Best Places to Stay in Florida During the Christmas Season in 2023

Florida is a wonderful destination to experience the festive cheer during the Christmas season. We try to use every winter break the kids have at school and escape the Maryland chilled weather and replace it with Florida’s sunshine.

Whether you’re seeking a beachside retreat or a cozy cabin in the woods, Florida offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every preference. From the enchanting lights and decorations to the warm weather and holiday events, spending Christmas in Florida promises a unique and memorable experience.

During the holiday season, many cities and towns in Florida come alive with dazzling light displays, festive parades, and cheerful celebrations. From the magical atmosphere of Key West to the charming Victorian village in Fernandina Beach, there are numerous destinations to explore and enjoy the holiday spirit. Whether you prefer a bustling urban setting or a tranquil coastal escape, Florida offers an array of options for a delightful Christmas getaway.

Orlando’s Christmas Magic

Orlando a perfect place to be for a magical Christmas experience. With a plethora of holiday events and attractions, you’ll never run out of things to do during the festive season. Here are some of the best places to stay in Orlando during the Christmas season.

Walt Disney World’s Holiday Events

Walt Disney World Resort is a must-visit destination during the Christmas season. The Magic Kingdom park is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations, holiday-themed shows, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This special event features a parade, fireworks, and live entertainment, all with a Christmas twist. The party is perfect for families with young children, and it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

Universal Orlando Resort Festivities

Universal Orlando Resort is another must-visit destination during the Christmas season. The resort features the Festival of Trees, a holiday event that showcases beautifully decorated trees from around the world. You can also enjoy holiday-themed shows, including the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live retelling of the classic Dr. Seuss tale. For a more thrilling theme park experience, you can also visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holidays.

Other Orlando Attractions

If you’re looking for more holiday-themed attractions in Orlando, there are plenty of options. You can visit the Festival of Lights at the Central Florida Zoo, which features over a million lights and holiday-themed activities for the whole family. You can also visit the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, which features a winter wonderland with ice slides, snow tubing, and a Christmas light show.

Coastal Christmas Charm

If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the holidays, head to the coast of Florida. The salty air, warm weather, and beautiful beaches make for a festive atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Here are a few coastal towns that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Miami’s Tropical Celebrations

Miami is known for its vibrant culture, and the holiday season is no exception. Take a stroll down Lincoln Road Mall to see the festive lights and decorations. You can also check out Santa’s Enchanted Forest, a holiday theme park with rides, games, and plenty of Christmas cheer. And don’t forget to catch the Christmas Parade, which features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself.

Fort Lauderdale’s Nautical Festivities

Fort Lauderdale is a boater’s paradise, and the holiday season is no exception. The Harbor Walk of Lights is a must-see, with more than 100 boats decked out in festive lights. You can also catch the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, which features a procession of boats decorated with holiday lights and decorations. And if you’re looking for a more traditional holiday celebration, head to the Christmas on Las Olas event, which features live music, food vendors, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Key West’s Island Holiday

If you’re looking for a truly unique holiday experience, head to Key West. The island’s laid-back vibe and warm weather make for a festive atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Check out the Lighted Boat Parade, which features boats decked out in holiday lights and decorations. You can also catch the Holiday Historic Inn Tour, which takes you through some of the island’s most beautiful historic inns. And don’t forget to check out the Key West Bight Before Christmas, which features live music, food vendors, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Historical Holiday Celebrations

Here are a few of the best historical holiday celebrations in the state:

St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, is known for its beautiful historic district, and during the Christmas season, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland. The highlight of the season is the “Nights of Lights” celebration, where the city’s historic buildings, streets, and trees are decorated with millions of twinkling lights. You can take a stroll through the historic district, hop on a trolley tour, or even take a boat tour to see the lights from the water.

Pensacola’s Victorian Christmas

Pensacola’s historic downtown is home to many Victorian-style buildings, making it the perfect setting for a Victorian Christmas celebration. During the holiday season, you can take a step back in time and experience the charm of a bygone era. The city hosts a variety of events, including a Victorian Holiday Traditions evening where you can learn about the history of Christmas traditions. You can also take a tour of the historic homes, which are decorated in Victorian style for the holidays.

