October 12, 2004 -- As if four hurricanes weren't scary enough, attractions across Florida are organizing spector-filled events to make this October memorable truly spooktacular.
Meanwhile, resorts and tourist-oriented sites everywhere are getting back to normal. You can read daily updates on the conditions of properties and the recovery effort at www.visitflorida.org or by calling at 800/287-8598.
In Pensacola, the nights of October 22-23 and October 29-30 will see the Historic Haunted House Walking & Carriage Tours, prices ranging from $6 for the walking event to $12 for the carriage version. Phone the Historical Society at 850/433-1559. On the same nights, plus October 31, you can visit the Big Lagoon State Park for a trolley ride, then check out the haunted house for $10 (not recommended for children under 10). Phone 850/492-2785 or visit www.friendsofbiglagoon.org.
The Howl-O-Scream returns to Busch Gardens in Tampa from now through October 3.The ride takes you through five haunted houses and other attractions, with "hundreds of ghouls and goblins." For more information, phone 888/800-5447 or 813/987-5082; go online to www.buschgardens.com.
In Daytona Beach, certified ghost hunters take you on the moonlit streets for $8 (children under six are free). A portion of the proceeds goes to cemetery preservation, restoration and research, appropriately. Phone 386/253-6034 or visit www.hauntsofdaytona.com.
Universal Orlando celebrates Halloween Horror Nights from October 13-17, 21-24, and 28-31 in both theme parks for the first time. For more information, go to www.universalorlando.com.
Key West has an "Original Ghost Tour" walking the streets at night since 1996. It departs from the Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel at 8 and 9 nightly, year round, lasting about 90 minutes and taking in about a half mile of walking. For more information, visit www.hauntedtours.com or phone 305/294-9255.