Jacksonville transforms into a haven for Halloween fans each October, offering haunted houses, ghost tours, immersive experiences, and fall festivals. Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding scares or family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone. One of this year’s standout attractions is Zero Latency JAX, which delivers cutting-edge virtual reality adventures such as Haunted, Outbreak, Space Marine, and Undead Arena. Here are ten must-try Halloween experiences across Jacksonville.
1. Zero Latency JAX – The Ultimate VR Halloween Experience
Location: 8206 Philips Highway, Jacksonville, FL
Website: zerolatencyjax.com
Zero Latency JAX takes horror to a whole new level with its free-roam, multiplayer VR experiences. Players move untethered in a massive arena, completely immersed in lifelike virtual worlds that react to every movement. The technology combines full-body motion tracking, high-resolution visuals, and spatial audio for total sensory immersion.
Featured experiences include:
Haunted: Navigate a dark, shifting mansion where whispers and shadows come alive.
Outbreak: Survive a zombie apocalypse as you battle through waves of the undead.
Undead Arena: Compete in a twisted game-show style combat against zombie hordes.
Space Marine: Fight alien creatures and defend humanity in a sci-fi battlefield.
With intense visuals and heart-racing action, Zero Latency JAX is Jacksonville’s top pick for an unforgettable Halloween adventure.
2. 13th Floor Haunted House Jacksonville
The 13th Floor Haunted House is a Jacksonville favorite, featuring Hollywood-level sets, professional actors, and terrifying storylines that change annually. Visitors can expect multiple themed attractions, jump scares at every turn, and a fully immersive environment. It’s one of Florida’s premier haunted experiences for those seeking maximum fright.
Website: 13thfloorjacksonville.com
3. Fear Factory 501
Fear Factory 501 combines realistic set design, lighting effects, and animatronics to create an intense haunted attraction. Each room tells a part of a chilling story, keeping guests on edge from start to finish. The attention to detail and acting quality make this a can’t-miss haunt for thrill seekers.
Website: fearfactory501.com
4. Haunt Nights at Adventure Landing
Located in Jacksonville Beach, Haunt Nights offers multiple haunted houses and a unique 3D experience with UV and lighting effects. Beyond the scares, Adventure Landing also features mini-golf, go-karts, and an arcade, making it a complete entertainment destination for Halloween night.
Website: hauntnightsjax.com
5. Jacksonville Ghost Tours
Jacksonville Ghost Tours offer a glimpse into the city’s haunted history. Led by local guides, guests explore historic landmarks while learning about ghost sightings and supernatural legends. Options include:
Jacksonville Ghosts Tour through downtown and riverfront locations.
Ghosts & Booze Pub Crawl, which pairs haunted tales with stops at local bars.
Website: usghostadventures.com
6. Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
The Spooktacular event at the Jacksonville Zoo transforms the grounds into a festive, family-friendly Halloween celebration. Attractions include trick-or-treat stations, themed exhibits, character meet-and-greets, and live entertainment. It’s perfect for families with young children who want seasonal fun without the scares.
Website: jacksonvillezoo.org/spooktacular
7. Sweet Pete’s Creepy Candy Lab
At Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop, guests can join Halloween-themed candy-making classes, create spooky sweets, and enjoy festive decorations. The Creepy Candy Lab is ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking for hands-on fun in downtown Jacksonville.
Website: sweetpetescandy.com
8. Jacksonville Halloween Community Festival
The Jacksonville Halloween Community Festival gathers local artisans, food vendors, and entertainers for a full day of seasonal fun. Visitors can enjoy costume contests, games, music, and family activities in a safe, outdoor environment. It’s one of the city’s most popular community events each October.
Website: jacksonvillebusinessconnections.com
9. Halloween Bar Crawls and Nightlife Events
Jacksonville’s nightlife comes alive with Halloween-themed parties and bar crawls. From Riverside to Jacksonville Beach, venues host costume contests, live DJs, and drink specials throughout October. Check local listings for annual events such as the Official Jacksonville Halloween Bar Crawl and themed rooftop parties.
10. Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals
For those who prefer a relaxed Halloween vibe, Jacksonville offers plenty of pumpkin patches and seasonal farm experiences. Popular options include:
Conner’s A-MAIZE-ing Acres for corn mazes and hayrides
Amazing Grace Family Farms for pumpkin picking and fall photo ops
Mandarin United Methodist Pumpkin Patch for a classic community experience
Planning Tips for Halloween in Jacksonville
Book tickets early for major attractions like 13th Floor and Zero Latency JAX. Check official websites for hours and age recommendations. Pair daytime family events such as pumpkin patches with evening haunted attractions for a complete Halloween itinerary. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, especially for walking tours or active VR sessions.
Conclusion
From historic ghost tours to immersive VR horror, Jacksonville offers endless ways to celebrate Halloween. Whether you’re screaming through the halls of the 13th Floor Haunted House or battling the undead inside Zero Latency JAX’s Haunted experience, the city’s lineup of attractions ensures unforgettable thrills. For technology-driven terror and interactive gameplay, Zero Latency JAX remains Jacksonville’s must-try destination this Halloween season.
