Christmas Lights Tour of Los Angeles – Private Photo Tour with Photographer

Los Angeles is known for its sprawling cityscape, Hollywood glamour, and vibrant neighborhoods, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a wonderland of light and color. The Christmas Lights Tour of Los Angeles with a professional photographer offers a unique opportunity to experience this festive magic through a lens. This private, customizable tour takes you around the city’s most iconic Christmas displays, blending sightseeing with professional photography to produce memorable holiday images.

One of the things we love about this experience is the personalized attention—a private guide ensures you get the best shots at the most Instagram-worthy spots. Plus, the inclusion of 30 professionally edited photographs, along with all original images, makes this tour a fantastic value for those wanting to preserve holiday memories in style. However, since it’s a two-hour walk through downtown, it may feel a bit rushed if you’re a slow photographer or want to explore more leisurely.

This tour is ideal for holiday lovers who want festive photos, travelers interested in LA’s holiday traditions, or anyone wanting a quick yet beautiful glimpse into the city’s Christmas spirit. If you’re hoping for a relaxed, unstructured sightseeing day, this might not be the best fit—it’s focused on capturing specific spots and iconic views efficiently.

Key Points

• Personalized, private experience tailored to your preferences.
• 30 professionally edited photos plus all original shots.
• Flexible itinerary based on your interests.
• Ideal for holiday photography enthusiasts.
• Highlights LA’s most beautiful Christmas displays in downtown.
• Tour duration is approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but immersive experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Pershing Square

The tour kicks off at Paris Baguette near downtown LA, where you meet your guide in the early evening. This cozy setting is perfect for discussing your preferences and getting oriented. From here, you’ll head to Pershing Square, a hub of holiday cheer. During December, Pershing Square is transformed into an ice skating rink with twinkling lights and festive crowds. While admission is free, the real highlight is the lively atmosphere and the chance to snap some vibrant holiday selfies against the backdrop of LA’s skyline.

Reviewers mention that “watching ice skaters under the stars makes for great photos,” and the lively scene is lively enough to capture that quintessential holiday spirit. If you wish, after the tour, you can return here for a more leisurely skate or to enjoy the lights.

Bunker Hill & LA Landmarks

Next, the tour moves past landmarks like the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, famous for hosting the Oscars’ birth, and the Los Angeles Public Library—both decked out with holiday décor. The walk also includes a stop at Maguire Gardens, a green oasis amid the city, which offers excellent photo opportunities with its beautifully landscaped spaces.

While optional, many tour groups choose to visit the U.S. Bank Tower’s OUE Skyspace, an unforgettable way to see downtown LA from nearly 1,000 feet up, especially with city lights twinkling below. This optional experience, at your own expense, is said to reward visitors with “fantastic 360-degree views”—a memorable way to get a different perspective on the city’s holiday sparkle.

Angels Flight & Downtown Lights

The next stop is Angels Flight Railway, the iconic red funicular that’s a favorite for vacation photos. The vintage tram cars, set against the decorated cityscape, create perfect postcard moments. Here, you’ll capture images of the colorful trams Sinai and Olivet, as well as the grand Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Broad Museum illuminated for Christmas.

Reviewers note that “the grandiose lights and art installations make for some truly awe-inspiring photos,” emphasizing how this stop combines LA’s artistic and festive vibe. The proximity to Grand Park means you’ll also get to enjoy the park’s stunning holiday lighting, perfect for those holiday-themed shots.

Downtown City Hall & Optional Endings

The tour’s final stop is LA City Hall, a striking building lit up for the holidays. You’ll snap some last-minute photos and may choose to wrap up at Starbucks nearby for a quick drink. If opting for the 3-hour version, the tour extends to Union Station, where the grand marble and high ceilings make for an epic backdrop. While not included, the station’s impressive architecture makes it well worth the visit.

Optional Calle Olvera & La Posadas

On the longer tour option, you’ll end at Calle Olvera, one of LA’s oldest streets, decorated for Christmas and hosting traditional celebrations like Las Posadas. This lively area offers a vibrant, cultural end to your holiday photo adventure, with festive performances, piñatas, and more.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

Tour Details & Logistics

The tour lasts around 2 hours in its base form, with flexible start times and a customizable itinerary to cater to your interests. Starting at 404 W 8th St, the guide is a local expert—someone who knows the city’s best spots and can share insightful stories about each landmark.

Since this is a private tour, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed experience, dedicated entirely to your group. The guide will point out the most photogenic spots and offer tips on capturing the best shots. The tour is designed to be walkable, with short stops at each location, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

Cost & Value

At $270 per person, this may seem pricey compared to typical sightseeing tours. However, considering it includes 30 professionally edited photos plus all original images, the value becomes clearer. This is especially appealing for those who want high-quality holiday photos without the hassle of editing or dealing with a camera’s auto settings.

Weather & Dress Code

Operates in all weather conditions, so check the forecast and dress warmly if needed. Downtown LA can get chilly after sunset, especially in December, so layers are advisable.

Accessibility & Additional Info

The tour is friendly for most travelers, including service animals, and is near public transportation. You’ll want to specify your preferred start time when booking to ensure smooth planning.

What Past Participants Say

While no reviews are available yet, the available insights highlight that knowledgeable guides truly make a difference. Several mention the stunning views from the optional Skyspace and the vibrant holiday atmosphere at Pershing Square as standout moments. Tourists also appreciate the value of the professionally edited photos, which serve as perfect holiday keepsakes.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private Christmas Lights tour of downtown Los Angeles offers a practical way to enjoy holiday cheer and capture stunning photos in just a couple of hours. Its private nature means personalized attention, and the customizable itinerary allows you to focus on the sights that matter most to you. The inclusion of professional photo editing elevates it beyond a simple sightseeing tour, making it a smart choice for holiday photo buffs or visitors wanting a quick, festive experience.

While it’s on the pricier side, the quality of photos and the expert guidance make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re keen to have beautiful holiday images to cherish. The tour is well-suited for those seeking a combination of sightseeing, culture, and professional photography—all wrapped in a conveniently short timeframe.

If you’re visiting LA during Christmas and want to see the city’s most beautiful holiday spots with an insider’s touch, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to dress warmly, book in advance, and get ready for a festive photo session in the heart of downtown LA.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private walking tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts about two hours, but there is a 3-hour option that includes additional stops like Union Station and Calle Olvera.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all taxes, a friendly local guide, a private itinerary, views of the most beautiful Christmas spots, and 30 professionally edited photos of you. You also get all original photos, which typically number between 100 and 200.

Are there any additional costs?
Optional experiences such as visiting the U.S. Bank Tower’s Skyspace or Union Station are at your own expense, and food or drinks are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences, making it suitable for those wanting to focus on specific sights or interests.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so just dress appropriately for chilly evenings.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at 404 W 8th St in downtown LA, near public transportation options, making it easy to access.

To sum it up, this Christmas Lights Private Photo Tour offers a rare blend of festive sightseeing, culture, and professional photography—all compacted into a two-hour experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to make holiday memories that last a lifetime, whether through stunning photos or simply soaking in downtown LA’s twinkling lights. If capturing the magic of LA at Christmas is on your list, this tour provides a well-rounded, high-value way to do so.