Posted in Austin
December 07, 2016
The Christmas Lights Road Trip Around Austin That’s Nothing Short Of Magical
Most of us have piled into the family car and made the rounds to see local Christmas decor. It’s a beloved holiday tradition, especially in a city as dazzling as Austin. And this year promises to be even brighter.
In this spirit, we’ve crafted a unique Christmas Lights road trip to maximize your light viewing experience. This 7-stop trip includes a mix of everything: enchanting Christmas strolls, tree decor, mesmerizing light shows, and even a local watering hole. At just under two hours, this trip is a must-do this year. Click here for the interactive map, and we’ll see you out there!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate


The Austin Trail of Lights is every bit as magical and enchanting as its name implies. Hosted in Zilker Park, this annual event runs from 6:00 - 9:00 each evening. Be prepared to pay $10 cash for parking, but the event itself is free! It’s the perfect way to stretch your legs and enjoy the cool winter air. Address: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746.

Need a little refreshment? Take a pit stop at Donn’s Depot, a reformed train station that now serves as a piano bar. With festive lights, winter decor, and a decked-out Christmas tree, it’s the perfect place to grab a hot beverage and snack before hitting the road and continuing the tour. Address: 1600 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78703.

No holiday road trip is complete without a massive outdoor Christmas tree sighting, and that’s exactly what the Domain promises to deliver this time of year. This shopping center is bustling with excitement, twinkling lights, and even St. Nick himself. Address: 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Austin, TX 78758.

This suburb of Austin is beloved for its celebration of Christmas each year. The Anna Court neighborhood is a cul-de-sac that totally transforms with hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights, a beautiful display for the whole community.

Project X-mas is a beloved holiday event in North Austin. The neighborhood community of Wells Branch plans this extraordinary light show for all to enjoy. The show runs from 5:30 - 9:30 (extended hours of 11:45 on Christmas Eve). You can even tune into station 102.9 FM for the coordinated soundtrack. Address: 1912 Crystal Shore Drive.


For a taste of Christmas perfectly unique to Austin, you won’t want to miss the 37th Street light display. It’s something like a legend for locals, and never disappoints with its quirky assortment of holiday decorations. The event takes place in Hyde Park.

Our road trip ends with one of the most elegant Christmas sightings in all of Austin: the breathtaking tree at the Driskill. Located in the historic lobby, this tree appears like something from a painting. Address: 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701.
What do you think about this Christmas lights road trip through Austin? Is it something you’d be interested in taking? Be sure to share your thoughts with us!