SPECIAL: Classic City Christmas Lights Trolley Tour
Ride a Polar Express–themed trolley through Athens, Georgia’s brightest holiday displays on December 18, 2025. This 75-minute, one-night-only tour includes a Santa photo, free parking at Big Dogs on the River, and a compact route ideal for families and visitors.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
75 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; must be able to sit for the duration.
Wildlife
History
Athens is home to the University of Georgia, chartered in 1785, and the city’s holiday culture blends collegiate and local traditions.
Conservation
Keep neighborhoods respectful by staying seated during the route, minimizing flash photography near private displays, and packing out any trash to reduce local impact.
Athens Trolley Tours
SPECIAL: Classic City Christmas Lights Trolley Tour
Athens Trolley Tours is a local tour operator based in Athens, Georgia, that runs narrated trolley experiences and game-day shuttle services. The company offers a range of seasonal and event-focused trips designed for families, visitors, and University of Georgia fans. Highlights include the Classic City Christmas Lights Jolly Trolley Tour, which features holiday displays and a special guest appearance by Santa with a photo opportunity.
Game-day services include Wire Park Tailgate Shuttles that run from Wire Park and South Main Brewing to Sanford Stadium for UGA football matchups, offering round-trip transportation to eliminate parking stress. Athens Trolley Tours schedules specific tailgate shuttle trips tied to prominent games—examples listed include Wire Park Tailgate Shuttle to Sanford Stadium: UGA vs Ole Miss (10.18.25), Wire Park Tailgate Shuttle to Sanford Stadium: UGA vs TEXAS (11.15.25), and Wire Park Tailgate Shuttle to Sanford Stadium: UGA vs Charlotte (11.22.25). The operator focuses on convenient pick-up at social tailgate locations, allowing riders to enjoy pre-game festivities before a hassle-free shuttle to the stadium.
For holiday events and tours, Athens Trolley Tours programs family-friendly rides of approximately 75 minutes to view local light displays. The business communicates trip details and reservation information for each scheduled experience. Trip durations and specific event dates are provided with each listing to help guests plan. Advance reservations for trips are recommended due to limited availability on special events.
Location
Athens, Georgia
Departing from local pickup points
Tours Offered
4 Trips
Holiday & game-day services
Typical Duration
75 minutes
Holiday light trolley runtime
Family Friendly
Santa Appearance
Photo opportunity on Christmas tour
Choose a holiday lights tour or a Wire Park tailgate shuttle to Sanford Stadium — limited spots available, book now.
Arrive early
Check in at least 15 minutes prior to departure at 3155 Atlanta Hwy to secure preferred seats and boarding.
Dress for the evening
Bring warm layers and a light waterproof jacket—the trolley windows open reflections and evening air can be chilly.
Bring a low-light camera
Phones with night mode or a small camera capture window-lit displays and the Santa photo opportunity best.
Park at Big Dogs on the River
Free parking is available onsite at Big Dogs on the River, 265 Epps Bridge Lane—follow check-in signage.
Warm jacket
Evening rides can be cold; dress in layers for comfort during photo stops.
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Phone or camera with night mode
Captures low-light scenes and the Santa photo opportunity.
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Small flashlight or headlamp
Useful for brief moments off the trolley or navigating parking at night.
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Reusable cup or thermos
Bring a hot drink for comfort—BYOB is allowed if you prefer a festive beverage.
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