My dad has always been about “the drive.” He loves to hop in the car and check out a new neighborhood, drive up to the North Shore or even just head to a common destination farther away (like a Dairy Queen three towns over instead of the one right down the road) just to take a drive. When December rolls around, those drives become all about holiday lights. When I was young, we took many evening trips out to see the decorated houses. And while I don’t think I quite appreciated these drives back then (yes, there was some complaining), I would love to do that now. I don’t know, maybe I’ve matured.
Well, what’s even better than a relaxing drive? When the driving is done for you. Several Twin Cities companies offer cozy, warm motorcoaches and limousines (complete with tour guides) that drive locals and visitors alike all around our lighted neighborhoods and city streets. And this is Minnesota, folks, where we celebrate winter like no one else, so the light displays are grand.
Here are just a few local companies that offer holiday lights tours. Many fill up early, so register now.
I have to say, my dad would approve.

Award-Winning City Tours’ Holiday Lights Tour
Photo courtesy of metroConnections
Award-Winning City Tours’ Holiday Lights Tour by metroConnections
Depart Mall of America (north side) Dec. 10 & 17 at 6 p.m., two and a half hours, $29 (adults)
Wabasha Street Caves Winter Lights Tours
Every Saturday in December 7-9 p.m., $24
Renee’s Royal Valet
Private tours offered many evenings throughout December, contact for pricing
City View Limousine
Two, three or four-hour private tours, contact for pricing