No Sweaters Required: Your Guide to Fall in Orlando
What You’ll Find In This Guide:
- Family fun options that kids of all ages (and their parents!) will love
- Spooky hauntings for thrill-seekers
- Iconic autumn attractions at some of the world’s most exciting theme parks
- Delicious food and drink to fuel your Orlando adventures
- Sporty events that will get you out of your seat and on your feet
- Frequently asked questions about planning the perfect Orlando fall getaway: what to expect, what to pack, and how to prepare for your trip
- Where to stay in Orlando this fall
For Theme-Park Thrills
When it comes to all things spooky and scary, it doesn’t get much more iconic than Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida. This year’s Halloween Horror Nights runs on select nights through November 1 and features 10 haunted houses, scare zones, and live entertainment.
Another frighteningly good option: SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream. Dubbed Orlando’s most terrifying night, it runs through October 31. This year’s Howl-O-Scream includes five haunted houses, six scare zones including four all-new experiences, four thrilling rides, and much more. The event is designed for mature audiences and contains intense adult themes, so only enter if you dare!
For a big theme park experience with all your favorite characters — but a little less scary — Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party fits the bill perfectly. Designed just for families (but perfect for everyone looking for some wholesome, Disney-themed Halloween fun), Mickey’s celebration runs through October 31 and includes costumed characters, trick-or-treating, and spectacular nighttime fireworks.
For Family Fun
Mark your calendar for the Fall Fiesta in the Park, happening at Lake Eola November 7-8. This year marks the 55th anniversary of this beloved annual festival that brings together hundreds of artists, crafters, and food booths, plus family-friendly live entertainment and everyone’s favorite: the swan boats. Take a quick stroll through the stalls, or spend the whole day — you’ll be in good company, with an estimated 250,000 festival attendees each year.
For Foodies
Eat your way around the world at the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival. Stroll through six continents and sample small plates and delicious drinks as you listen to live music and soak up the lively global atmosphere of EPCOT’s World Showcase. The festival runs through November 21, and you just might need to make more than one visit in order to taste everything.
For Sports Fans
The Magic are back! The first preseason home game for the Orlando Magic is October 13 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and regular-season games follow soon after, beginning October 21 with a showdown against the Atlanta Hawks. Grab tickets and make it a fun night out in the heart of downtown Orlando.
To see an entirely different type of athlete in action, check out the Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival, happening October 17 at Turkey Lake in Bill Frederick Park. In between regatta heats, don’t miss the Asia Cultural Trend Expo, which showcases live musical performances, interactive exhibits, and exciting displays celebrating the many cultures of Asia.
For Another kind of festival
Want to dance your way into the season? The EDC Orlando 2026 lineup is not to be missed! Featuring top-tier electronic artists like David Guetta, Steve Aoki, Afrojack, Martin Garrix, and many more, the festival runs from 1pm-12 midnight November 6-8 at Tinker Field. Dance to more than 100 artists across five stages spanning house, techno, bass, and trance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Orlando in the Fall
What is Orlando like in the fall?
Fall is a favorite time for many travelers to Orlando — you’ll enjoy a mix of lighter post-summer crowds, major seasonal events, and relief from the intense midsummer heat.
Is it still hot in Orlando during the fall?
Orlando in the fall is hot, but it cools down progressively. September still feels like summer, and then the real shift to autumn temps happens in October, with highs in the low-to-mid 80s and noticeably lower humidity. In November, days are typically warm and dry, with highs around 75-80 and evening lows occasionally dipping into the 50s.
What should I pack for a fall trip to Orlando?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for day, comfortable walking shoes, and ponchos or rain gear, particularly for September. If you’re visiting later in the fall, pack a light sweater or jacket for chilly mornings and nights.
When is the best time to visit for low crowds?
In September after Labor Day, school is back in session and crowds tend to thin out. Late October weekdays and early November, before the Thanksgiving holiday sets in, are also relatively light. On the flip side, long weekends and the entire week of Thanksgiving see heavy spikes in visitation.
Do I need a separate ticket for fall events in the parks?
Yes, for events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Halloween Horror Nights, and Howl-O-Scream, you’ll need a specific event ticket. The exception is EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival – it runs during normal park hours and with regular park tickets.
When should I book my tickets for fall events in the theme parks?
Book your tickets early! Event tickets and express passes often sell out, especially for October weekends. If you want to skip a 90+ minute line for haunted houses, secure an Express Pass well in advance.
Hotel Landy: Your Orlando Home Base
Perfectly positioned in the heart of everything Orlando has to offer, Hotel Landy is your stylish, sunny home-away-from-home for your fall escape. Unwind after a day at the parks with a dip in the pool, or spend the evening indulging your competitive side in the arcade or with some lawn games in the courtyard. Hotel Landy is a Universal Partner Hotel, so guests enjoy special perks like complimentary shuttle service to Universal parks and savings on food and merchandise.
With fantastic offers and great rates from Hotel Landy, your fall getaway to Orlando just got a little more irresistible. Let the fall fun begin (and don’t forget the sunscreen!)