Holiday Movie Towns: Florida Edition

Holiday movie towns always feel magical. Realtor.com recently highlighted charming destinations that look straight out of a festive film, and it inspired this Florida spin. This is our take on that editorial, with a warm-weather twist. Here, we explore Florida holiday movie towns that shine during the season, from historic streets to sparkling waterfronts and even the most magical place on earth.

St. Augustine – A Historic Holiday Movie Town

St. Augustine transforms during the famous Nights of Lights. White lights drape the historic buildings, bridges, and waterfront. Cobblestone streets glow and feel like they belong in a classic holiday film. Visitors stroll under twinkling arches, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy the festive cheer that fills the entire city.

Why it feels like a movie town:

• Historic Spanish architecture

• Carriage rides through lit streets

• Waterfront views wrapped in lights

• Warm shops and cafés

St. Augustine glows with elegant holiday lights throughout its historic district during Nights of Lights.

Mount Dora – A Hallmark-Style Small-Town Christmas

Mount Dora is one of Florida’s most festive small towns. Downtown lights up with thousands of bright displays, storefront decorations, and a cheerful community tree. It has the kind of cozy holiday energy that feels written for a Hallmark movie moment.

Why it’s perfect for this list:

• A vibrant, walkable Main Street

• Impressive Christmas tree displays

• Holiday boat parade

• Lakeside streets filled with color

Walt Disney World – The Most Magical Place on Earth

Walt Disney World becomes a full holiday movie town every winter. Main Street U.S.A. glows with lights, themed wreaths, music, and even “snow.” Every park and resort features intricate decor, making the most magical place on earth feel even brighter during the season.

What adds to the holiday movie magic:

• Main Street U.S.A. holiday glow

• EPCOT Festival of the Holidays

• Hollywood Studios displays

• Life-size gingerbread houses in the resorts

Pensacola – Coastal Holiday Charm

Pensacola blends historic charm with Gulf-coast warmth. The Winterfest Celebration fills downtown with trolleys, performers, and glowing displays. Victorian buildings and festive shop windows add to the classic holiday movie feel.

Why it fits the theme:

• Historic downtown architecture

• Holiday trolley rides

• Coastal views

• Warm, inviting décor everywhere

Key West – A Tropical Holiday Movie Twist

For a colorful spin on a traditional holiday movie town, Key West shines. Boats covered in lights, festive bike parades, glowing palm trees, and warm island energy create a fun, tropical holiday backdrop that still feels cinematic.

What makes it special:

• Lighted boat parade

• Holiday trolley tours

• Tropical decorations

• Lively island streets full of color

A festive boat in Key West adds a tropical twist to classic holiday movie magic.

Connect with Donna Jarock about buying or selling up and down the Treasure Coast.