Transportation during Nights of Lights

Question

Q: we will be traveling there for Christmas with an elderly family member. She can walk a little but we have one tour on Orange St. (off the beaten path). I know Ubers will not be an option. Are there other avenues we can take to get there? Are there local pedicabs maybe? TYIA for any advice.

Answer

Visiting St. Augustine during Nights of Lights is magical, but it can be challenging to navigate with an elderly family member who has limited mobility, especially if you want to access areas off the main tourist paths like Orange Street. While rideshare options like Uber or Lyft may be limited during the holiday season or in very busy areas, there are other transportation avenues to consider.

Here are some practical options for getting around comfortably:

Pedicabs/Tricycle Taxis: St. Augustine has a number of pedicabs that operate especially during Nights of Lights. These are smaller, bicycle-pulled carriages that can carry one to two passengers comfortably. They are ideal for short distances and navigating narrow streets like those off Orange Street. It's advisable to book in advance or reserve one early in the evening, as they can get busy.
Horse-Drawn Carriages: Several companies offer horse-drawn carriage rides through historic areas. These are slower than pedicabs but very scenic and comfortable for someone who prefers minimal walking. They often accommodate small groups and can drop you near your destination.
Local Shuttle Services: Some hotels or local tour companies run shuttle loops specifically for Nights of Lights, connecting major parking areas with popular sections of the historic district. Check with your hotel or local visitor center for schedules and availability.
Golf Cart Rentals or Tours: A few companies provide small electric golf carts for guided tours, which can be useful for shorter trips on quieter streets. These usually require a reservation and may have time limits.

Additional tips:

Plan to arrive early in the evening to avoid heavy crowds, as the historic district gets extremely busy during peak hours.
Bring or rent a small folding chair or cushion for resting if your family member needs breaks along the way.
Map out your stops in advance and communicate with your pedicab or carriage driver—they can often make slight detours to drop passengers closer to less accessible locations.

Overall, pedicabs and horse-drawn carriages are your best bets for short distances and navigating narrow or crowded streets, while local shuttle services can help cover slightly longer distances with minimal walking. Booking in advance and planning your route can make the experience more enjoyable and stress-free for your elderly family member.