We recently had the chance to head back to OWA, to see everything that they have going on in terms of fall activities. They were kind enough to invite us down, and now I want to share with you what all you can expect when you head down. If you’ve been with us for awhile, you might already know about what to expect on a visit. But they have added so much more for the fall season. So, without further ado, I present to you the first seasonal activity.
(Thank you to OWA for hosting our stay. We were provided a hotel stay and tickets so we can share our experience and tips. As always, all opinions are our own.)
The Fall Festival
The first thing to check out is the Fall Festival. It’s actually across the street from the Park, next to McDonalds. And it’s free to get in, so why wouldn’t you? Once you are there, there are some activities that you have to pay to do, and they sell pumpkins, so bring some cash with you. They have animal rides, a bounce pad, a corn maze, all of which cost money to do. There is a petting zoo, and some food options, as well. There are also a few free exhibits to see. All in all, it’s a fun little addition to what OWA already offers.
Park after Dark
Inside the Park itself, there are some things to do, as well. None of these cost any extra, beyond what you pay for your park ticket. In fact, you have the option to enter as a non-rider, so you don’t even have to pay that! There are some craft stations set up for the kids with adorable little pumpkin crafts.
Make sure to bring your costumes! There are trick or treat stations set up around the park. Some were a little bit hard to notice, until we knew what to look for. Just look for the small hut/house-shaped buildings with people wearing costumes in them. Several were in the hay maze, so make sure you don’t skip those.
The Mystic Mansion
All right, last time we were there, the Mystic Mansion wasn’t completed, yet, so this was our first chance to experience it. Well, Jacob, Bear, and Bug’s first chance. I definitely wasn’t scared, or anything. It’s just that somebody had to stay with Bean, that’s all. Definitely that was it. Anyway, the big kids actually thought it was kind of scary. Bug didn’t want to finish. Bear did okay, but didn’t want to ride it again. From what Jacob told me, it’s not just a haunted house ride, it’s like a shooting gallery with light guns, as well. He did say there were several jump scares, and things like portraits that would change into skeletons when you hit the target for them. Overall, I think I’m okay with missing out. This ride isn’t just around for Halloween. You can get your scare on any time of the year.
Hotel MitcHELL
This next attraction is not recommended for younger children or scaredy cats like me. Hotel MitcHELL is a haunted hotel located just outside The Park gates. If you are a fan of haunted houses, then this will be right up your alley.
Downtown OWA
And finally, we have the downtown OWA area. It’s free to park and walk around any time, so you don’t want to miss this. They have decorations spread throughout the Downtown area, and after dark, Halloween-themed sounds play from the speakers, as well. This did trouble Bean just a little, but it was nothing he couldn’t handle. There are people in costume, there are pumpkins, and skeletons, and all sorts of Halloweeny decorations out. As well as a giant pumpkin that lights up, and there was even some sort of show going on, on Friday night. Unfortunately, we had to eat then, and if you want to see something scary, just try prying Jacob away from food when he’s hungry. (He would probably tell you the same thing about me.)
Is it Worth It?
The smiles and giggles during our visit tell me yes. I would put OWA on the top of my must-visit list for fall/Halloween activities. And that’s saying a lot, I love my pumpkin fun.
So there you have it, there is plenty to appeal from the youngest to the oldest Halloween fans here. You should definitely spend your fall at OWA. But it’s only there for a limited time, so make sure you head out soon!
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