Many Florida towns get dressed up for the holidays, but there's one in particular that becomes truly magical this time of year: St. Augustine. It's truly the best winter town in Florida, making for one of the sweetest and most memorable experiences come Christmastime. Family friendly and fun for all, this is one local event you simply don't want to miss!
No matter how many times you've visited before, if you've never visited St. Augustine during the city's Nights of Lights celebration, then you're missing out.
We love walking the historic streets of our nation's oldest city when it becomes a winter wonderland, covered in millions of white lights. Isn't this one of the best places to visit in winter in Florida? You can almost forget how warm it gets outside!
There are plenty of ways to see the lights, too. A horse-drawn carriage ride is a romantic and intimate way to experience the festival with that special someone.
The lights are twice as lovely reflecting on the water, which can be viewed with a scenic moonlit boat tour. A true winter wonderland town in Florida, there's no end to the magic.
Our favorite fun and family-friendly way to see the lights is a trolley tour. Where else can you get an intimate experience in the heart of wintry, holiday happy Florida? It's St. Augustine, folks. It takes the cake, every year.
Guests receive special glasses that make the lights even more magical, along with cookies and apple cider.
Of course, you can always take a walking tour or just walk through the city at your own pace, checking out the shops and restaurants that stay open late for the festival. Make sure check updated dates and times, since this annual festival experiences a fluctuation in scheduling each year. You don't want to miss out on the best winter town in Florida!
Are you ready to plan your visit to this winter wonderland town in Florida? You can see the lights nightly from late November through January, though you'll want to check the updated schedule for your new annual tradition.
Here are a few of the companies offering Nights of Lights tours:
Carriage rides: Wine and Carriage Tour, 904-325-3911.
Boat tours: Scenic Cruise Nights of Lights Tours, (904) 824-1806.
Trolley tours: Old Town Trolley Holiday Tours, no reservations needed.
These are just a few of the many tour options available in the city, so you're sure to find something fun for the whole family.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!