There’s no better way to see St. Augustine shine than during the 26th annual Nights of Lights festival. From now until February 2, millions of tiny white lights dazzle and brighten America’s Oldest City, covering St. Augustine’s Spanish Colonial architecture, sidewalks, rooftops, hotels, public spaces and the Bridge of Lions, for a 20-block light show. Nights of Lights has been listed among the world’s top 10 holiday light displays by National Geographic.

Take in the Nights of Lights at Plaza de la Constitución in front of the plaza’s Christmas tree. Or head over to the Bridge of Lions to gaze at the lights’ reflections on the water.

Several holiday-themed events take place during Nights of Lights. Here are five extra special ways to enjoy St. Augustine this holiday season:

1.         A trolley tour. Every night at 6 p.m., Old Town Trolley offers its famous Nights of Lights tour. New this year is a Fast Track Pass for priority check-in.

2.         Enjoy the view from the water. A harbour tour from St. Augustine Eco Tours offers a unique way to enjoy Nights of Lights on board six- or 12-passenger boats. Other boat cruises include Florida Water Tours, Scenic Cruise, Red Boat Water Tours, the schooner Freedom and the Black Raven, which also stages a pirate show.

3.         Take off on the train. Ripley’s Big Red Christmas Train Nights of Lights Tours take you to see the lights and includes a VIP pass on the weekends for priority check-in.

4.         A view from above. The famous historical, and supposedly haunted, St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum features a spectacular view of the lights at the top. Be ready to climb 219 steps.

5.         Horse-drawn carriage tours. The Tasting Tours has nightly tours with a horse-drawn carriage and a bottle of boutique wine to share. Private carriage rides and family-oriented Roadster Rides with the Grinch are also available.

Travel Planner

Plan to light up your holiday getaway in St. Augustine at FloridasHistoricCoast.com.