Am looking for off-grounds activities and destinations at Christmas time.
 

My wife and I will be without family members at Christmas and are thinking of going away from the Villages for a few days then, maybe Dec 23-26. We’re not looking for a major trip. Any travel ideas out there? Destinations? Activities? Thanks.

Since those are prime dates, maybe you can find a good deal on a cruise out of Cape Canaveral or Tampa. I always love being at a Disney resort during the holidays. Coronado comes to mind. They usually have Florida resident discounts too. Good luck.

Tampa is beautiful at Christmas all of the boats in the bay are lit up and decorated. They also have the Festival of Lights.
2024 Tampa Bay Festival of Lights & Santa's Village

St. Augustine Nights of Lights is a fun thing to do/visit during the holidays.

I second this idea. We went to St. Augustine a few years back around the holiday, and rode on a tram (I think you can buy tickets online), and it was a great decision. It drove all around the downtown area, which was super sparkly with all the lights, and we also had some enthusiastic teens riding with us who were really into the season, shouting “Merry Christmas” all along the way. They made it so much more fun!

Thanks to each who responded with ideas.

Check with Groome. They have both single- and multi-day trips to various places and events. I don't know what they offer over those dates but it might be worthwhile to check.

Good idea.

Not Groome, Workman. Groome took over the airport runs but Workman is still doing the day and multi day trips.

Mount Dora is supposed to be amazing at Christmas. I have only seen on Youtube but it is on my list of things to do in the future.

In the South East par to of the United States, the hands-down place I would go to for Christmas season is The Biltmore. It is the largest privately owned residence in the U.S. and they go ALL out to decorate at Christmas time. The impressive grounds, gardens, and the architecture of (arguably) the most historic house in America is something to be experienced and enjoyed. Wiki or google it up. If you end up taking any tours, pop the extra $15 for the self-guided option. Well worth it.

Saw the Downton Abbey exhibit there a few years ago. Very memorable, would certainly repeat!

They also have the Chihuly glass exhibit there now which was gorgeous.

Biltmore is in Ashville, NC. Ashville was devastated due to Milton.

But the Biltmore Estate was not devastated and has reopened.