The 5 best Christmas light displays in America

Christmas is almost here, which means people around the country are buying trees, stocking up on presents, and attempting to string lights across their homes.

If you're looking for some professional light displays to check out, Time Out has you covered. They ranked the best ones in the country.

Continue reading to see which ones made the list.

Credit: https://miracleatbigrock.com/

Just 45 minutes from the Twin Cities, this massive display illuminates a one-mile trail with 25 million bulbs. Visitors can choose their preferred viewing style based on the day: driving through the 32-acre grounds on Mondays and Tuesdays, or walking the path from Wednesday through Sunday. The experience also has festive activities like sledding, Friday night fireworks, and a heated historic barn serving cocktails and local food.

Screenshot: https://www.hersheypark.com/plan-your-visit/christmas-candylane

Hersheypark’s display features five million lights and the famous 50-foot "Kissmas" tree, topped with a massive version of the famous chocolate candy. Beyond the illumination, guests can ride roller coasters, visit with Santa’s nine live reindeer, and watch the choreographed light show. For those wanting to stay warm in the car, the separate Hershey Sweet Lights attraction offers a two-mile drive through animated displays in the woods.

Screenshot: https://cliftonmill.com/christmas-lights/

Located in a village of fewer than 150 people, this historic 19th-century grist mill is blanketed in four million lights that create a spectacular 100-foot "waterfall" effect. The highlight of the visit occurs every hour, when the site goes pitch black and then every light blazes back on simultaneously. The grounds also feature a miniature village, a toy collection, and a peek at Santa loading his sleigh.

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Since 1932, this neighborhood has been affectionately known as "Portland’s Christmas Street." The vibe is charming and community-focused, with residents creating their own elaborate displays. It’s a free, pedestrian-friendly destination that even features a donation-based booth serving hot cider and cocoa.

Diane Macdonald / Contributor / Getty Images

Rooted in the custom of placing a white candle in the window, St. Augustine’s downtown glows with three million all-white bulbs. Visitors can admire the lights covering the Plaza de la Constitución via trolley, train, or a scenic boat tour. While you’re there, you can also try the local challenge of finding the single red bulb hidden secretly among the millions of white lights.