Why You Should Visit Central Florida During the Holidays

So, you’re heading to Central Florida for the Holiday period? Good choice. There simply is nowhere better at this time of year, as the Orlando area puts on a special level of finery and enchantment throughout December and the New Year.

This is when you can truly revel in a proper family break and kick back for some well-earned time off. We still have the sunshine and we certainly have the attractions to make things feel distinctive and indulgent.

Even better, it is an ideal opportunity to book an excursion on one of our specially-chosen tours and add a whole new dimension to your holiday experience.

Because, while the majority head for the theme parks (and end up on the end of extremely long lines), we are able to whisk our guests away on an adventure that has few of the madding crowds you’ll encounter elsewhere.

That means more time to enjoy what you’re actually here for and none of the hassles of battling with the hordes and wondering if you’ll even get in!

In fact, we’ll let you in on a little Central Florida secret – the locals largely avoid the theme parks at this time of year in favor of the more small-scale charms and discoveries that await in places like Crystal River and Clearwater Beach, which tend to get overlooked by visitors in their rush to enjoy Mickey and Co.

And, while it may seem counter-intuitive to consider a beach break or manatee swim in the winter, it is actually a sneaky-good choice for several reasons.

3 Reasons Why You Should Visit Central Florida During The Holidays

1). It’s still Florida, right?! The average daytime temperature remains a gentle 72 degrees, and it’s not uncommon to be well into the 70s. In fact, the first three days of 2020 were all in excess of 79 and we hit a positively tropical 85 on January 12! Just remember to pack some warm clothes for the early mornings, and if you are out and about in the evening.

2). Just about everywhere stays open. This is SUCH a big part of our tourist season, all the main attractions and most restaurants and shops don’t shut down, even on Christmas Day. So there’s no reason to think you’ll miss out on any of the key parts of the Orlando vacation experience, whether it’s January or not. Even better, our tours also run throughout the holidays. 

3). It’s officially Manatee Season. What does that mean? In short, it’s the BEST time of year to see Florida’s iconic “sea cows,” as they positively flock to our inland waterways and rivers, and it makes Crystal River – home of our signature Real Florida Adventure Tour – the manatee Capital of the World for the next few months.

As if all that Central Florida splendor isn’t enough, there are a few other seasonal specialties that really help to make this period go with a swing.