Two festive Florida Travel towns for a family holiday getaway in 2026

If you live in Florida and want a Christmas outing, consider Florida Travel. It offers a touch more charm than driving around your neighborhood to view lights. Put St. Augustine and Mount Dora on your list; they each have a different feel. That’s why I like recommending both.

St. Augustine is the trip I’d choose for a full holiday weekend: historic streets, waterfront views, and lights everywhere you turn. Mount Dora is perfect for a slower downtown holiday trip with shops, food, and lights after dark. I usually book a hotel for convenience, especially during the holidays. Having a place to settle in makes each trip feel like a little Christmas getaway, even when we spend most of our time out exploring.

Here is how I’d plan each one with a child, plus the 2026 dates you’ll want to know before you go.

St. Augustine: Make a weekend out of the lights

The big draw is Nights of Lights. The historic district glows with millions of white lights, and you can enjoy the display just by walking around—there is no ticket required to see the lights. For 2026, the season runs November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Check the official Nights of Lights guide as you plan.

I love the idea of arriving before sunset, exploring the historic streets while everyone still has energy, and then watching downtown change as the lights come on. Walk through the Plaza de la Constitución, see the Christmas tree, and make your way toward the Bridge of Lions for a view of the lights along the water. That is plenty for a memorable evening without booking a tour.

If your family would rather sit for part of the evening, you can look into a holiday trolley, electric cart, or boat tour. Those are optional extras; walking downtown is the simplest way to experience it. I’d choose one tour at most with a young child and leave time for an unhurried dinner or dessert.

My family tips for St. Augustine

• Make the overnight part of the fun. I usually stay in a VRBO here during the holidays. I look for a location that works for our downtown plans and check parking, fees, and the cancellation policy before booking. Staying over takes the pressure off dinner, lights, and a late drive home.
• Wear comfortable shoes. This is a walking evening, especially if you want to see several parts of the historic district.
• Bring a layer. Even in Florida, standing near the water after dark can feel chilly.
• Plan parking before you leave. Free Park & Ride shuttles are expected on select dates, but 2026–27 routes and schedules have not been posted yet.
• Keep the evening flexible. With a child, lights, a treat, and a little exploring can be a complete night. You do not have to fit every attraction into one visit.

Who I’d recommend it for: Families who want a true holiday getaway, couples looking for a festive overnight trip, and anyone who loves historic towns after dark.

Mount Dora: A cozy downtown Christmas outing

Mount Dora feels like the town to visit when you want to slow down. I would plan an afternoon downtown, browse the shops, get something to eat, and stay to see the lights after sunset. It’s a sweet choice for a family holiday outing because the town itself is part of the fun; you don’t need an attraction booked for every hour.

If you can pick your date, Light Up Mount Dora is scheduled for Saturday, November 21, 2026. The Chamber’s 2026 guide says the downtown celebration includes lights at Elizabeth Evans, Sunset, and Donnelly parks, along with entertainment, food vendors, Santa, a drone show, and fireworks. See the Mount Dora Chamber’s 2026 festival guide for updates.

Another great date is the Christmas Walk on Friday, December 4, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. The event listing describes a free downtown evening with lights, shopping, carolers, Santa, and family entertainment. If your child loves a parade, the Chamber also lists the Christmas Parade for the following morning, December 5.

My family tips for Mount Dora

• Go before dark. You’ll have time to explore downtown and eat before the main holiday crowds arrive.
• Consider staying the night. I usually book a VRBO in Mount Dora during the holidays, too. It’s nice to enjoy the lights and dinner without rushing back to the car for a long drive. Check the distance to downtown and parking details when comparing places.
• Choose your event date intentionally. Light Up Mount Dora and Christmas Walk are different events, so check which atmosphere and schedule fit your family.
• Leave space for spontaneous stops. This is the kind of outing where a shop window, a snack, or a photo by the lights can become your favorite part.
• Check the event page right before you go. Entertainment, weather plans, and parking details can change.

Who I’d recommend it for: Families who enjoy small-town holiday charm, shopping, and a festive evening they can make as short or as long as they like.

Which Florida Christmas town should you choose?

Honestly, you don’t have to choose just one. For Florida Travel, I like booking a VRBO for each trip and allowing time to enjoy the town after dark. St. Augustine makes a wonderful full weekend, while Mount Dora is lovely for a slower overnight escape. Both give us a reason to step away from the usual December rush and make a memory together.

Have you been to either town at Christmas? Tell me which one you’d visit first!