thrilling yet fear-free experience. Be sure to arrive early and aim for the night’s first show, as it tends to fill up quickly. If you miss out, don’t worry, you’ll have a second opportunity to see it. Securing your spot early guarantees a fun and refreshing break from all the horror around you.
7. Avoid the Most Popular Houses
The most talked-about houses tend to be the scariest. They’re usually based on intense IPs or have the most elaborate (and terrifying) set-ups. Don’t start here if you’re trying to ease into the experience. Go for one of the original or less-hyped houses; they can be just as creative but less overwhelming.
8. Use Earplugs to Reduce the Fear Factor
Many of the haunted houses rely on loud, sudden sounds to get those jump scares. If you’re sound-sensitive or get overwhelmed easily, bring earplugs. You’ll still see everything without the extreme volume that makes everything feel 10x scarier. It’s a simple trick that works wonders.
9. Every House Is Different, But the Format Stays the Same
The haunted houses might have different characters and themes, but the flow is generally the same: walk-through sets, jump scares, creepy lighting, and audio effects. Once you’ve done one or two, you’ll start to get used to the structure, which makes the rest much more manageable.
10. Go With Friends (But Don’t Give In to Peer Pressure)
Having a group with you makes a huge difference — friends can boost your confidence, help you laugh through the scary parts, and give you a hand to hold when things get intense. That said, don’t let social pressure ruin your night. If a haunted house or scare zone makes you feel unsafe or anxious, it’s okay to skip it. There are tons of other things to enjoy — including regular rides that stay open and are usually way less crowded during the event.
You Don’t Have to Be Fearless to Have Fun
Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights is a spooky celebration, but it doesn’t have to be terrifying. If you plan your night with intention, listen to your limits, and give yourself room to have fun without the pressure, you’ll walk away with awesome memories (and maybe even a little more bravery than you expected).
