SW Florida Halloween: Fun for kids of all ages
By Mandy Carter
As a local mom, I’ve experienced the excitement of Halloween in Southwest Florida for many years. From spooky events perfect for toddlers to haunted attractions that thrill even the most skeptical teens, our community offers a variety of activities to make the season memorable. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or spine-chilling, here are some of my favorite local Halloween happenings for all ages.
Boo at the Zoo – Naples
Best for Toddlers to Elementary kids
Who doesn’t love a trip to the zoo, especially when it’s filled with costumes, candy, and animals? Naples Zoo’s “Boo at the Zoo” is a family-friendly event where kids can trick-or-treat around the zoo and enjoy fun Halloween activities. When my kids were younger they always looked forward to dressing up as their favorite characters and seeing the animals in a more relaxed setting.
Fall Festival at Lakes Park – Fort Myers
Best for Toddlers to Tweens
Lakes Park’s annual Fall Festival has become a family tradition for us. From the pumpkin patch to hayrides and scarecrow scenes to vote on, it’s a full day of fun. The mini train ride is decked out in Halloween decor, making for a special trip around the park. It’s the perfect mix of fall and spooky without the scare – definitely a hit for kids under 12.
Spooky Nighttime Maze at Farmer Mike’s U-Pick – Bonita Springs
Best for Preteens and Teens
Looking for something a little more thrilling? Farmer Mike’s U-Pick offers a spooky nighttime corn maze that’s sure to keep older kids entertained. My teens love the challenge of navigating through the dark with just a flashlight, while the farm’s festive atmosphere is still welcoming enough for the whole family. If you go during the day, you can enjoy the non-scary maze and pumpkin picking.
Pumpkin Patch at Southern Fresh Farms – Fort Myers
Best for Toddlers to Teens
If you’re in search of a great pumpkin patch and or spooky trail, Southern Fresh Farms in Fort Myers offers both. The younger kids will enjoy all the activities and games of the fall festival while the older ones embrace the scares of the scream park! The farm also has a petting zoo and hayrides, making it a full day of fall family fun.
Trunk or Treat: Golf Cart Style – Babcock Ranch
Best for All ages
We live in Babcock Ranch, and the unique golf cart twist on “trunk or treat” is a fun annual tradition that is open for anyone to attend! Family decorate their golf carts with a fun or spooky theme that matches their family costumes and hundreds of families walk around getting candy and treats!
Halloween in Southwest Florida is one of my favorite times of the year. From picking out costumes to visiting local events, there’s always something for everyone in the family. Whether you have toddlers excited about trick-or-treating or teenagers seeking the next haunted thrill, SWFL has plenty to offer this Halloween season. So, grab those costumes and buckets for candy – and let’s make this Halloween one to remember!
Mandy Michelle Carter … Just a SWFL mom living the dream. She loves to inspire parents to spend authentic time with your kids and to chase your own dreams unapologetically! Found on Instagram @mandymcarter and her family blog at www.Acupful.com.
