Orlando is a magical place to visit during the holidays, with festive lights, seasonal decorations, and plenty of opportunities to meet the jolly man himself – Santa Claus! Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, there are plenty of spots throughout the city to experience the joy of Santa visits and create special holiday memories. From shopping malls to theme parks, here’s your guide to the best places to see Santa in Orlando this holiday season.
The Mall at Millenia
For a classic Christmas experience, head to The Mall at Millenia. This shopping destination is one of the top spots to meet Santa, offering a festive setting complete with twinkling lights and a beautifully decorated backdrop. Santa is available for photos, and you have two options: bring your own camera and snap a quick picture for a small donation or go all out with a photography package. The package includes a professional photographer, festive props, and either digital or printed photos, so you can capture the moment for years to come. Don’t forget to bring your wish list—Santa has his own mailbox where kids (and adults) can drop off their Christmas wishes! Advance reservations are required, so be sure to plan ahead to secure your spot.
ICON Park
If you’re looking for a unique Santa experience, ICON Park is a must-visit. Located on International Drive, ICON Park not only offers an opportunity to meet Santa, but it also combines this festive moment with a thrilling ride. After your meet-and-greet with Santa, hop aboard The Orlando Eye for a private holiday capsule ride high above the city. This magical ride offers stunning views of Orlando’s holiday lights, and kids ride free with the purchase of a Santa photo package.
Gatorland
For something a little different, check out Gatorland’s Holiday Ho-Ho-Ho Down. This one-of-a-kind holiday celebration brings a Floridian twist to Christmas by introducing visitors to Gator Claus…yes, you read that right! Gator Claus and the mischievous Krampus Croc make for a memorable holiday visit that you won’t find anywhere else.
Beyond meeting Gator Claus, Gatorland offers plenty of festive fun, including games, shows, and holiday-themed activities. It’s a unique and playful way to celebrate the season in a way that’s unmistakably Orlando. If you’re looking for something quirky and different, Gatorland’s holiday celebration is a must-see!
Walt Disney World Resort
Of course, no holiday trip to Orlando would be complete without a visit to Walt Disney World Resort. The parks transform into magical winter wonderlands during the holidays, and you’ll find Santa at all four theme parks – Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Each park offers its own special holiday activities and décor, making it an enchanting experience no matter where you go. Walt Disney World is one of the best places in Orlando to experience holiday magic, and meeting Santa while exploring the parks is a Christmas tradition that can’t be missed.
Universal Orlando Resort
At Universal Orlando Resort, Santa makes a grand appearance during the Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida. Not only does he headline the parade, but he also lights the park’s Christmas tree during the parade finale.
But that’s not all. If you’re looking for a slightly different take on the holidays, Universal also offers Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Here, you can meet the Grinch himself, whose “grumpy” holiday spirit offers a fun and entertaining contrast to the traditional Santa Claus. Whether you’re enjoying the parade at Universal Studios or having a laugh at Grinchmas, Universal Orlando Resort is a fantastic destination for festive fun.
Your Home Away from Home with Tropical Villas Orlando
While you’re busy exploring Orlando’s best spots to meet Santa, make sure your holiday accommodations are just as magical. Tropical Villas Orlando offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy your holiday vacation in comfort and style. Our resort-style communities are equipped with private screened pools and spas, themed rooms, game rooms, and more, making your stay a true family-friendly getaway.
Each of our Orlando villas provides plenty of space and activities for everyone in your group, whether you’re traveling with kids, extended family, or friends. Choose from homes, condos, and townhomes with modern amenities and plenty of room to spread out. Whether you’re staying in for a cozy Christmas morning or coming home after a day of meeting Santa, we have the perfect rental to make your holiday experience complete.
Book Your Orlando Trip and See Santa
Orlando is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas, and with so many unique places to meet Santa, your holiday visit will be filled with magic. Whether you’re taking a ride on The Orlando Eye, snapping a photo with Santa at the Mall at Millenia, or having fun with Gator Claus at Gatorland, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Book your vacation rental today!