Is the Nights of Lights Trolley Tour in St. Augustine worth it? Here are 3 reasons I say no.

I. COST
Cost plays a significant role. Despite it’s glowing reputation, the Nights of Lights Trolley Tour can burn a hole in your pocket. With ticket prices soaring to new heights, it’s important to weigh the value you’ll be getting for the money spent. The cost isn’t justified for the duration and limitations of the tour. Ticket prices vary depending on which day you pick. Starting at $69 up to $89 per row, the closer to Dec. 25th, the more expensive ticket prices will cost you. 1 Row accommodates a maximum of 4 adults.

Since we picked Dec. 26th, we paid $89 dollars plus $3.60 tax which totaled $93.59. The tour was said to last between 30 and 45 minutes but due to heavy traffic, ours lasted about an hour which unfortunately didn’t necessarily make the experience more delightful.

II. Crowded Trolleys
Overcrowding is an issue. As this event becomes increasingly popular, trolleys are jam-packed with people, leaving little room to truly enjoy the experience. Because of the time of the year, the trolleys were packed, and tour times were selling out online. Although the BOARDING PROCESS was organized and fast, you never know if you’ll end up with screaming kids behind your row which was unfortunate for us.

Due to heavy traffic and crowds, we were disappointed that our trolley did not go through the front of Lightner Museum like so many pictures of the trolley showed. This meant we also did not see the front of Flagler College. TIP: keep in mind that if you made dinner reservations for after the tour, plan to have enough time in between to make it to your dinner. I’ve read stories of people having to get off the trolley before the tour finished to make it to their reservation.

III. Sensory Overload
Sensory overload can be a concern for some individuals. The Nights of Lights Trolley Tour creates a visual spectacle that can be overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities. Whether it's the glimmering lights, the loud noises, or the overall bustling atmosphere, one potential sensory challenge is the loud speaker overhead. If you have someone in your group with sensitive hearing, sitting them away from the middle of the row might help, or have ear plugs or headphones ready. Understanding the impact of sensory overload is crucial in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

TIPS:
1. Go very early in the season (early December) or late (after January 5th)
2. Be prepared for weather. The trolley tour is open air so plan for weather changes.

If you prefer a quieter, more intimate holiday experience, you might want to think twice before hopping aboard the trolley. Our analysis of the tour's cost, crowds, and sensory overload aims to provide you with a balanced perspective, allowing you to make an informed decision. While the Nights of Lights Trolley Tour may be a dream come true for some, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone.

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Comment if you have other questions about Nights of Lights or share your thoughts on this event.