Best Parking for St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights
Where to Park for Nights of Lights in St. Augustine, Florida
Finding parking during Nights of Lights in St. Augustine can be part of the adventure—or a challenge if you don’t plan ahead. Each winter, the nation’s oldest city glows with millions of white lights, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll the historic streets and take in the magic. Whether you’re driving in for the evening or staying nearby, knowing where to park makes all the difference.
We ranked the top parking picks for St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights after reading real traveler reviews. See costs, walking time, and a low‑stress Airbnb + rideshare option. From the convenient Historic Downtown Parking Garage to free Park & Ride shuttles and scenic bayside lots, here’s your complete guide to the best parking options for St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights.
TL;DR
Is the big downtown garage worth it?
Yes. It’s central and large. Many visitors praise it, but note it can be busy at event times and costs $20 per entry.
Is the Park & Ride really free?
Yes—on select Nights of Lights dates. The city just expanded service for the 2025–26 season. Get the Nights of Lights app (iPhone) and check the schedule before you go.
Can I just park on the street?
Sure, but it’s metered and limited to 4 hours. Visitors say it can be hard to find spots when it’s busy and difficult to park with the people walking.
Quick Compare (Cost & How Far)
| Rank | Place to Park | Cost (typical) | How far from the lights* | Why pick it |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Historic Downtown Parking Garage (HDPF) | $20 per entry | ~10-minute walk | Big, central, easy for all-day visits |
| 2 | Free Park & Ride Shuttle (select dates) | Free parking + free shuttle | Shuttle drops downtown | Best on busy nights; less stress |
| 3 | Castillo de San Marcos Lot | $2.50/hour (4-hr limit) | Bayfront; very short walk | Closest vibe to the lights |
| 4 | City streets & city lots (pay stations) | $2.50/hour (4-hr limit) | 5–15-minute walk | Good for quick stops |
| 5 | Book an Airbnb + Uber/Taxi | Lodging cost + rideshare | 5–15-minute ride | Skip parking altogether |
*Approximate walking or ride time to the Nights of Lights downtown area.
*Walking time assumes you start at Plaza de la Constitución / bayfront.
Sources for rates & distance: City pages list the garage at $20 per entry, street/lots at $2.50/hour with 4‑hour limits. Visitors say the garage is about a ½‑mile (10–12 min) walk to the Plaza.
The Top 5
1) Historic Downtown Parking Facility (HDPF Garage) — Best Overall
Where: 1 Cordova St. (by the Visitor Information Center).
Cost: $20 per entry (special event rules may apply).
Walk: ~10 minutes to the Plaza.
What reviews say: Many visitors call it a “great parking spot” and love that it’s easy and central. Some note long lines getting in/out on festival or event days and say it can feel pricey. Tip: arrive early or leave a bit late to skip the exit rush.
2) Free Park & Ride Shuttle — Best for Peak Nights
How it works: Park free in signed satellite lots on select dates, then ride the free shuttle to the Visitor Information Center (steps from the lights). For the 2025–26 season, the city expanded shuttle days (Fridays–Sundays and some extra dates).
Best for: Families, busy weekends, and anyone who hates circling for a spot.
3) Castillo de San Marcos Lot — Closest Views, Short Stays
Cost: $2.50/hour; 4‑hour limit; vehicles 21 ft or shorter; small lot.
Walk: Very short—right on the bayfront near the lights.
What reviews say: Guests report the lot fills very quickly in busy seasons—go early. (It’s close, but not many spaces.)
4) City Streets & City Lots (Pay Stations) — Handy for Quick Stops
Cost: $2.50/hour; 4‑hour time limit (check each block’s sign).
Walk: 5–15 minutes, depending on the block.
What reviews say: Visitors call street parking “not that easy” during busy times and note meter rates feel steep. If the mobile app gives you trouble, use the kiosk at the pay station.
5) Book a Nearby Airbnb + Uber/Taxi — Skip Parking Entirely
Want zero parking stress? Park once at your stay and rideshare to the lights (usually 5–15 minutes each way). Two nice, low‑key options:
Serenity by the Sea – Vilano Beach (quiet beach area; easy rideshare over the bridge).
The August – Close to Downtown (short rides to the Plaza).
Nights of Lights Tips
Go early. Popular lots (like the fort) fill fast; the garage can back up at prime time.
Have a backup. If your first choice is full, the garage or the Park & Ride are the easiest plan B.
Read the signs. Street and lot spaces often have a 4‑hour limit; watch your time.
Peak weekends? The free shuttle is your friend.
