The holiday season is here, Orlando! If you're searching for the best spots to capture magical moments with Santa, look no further. We’ve rounded up the top locations for photos with Santa in Orlando for 2024. Whether you’re looking for a classic mall Santa or a unique holiday backdrop, these spots offer something special for everyone!
Classic Photos with Santa
Santa Photo Experience at The Florida Mall
- Why It’s Great for Families: The Florida Mall offers a festive indoor setting for a classic Santa photo experience, complete with holiday decor that’s perfect for young kids.
- What to Expect: Santa’s area is beautifully decorated, with various photo packages available, including digital options. The Florida Mall makes it easy for families to capture cherished holiday moments.
- Parent Tip: Plan to visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds, especially as Christmas gets closer.
- Dates: November 14 – December 24, 2024.
Santa Photo Experience at The Mall at Millenia
- Why It’s Great for Families: The Mall at Millenia is known for its elegant holiday decor, making it a sophisticated and festive setting for Santa photos.
- What to Expect: Capture classic holiday photos with Santa in a beautifully designed setup. Photo packages are available, with options for digital downloads.
- Parent Tip: Make a reservation in advance to avoid long wait times.
- Dates: Reservations starting November 8th.
Orlando Favorite Photos with Santa
Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art
- Why It’s Great for Families: The Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art is a beloved local event, offering a stunning holiday display and the opportunity for photos with Santa amidst beautifully decorated Christmas trees.
- What to Expect: Take photos with Santa in a setting filled with twinkling lights, holiday decor, and themed Christmas trees. The Festival of Trees includes other holiday activities and exhibits to explore.
- Parent Tip: Book tickets in advance, as this popular event can sell out quickly.
- Dates: Starting November 15th.
ICE! Featuring A Christmas Story at Gaylord Palms Resort
- Why It’s Great for Families: Gaylord Palms Resort offers an immersive holiday experience with its famous ICE! attraction, and Santa photos are a memorable part of the event.
- What to Expect: Take photos with Santa in a winter wonderland surrounded by incredible ice sculptures and holiday scenes inspired by A Christmas Story. This is a full holiday experience that’s both magical and unique.
- Parent Tip: Dress warmly, as temperatures inside the ICE! exhibit are kept below freezing.
- Dates: November 15th - December 24th.
Outdoorsy Photos with Santa
Light Up the Holidays at Cranes Roost Park
- Why It’s Great for Families: Light Up the Holidays at Cranes Roost Park offers a scenic outdoor experience with holiday lights, seasonal decorations, and Santa photos.
- What to Expect: Enjoy Santa photos with a beautiful lake and festive lights as the backdrop. The event includes live entertainment, holiday vendors, and family-friendly activities.
- Parent Tip: Arrive early to find parking and enjoy the holiday lights before taking photos with Santa.
- Dates: December 7th, 2024.
Oh, What Fun! Lake Nona Holiday Festival
- Why It’s Great for Families: The Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival at Lake Nona is a family-friendly outdoor event with Santa photos, festive activities, and holiday entertainment.
- What to Expect: In addition to Santa photos, enjoy holiday decorations, snow, live performances, and seasonal treats. This festival is packed with activities for kids and adults alike.
- Parent Tip: Check the event schedule to plan your visit around performances or special activities.
- Dates: Select weekends in December.
Prim & Proper Photos with Santa
The Historic Holiday Experience at Orange County Regional History Center
- Why It’s Great for Families: This historic setting provides a unique and polished backdrop for Santa photos, ideal for families looking for a traditional holiday experience.
- What to Expect: Enjoy a classic holiday atmosphere with Santa, surrounded by festive decor that captures the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas.
- Parent Tip: Reserve your tickets early, as this event is popular with families seeking a refined holiday experience.
- Dates: December 3 – 18, 2024.
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
- Why It’s Great for Families: Bass Pro Shops offers a free, classic Santa photo experience with festive holiday decor, making it a budget-friendly option.
- What to Expect: Santa’s Wonderland includes a decorated setup and holiday activities like crafts and games. Reservations are required for photos with Santa.
- Parent Tip: Book your reservation in advance, as this is a very popular event.
- Dates: November 2 – December 24, 2024.
Extra Tips for Parents with Young Kids
Timing is Everything: Plan your visit when your kids are well-rested and fed. Moreover, avoid peak nap times, and consider going early in the day to avoid long lines.
Capture Candid Moments: Bring your phone or camera for candid shots before and after the official Santa photo. Sometimes, these can be some of the most heartwarming moments!
Dress for Success: Pick comfortable, festive outfits for the kids, keeping layers in mind if you’ll be outdoors. Additionally, avoid bulky clothing that may make them feel too warm.
Orlando is full of festive fun and magical spots to take photos with Santa in 2024. Whether you prefer a traditional indoor Santa experience or an outdoor holiday festival, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re planning a kid-free holiday evening or need a little extra help, SitterTree can connect you with trusted sitters in your community. Happy holidays, Orlando families!
Planning a kid-free holiday evening or a more intimate holiday activity?
Don’t forget to arrange a sitter for the kids! On SitterTree, you can easily find trusted babysitters in your community. You can get $20 off your first sitter at the link below.