Christmas, Florida’s Traditional Festivities

Located in central Florida, the town of Christmas lives up to its name during the holiday season. The town hosts a variety of traditional Christmas events, including a parade, a tree lighting ceremony, and a festival featuring local vendors and live music. You can also take a scenic drive through the town to see the many decorated houses and yards.

Luxury Christmas Stays

The Breakers Palm Beach Experience

The Breakers Palm Beach offers an exquisite Christmas experience, with its stunning oceanfront location and lavish accommodations. The resort’s holiday décor and festive activities create a magical atmosphere that will surely enchant you. Indulge in the luxurious amenities and enjoy an unforgettable Christmas stay at this iconic Palm Beach destination.

Ritz-Carlton’s Festive Packages

Ritz-Carlton’s festive packages in Florida are designed to provide guests with an unparalleled luxury experience during the Christmas season. From elegant decorations to special holiday events, the Ritz-Carlton offers a sophisticated and enchanting atmosphere for your Christmas getaway.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

For a blend of luxury and holiday magic, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World is an exceptional choice. The resort’s extravagant decorations and top-notch service ensure a memorable Christmas stay. With its proximity to the enchanting world of Disney, this luxury resort offers a perfect blend of sophistication and festive fun.

Family-Friendly Christmas Festivities

Busch Gardens Christmas Town

Busch Gardens Christmas Town in Tampa is a must-visit during the holiday season. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 10 million lights, holiday shows, and festive food and drink options. Kids will love meeting Rudolph and his friends, and the whole family can enjoy rides like the Christmas Town Express and the Jingle Bell Junction.

Tampa’s Winter Village

Tampa’s Winter Village is another great option for families. Located in downtown Tampa, this outdoor holiday market features an ice skating rink, holiday shops, and plenty of food and drink options. Kids will love the Winter Village Express train ride, and the whole family can enjoy live entertainment and festive decorations.

Sarasota’s Holiday Home Tour

Sarasota’s Holiday Home Tour is a unique way to get into the holiday spirit. This self-guided tour takes you through some of the area’s most beautifully decorated homes, all decked out for the season. You’ll get to see everything from classic Christmas decor to modern and eclectic displays. It’s a great way to get inspired for your own holiday decorating, and it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Seaside Christmas Escapes

Amelia Island’s Festive Season

Amelia Island’s Christmas celebrations are a sight to behold. The waterfront comes alive with twinkling lights and joyful festivities, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. You can immerse yourself in the holiday spirit by exploring the beautiful light displays and participating in the town’s festive activities.

Captiva Island’s Christmas by the Sea

Captiva Island offers a unique Christmas experience by the sea. The picturesque waterfront setting provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and joyful holiday season. You can stroll along the beach, taking in the serene beauty of the coastline adorned with festive decorations, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Siesta Key’s Sandy Celebrations

Siesta Key’s sandy celebrations offer a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience. The beautiful waterfront setting and sandy beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a unique holiday season. You can enjoy the festive atmosphere with beachfront activities and delightful light displays, creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Unique Holiday Events and Attractions

Naples Botanical Gardens Lights

If you’re looking for a beautiful and unique way to celebrate the holiday season, be sure to check out the Naples Botanical Gardens Lights. This event features over a million twinkling lights, festive holiday displays, and live music. You can even take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

Sarasota’s Jungle Gardens

Sarasota’s Jungle Gardens is a great place to take the whole family during the holiday season. You can enjoy a walk through the tropical gardens, see the animals, and even take a ride on the Christmas train. The gardens are decorated with thousands of lights and there are holiday-themed shows and events throughout the season.

Christmas Tree Trails and Markets

Florida is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas tree trails and markets in the country. Whether you’re looking for a traditional tree or something a little more unique, you’re sure to find it at one of these markets. Some of the most popular markets include the Zoo Miami Christmas Tree Trail and the Gingerbread House in Naples.