Friday the 13th only happens once in 2025—and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is making sure it leaves a mark.
For two chilling days—Friday, June 13, and Saturday, June 14, from 1 PM to 9 PM—the park is summoning brave guests to a hauntingly unique scare event themed around the mysterious and sinister Stranglewood Estate.
Whether you’re a fan of haunted houses, creepy estate sales, or just looking for something unusual to do in the Florida heat, this limited-time event promises eerie vibes, atmospheric storytelling, and goosebumps in all the right places.
Welcome to the Stranglewood Estate
This isn’t your typical walk-through scare zone. Busch Gardens invites guests to step into a twisted real estate pitch with an unsettling twist: the estate remembers you.
“The nightmare you’ve tried to forget is opening its doors…join us for an Open House and Estate Sale at the infamous Stranglewood Estate.”
Set within the park and eerily close to attractions like Cobra’s Curse and the Serengeti Overlook Restaurant, the experience blends immersive horror storytelling with unexpected frights lurking behind every doorframe.
From the moment you step into the creaky halls of Stranglewood, the air feels heavy. Shadows seem to move on their own. There are tales of a second-floor balcony haunted by tragedy…and a basement designed to keep secrets buried.
What to Expect:
- Immersive Theming: Stranglewood is more than a haunted house—it’s a full estate tour, filled with disturbing details and hidden stories.
- Pop-Up Scares: Park-goers should expect pop-up characters and performers, especially during the twilight hours.
- Estate Sale with a Dark Twist: Rumor has it, some of the possessions within the home might be cursed… or maybe they’re just waiting for a new owner.
- Photo Ops: Capture your scream-worthy moments in eerie set pieces designed for the perfect “haunted housewarming” selfie.
- Nearby Frights: Keep your guard up—activity may not be limited to inside the estate.
Why It’s Special:
In the world of horror events, Friday the 13th holds a special place. Busch Gardens is making the most of this rare 2025 occurrence by hosting this one-weekend-only experience, blending the ghostly charm of a horror movie set with the adrenaline of a real scare.
With no HOA fees, no community rules, and only a few supernatural tenants to deal with, Stranglewood Estate could be your new forever home… or your final resting place.
Plan Your Visit
🗓 Dates: Friday, June 13 & Saturday, June 14
🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
🎟 Admission: Included with regular park admission or membership
Final Word
This is not your average summer weekend in Tampa. Whether you’re a longtime Howl-O-Scream fan or just looking to dip your toe into the horror pool, Stranglewood Estate promises an unnerving, spine-tingling good time.
But don’t delay—the doors close after June 14. And once you leave…you might not be the same.
Will you dare enter?
