2 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Houston’s holiday lights without the hassle of fighting crowds or dragging out a ladder, a 2 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour might just be what you need. Promising a leisurely ride through one of the city’s most opulent neighborhoods, this tour combines comfort, convenience, and a touch of holiday magic. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, we’ve gathered enough details to help you decide if this festive outing suits your style.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see Houston’s impressive River Oaks decorated in full holiday splendor is hard to beat. Second, the ease of a private, guided drive means you can relax and soak in the sights without worrying about navigation or parking. The main snag might be the price—$65 per person isn’t bargain basement, but for what you get, it’s a cozy, curated glimpse into Houston’s luxury holiday displays. This tour is perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, visually spectacular outing, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a quick, beautiful escape into Houston’s holiday spirit.

Key Points

• Luxurious Neighborhoods: The tour passes through River Oaks, Houston’s most upscale area, bigger than Beverly Hills and home to some truly enormous mansions.
• Festive Decorations: Expect to see over-the-top holiday lights, grand houses, and magnificent trees like oaks, crepe myrtles, and magnolias draped in holiday finery.
• Flexible Shopping Options: If you’re interested, the tour offers stops at elite shopping centers or a chance to pick up a Sprinkles cupcake from a 24/7 ATM—a sweet touch for those craving a treat.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starting at a Potbelly Sandwich Shop near a large parking lot, with easy access for dinner, drinks, or bathroom breaks beforehand.
• Exclusive Experience: It’s a private tour, so your group gets a tailored experience without strangers.
• Affordable Luxury: For $65, you’re paying for a 2-hour guided look at some of Houston’s finest holiday displays—definitely more than just a drive-by.

Exploring Houston’s Holiday Lights in Style

This tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy Houston’s holiday displays without the stress of navigating or parking. Starting at a convenient location near River Oaks, the tour kicks off at 6:30 pm, just as the holiday lights are starting to glow. The initial meeting point is a Potbelly Sandwich Shop across from a Starbucks—a smart choice for grabbing a quick dinner or a drink before heading out, and the ample parking lot is reassuring for those concerned about vehicle safety.

Once on the bus, the real highlight begins: a drive through River Oaks, one of the most impressive neighborhoods in the country. With over 12,000 residents and an area larger than Beverly Hills, River Oaks is home to some very big properties. The largest mansion alone exceeds 30,000 square feet, and it’s under construction for an even larger estate in 2025. As you cruise by, you’ll see sweeping lawns, elegant facades, and yards that seem to be dedicated entirely to holiday displays. Expect to see magnificent houses illuminated with Christmas lights—some might be over the top, others charmingly understated, but all impressive.

The tour provides plenty of opportunities to stop and explore if you wish—such as visiting the River Oaks District or Highland Village shopping centers. These stops are optional, but they offer a chance to browse upscale boutiques or pick up a special holiday gift. If you’re craving a sweet treat, you might want to take advantage of the 24/7 ATM cupcake machine at Sprinkles—an experience in itself—and a delightful way to add a festive touch to your night.

What to Expect During the Tour

The itinerary is straightforward. The journey begins with a leisurely drive through the neighborhood where you’ll see dazzling holiday decorations on some of Houston’s most expensive homes. The houses are often adorned with thousands of lights, synchronized displays, and sometimes even themed decorations. The trees—like oaks and crepe myrtles—are often draped in twinkling lights, providing a picturesque backdrop for holiday photos.

While the tour doesn’t include stops at individual houses, the drive-by viewing offers plenty of photo opportunities. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the neighborhood lit up for Christmas; it truly felt like a winter wonderland.” Others appreciated the quiet, relaxed pace, which allowed for taking in the sights without rushing.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making it easy to plan your evening afterward. The private nature of this experience means your group can enjoy the sights without the distraction of strangers, and it’s suitable for all ages, including service animals.

Is It Value for Money?

At $65 per person, this tour is a bit on the higher end for a two-hour ride, but considering the exclusivity and the quality of the neighborhood you’ll see, it offers good value—especially if you’re traveling with family or a small group looking for a festive, stress-free outing. The private aspect ensures a personalized experience, and the convenience of starting at a central location with nearby parking makes it accessible.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This holiday lights tour is ideal for luxury lovers, families wanting a relaxed festive experience, or anyone curious about Houston’s wealthiest neighborhoods decorated for the season. If you enjoy seeing spectacular homes and don’t want to fuss with parking or crowds, this guided drive offers a perfect solution. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a short, charming outing—a nice way to initiate your Houston holiday visit or cap off an evening with some eye-popping sights.

The Sum Up

This 2-hour December Holiday Lights Tour offers a cozy, convenient way to soak up Houston’s holiday spirit. With a guided drive through the stunningly decorated River Oaks, you’ll get an insider’s glimpse into one of Houston’s most luxurious neighborhoods—a visual feast of lights and grand homes that truly captures the festive season’s magic. The option to include shopping stops or sweet treats adds flexibility, making it a versatile choice.

While the price isn’t dirt cheap, you’re paying for a personalized, guided experience with easy planning—perfect for those who value comfort and quality. Whether you’re a local wanting to see the city’s holiday displays in style or a visitor seeking a memorable, family-friendly activity, this tour delivers a taste of Houston’s holiday opulence with a relaxed, enjoyable pace.

It’s a fun, festive way to celebrate the season without the hassle—especially if you’re short on time but long on holiday cheer.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a relaxed viewing experience without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Potbelly Sandwich Shop, located at 3800 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77027, with easy parking available.

Is this a group or private tour?
It is a private tour, so only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.

What is the cost?
The tour costs $65 per person, which includes the guided drive and viewing of holiday lights.

Can I stop at shopping centers?
Yes, you can request stops at River Oaks District or Highland Village to browse or shop.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted, but other pets are not specified.

What if I want a treat?
You might enjoy the Sprinkles cupcake ATM—available nearby and a fun way to add a sweet note to your evening.

Is prior booking required?
Yes, booking is needed, and confirmation is received at the time of reservation.

What is the best time to join?
The tour starts at 6:30 pm, just as the holiday lights are beginning to shine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Whether you’re after a quick glimpse of Houston’s most glamorous holiday displays or a relaxing family outing, this tour offers a festive, easygoing way to celebrate. Just bring your camera, a warm coat, and a sense of holiday wonder—Houston’s lights await!