[Haunts] The Black Spot and Motel Hell Dredge Up New Screams for 2016's Howl-O-Scream Tampa

2016 looks to be a bit of an overhaul year for Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa with a total of three all new mazes joining the line up. So far, only two have been unveiled with The Black Spot and Motel Hell, but it's likely only a matter of time until we get the final announcement here all things horror kick off in just a few weeks.

The pirate theme was done at Busch Gardens Williamsburg for the 2014 and 2015 seasons, but this is something new for Tampa. Going to be interesting to see just how different their take on the theme is as they've always been a bit more amped up on than their sister park up north.

So, with all that out of the way, let's get to it. First up, the newest announcement, The Black Spot!



Not much to go on, but it definitely appears that this motley crew has seen better days and now are preying upon those brave (or stupid) enough to wander into their domain. Pirate themes are tough, but it does seem that from the official description that they at least have a good handle on things with this one.

"When Saw Tooth Silas, an infamous pirate, decides that one should no longer exist, he marks them for death. Victims are then sent to The Black Spot, where they meet their horrifying end.

The trick lies within the dimly-lit corners of the mysterious hideaway, holding the secret to escape… or demise."




I love a good pirate tale, and have to admit that I'm pretty excited to see how this turns out for them. I hope that they keep it more intense than Williamsburg's version though, as that one could've used some ramping up in a lot of areas. Only time will tell!

Even better? You can help to name the pirate ship for this one too. The choices are; The Devil's Bride, Neptune's Ghost, and Greedy Demon. To vote, head over to Howl-O-Scream's Facebook Page.

Now then, onto the next bit of business here and Motel Hell.

"Nightmares become reality at this deserted motel once you realize why it’s conveniently vacant. The paranormal presence of its former owners still lurks on the untouched property, mysteriously preventing the brave souls who have attempted to tear it down.

Guests who dare to enter will find themselves face-to-face with their worst nightmares and inescapable fate."


Don't you just hate when abandoned hotels won't let you tear them down? Seems like anyone who wanders into the Motel Shellburn get their own dismantling, and pity those who wander in. Another interesting theme, Motel/Hotel themes can be a lot of fun and I have no doubt they've made this one into one helluva place where you'll be dying but never getting out.

I have to admit though, when I saw the name, I got flashbacks to the Motel Hell movie from 1980 and its glorious insanity. I wonder if any inspiration was drawn from that on this one. Never know, right?

And there ya have it, two of the new attractions coming to this year's Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa. There's still one more maze announcement coming for 2016 and I'll be keeping my eye out for that when it happens, stay tuned!