Experience the magic of St. Augustine’s holiday season with the Private Nights Of Lights Tour. For $225 per group (up to 9 people), you’ll hop into a cozy golf cart guided by a personable host and wind through the city’s historic streets illuminated with thousands of shimmering lights. Lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, this tour offers an intimate way to soak in the sights without the crowds or the hassle of parking.
What really makes this experience shine for us are the unique views from off the beaten path—your guide takes you down smaller streets lined with adorable bed & breakfasts decked out in holiday decorations, and the use of 3-D glasses adds an extra layer of fun. Plus, the holiday music creates a cheerful backdrop, making it feel like a private holiday celebration.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is the timing and traffic—since this is a busy season in St. Augustine, you’ll want to plan to arrive at least 45 minutes early to find a parking spot and avoid last-minute stress. This tour works best for those who love visual displays, enjoy a bit of festive atmosphere, and appreciate a personalized experience instead of large group outings.
If you’re looking for a charming, light-focused adventure that combines visual delight with some local charm, this tour is perfect. Families, couples, or groups wanting an exclusive holiday outing will find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Private and Personalized: Your own group, no sharing with strangers.
- Illuminated Streets & B&Bs: Off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods offer a cozy holiday vibe.
- Unique Viewing Experience: 3-D glasses enhance the lights, making the scenery more engaging.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviewers praise the guides’ friendliness and local insights.
- Good Value for Limited Time: A quick, festive tour that packs a lot of visual impact.
- Plan Ahead for Parking: Arrive early to secure a spot in this busy season.
An Honest Look at the Private Nights Of Lights Tour in St. Augustine
When considering a holiday outing in St. Augustine, the Private Nights Of Lights Tour offers a cozy, intimate way to experience the city’s famous holiday decorations. With a cost of $225 per group (up to 9 people), you’ll get a guided golf cart ride through the Historic District—a highlight during the festive season when the town transforms into a sparkling wonderland.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For this price, your package includes 3-D glasses to view the lights and lively holiday music to set a cheerful mood. What’s not included is parking, so arriving early—preferably 45 minutes to an hour before—is recommended, especially because the area gets very busy during the holidays. Meeting takes place at 143 Cordova St, an important detail to note for those unfamiliar with the town, as some reviews mention parking challenges.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
This tour doesn’t just glide past the well-trodden tourist spots; it ventures off the main route to smaller, picturesque streets where bed & breakfasts showcase twinkling holiday displays. Many reviewers have appreciated this more intimate perspective that reveals neighborhoods often missed in larger tours or daytime excursions.
The tour makes several stops—though, as some reviewers note, it’s a relatively short experience (about 30-40 minutes in some cases), which might leave you wishing for a bit more time. The personal touch and focus on visual splendor seem to outweigh the brief duration for most guests.
Highlights include passing Flagler College and the Lightner Museum, both stunning sites even in the dark, and a chance to see beautifully decorated streets that bring out the true holiday spirit. The 3-D glasses transform the light displays, giving a sense of depth and making the experience more immersive.
What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback
Many guests have raved about the friendly guides—notably, one reviewer called their driver “outstanding,” and others appreciated the knowledgable storytelling that intertwined holiday displays with some local history. Several reviews highlight the beauty of the lights—one called the experience “worth the money,” while another said, “just seeing the lights without driving was fantastic.”
However, not all reviews are glowing. Some felt the duration was too short, or that the tour was more neighborhood decorations than the large, iconic displays people might expect during Nights of Lights. A few also mentioned traffic and parking challenges, which can be typical during this festive season.
The Real Experience: What You Can Expect
Imagine sitting comfortably in a golf cart, wrapped in warm clothing, with holiday tunes filling the air. Your guide navigates the narrow streets, pointing out the best displays, especially at Bed & Breakfasts that light up their facades beautifully in seasonal decorations. The 3-D glasses are a fun touch, making the lights pop in ways you might not notice on foot or from a larger tour.
Throughout, the personalized atmosphere means you can ask questions or just relax and enjoy—no crowded trams, no noisy crowds. For families or small groups, this feels more like a private holiday gathering than a tour.
Is it Worth the Price?
Considering the tour’s short duration, some might wonder about value. But for many, the quality of the guides, the beauty of the sights, and the exclusive, cozy experience justify the cost. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a tailored experience with flexibility and personal attention in a festive setting.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you love seeing holiday lights in a relaxed, intimate environment, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized, festive outing. If you’re after a comprehensive or historically detailed tour, this may not be the best fit—it’s focused more on visuals and atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
The Private Nights Of Lights Tour in St. Augustine offers a charming and personalized way to celebrate the holiday season. It’s perfect for those who want a cozy, guided experience with stunning holiday displays and a touch of fun with 3-D glasses. The friendly guides and the off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods provide a special perspective that larger tours can’t match.
Though the tour is relatively brief and parking can be tricky, the intimate, festive atmosphere makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking authentic holiday magic in a historic setting. Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a beautiful evening, this tour provides a memorable, light-filled experience that captures the spirit of St. Augustine’s holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Some reviews mentioned it could be a bit shorter, about 30-40 minutes, but it generally offers a quick, enjoyable glimpse of the lights.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes 3-D glasses for viewing the lights and holiday music to enhance the experience. No meals or additional extras are included.
Is parking available?
There is no parking included, and since it’s a busy season, arriving 45 minutes early is recommended to find a spot. The meeting point is at 143 Cordova St.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are not refunded.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s good for families, especially since the lights and music create a festive atmosphere. The tour’s private nature allows for a relaxed experience without large crowds.
Are guides knowledgeable about the city?
Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendly demeanor and local insights, though the focus is mainly on the lights and festive atmosphere rather than detailed history.
What’s the best time to book?
It’s recommended to book about 25 days in advance, as this tour is quite popular during the holiday season.
Is this a good way to see the holiday lights?
Absolutely. The off-the-beaten-path approach means you’ll see neighborhoods not always accessible to larger vehicles, making it a more intimate and memorable viewing experience.
Would this tour be suitable for a romantic evening or a family outing?
Yes, it works well for both. The private setting and cozy vehicle make it ideal for couples and families alike.
In all, the Nights Of Lights Private Tour in St. Augustine is a festive, cozy way to enjoy the town’s holiday glow. With friendly guides, beautiful displays, and a personalized touch, it’s a holiday treat worth considering if you want to see St. Augustine’s lights in a relaxed and memorable way.