3 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour

Exploring Houston during the holiday season becomes truly special with the 3 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour. Priced at $110 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded, festive experience that highlights the city’s most impressive holiday displays in just three hours. It departs from Potbelly on Southwest Fwy and includes multiple stops, making it one of the most inclusive holiday light tours in Houston. Best of all, it’s a private activity, ensuring a personalized experience with your group.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see a variety of Houston’s holiday lights without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s suitable for most travelers and includes group discounts. The tour’s stops range from iconic parks to upscale neighborhoods, providing a comprehensive snapshot of Houston’s festive spirit. With free cancellation and mobile tickets, it combines convenience with safety.

Key Points

• Price: $110 per person, booked 6 days in advance on average
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours of holiday light viewing
• Stops: Includes Waterwall Park, The Galleria, Uptown Park, Tanglewood, and Central Market
• Admission: All stops are free, including the Water Wall and The Galleria
• Tour type: Private tour, led by Houston Historical Tours
• Additional perks: Group discounts and mobile tickets for easy access

Houston’s Water Wall as the First Holiday Stop

The tour begins at Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, a Houston landmark that transforms into a holiday oasis. Here, visitors go inside the Water Wall, surrounded by the soothing sounds of water and mist. This spot is especially romantic and photogenic, with the impressive water feature serving as a perfect holiday backdrop. The 15-minute stop is free, giving ample time to soak in the atmosphere and snap photos before moving on.

The Water Wall’s dramatic architecture and misty environment make it a memorable way to kick off the holiday lights experience. It’s an accessible and iconic Houston site that sets the tone for the evening’s festivities.

Exploring The Galleria and Houston’s Tallest Christmas Tree

Next, the tour visits The Galleria, Houston’s premier shopping mall. Here, you’ll find an array of holiday decorations and Christmas ornaments, making it a festive shopping environment. The highlight is the tallest Christmas tree in Houston, situated on the ice skating rink and rising about five stories tall. This stop lasts 25 minutes and is free to visit, allowing plenty of time for photos and holiday browsing.

The Galleria’s holiday display is a major highlight, offering a glimpse into Houston’s commercial celebration of the season. The ice skating rink adds to the festive atmosphere, making this stop particularly lively and cheerful.

Driving Through Uptown Park’s Holiday Lights

After The Galleria, the tour proceeds through Uptown Park, a well-known shopping area. The drive-through lasts about 20 minutes, during which the group observes numerous Christmas and holiday lights illuminating the neighborhood. While there is no walking involved, it offers a quick, scenic overview of Houston’s upscale residential and commercial districts decorated for the season.

This stop provides a relaxed look at Houston’s holiday spirit, with many homes and storefronts adorned with creative displays. It’s a good opportunity to enjoy the city’s festive lighting without crowds or long walks.

Discovering Tanglewood’s Holiday Grandeur

The tour then ventures into Tanglewood, one of Houston’s most expensive neighborhoods established in 1949. Known for its large homes and oak trees, Tanglewood becomes a showcase of impressive holiday decorations. The 30-minute visit allows for a detailed look at the creative displays and festive lighting. Visitors can expect to see many creative decorations among the neighborhood’s luxury homes, making it a highlight for those interested in elaborate holiday displays.

Tanglewood’s elegant setting and holiday illuminations stand out as a testament to Houston’s festive spirit in exclusive neighborhoods. The impressive decorations here make it a memorable part of the tour.

Refresh Break at Central Market

The tour pauses at Central Market for about 20 minutes. This stop offers a chance to grab holiday drinks, snacks, and use the bathroom facilities. It’s a practical inclusion that allows participants to refresh and enjoy some seasonal treats in a relaxed environment.

Central Market’s vibrant atmosphere complements the holiday theme, providing a convenient and pleasant break point before concluding the tour.

Logistics and Meeting Point Details

The tour begins at Potbelly on Southwest Fwy, a central Houston location, and ends back at the same spot. The experience is private, ensuring that only your group participates, which enhances comfort and flexibility. The tour operates with mobile tickets, making check-in smooth, and service animals are allowed.

Most travelers can participate without difficulty, and the tour is designed to be accessible for a wide range of guests. The confirmation is received within 48 hours, confirming availability.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The 3 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour is notable for its multiple stops that showcase Houston’s diversity of holiday displays. It combines iconic landmarks like the Water Wall and The Galleria with upscale neighborhoods and vibrant shopping areas. The fact that all stops are free adds to its value, and the private tour format provides a personalized experience.

While the tour is fast-paced and covers many locations, it’s well-suited for those who want to see a variety of Houston’s holiday lights in a short amount of time. The group discounts make it accessible for families or groups looking for a festive outing.

Final Thoughts on the Houston Holiday Lights Tour

This tour offers a convenient, comprehensive, and budget-friendly way to enjoy Houston’s holiday displays. Its well-chosen stops highlight the city’s festive spirit, from the iconic Water Wall to luxury neighborhoods and major shopping centers. The 3-hour format balances sightseeing with breaks, making it suitable for most groups.

Limitations include the short duration at each stop, which is perfect for quick viewing but not for in-depth exploration. The tour’s private nature ensures intimacy, but it also means availability might need early booking, especially during peak holiday times.

The 3 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour presents a practical and festive way to experience Houston’s holiday cheer, especially for those who want a guided, curated overview of the city’s best displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is accessible for a wide range of ages.

Are there any dietary options available at Central Market?
The tour includes snacks and drinks, but specific dietary options are not detailed. It’s best to bring any special needs or preferences.

How long do stops at each location last?
Stops range from 15 to 30 minutes, allowing enough time for photos and brief visits.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Do I need to print my ticket?
No, mobile tickets are accepted for check-in.

What’s the best time to book?
Since most bookings occur 6 days in advance, early reservation is recommended during busy holiday periods.