This time of year, we’re all looking for the most “Insta-worthy” spots to grab holiday photos. Whether its for the annual Christmas card or your daily Instagram post, the Trail of Lights is perfect for capturing any special moment. Step onto the Trail and you’re sure to find countless displays to backdrop your holiday snapshots, but we’ve got your inside scoop for the best photo ops at the Austin Trail of Lights!

Your Ultimate Photo Op at the Trail
Sponsored content: Watkins Insurance Group




Watkins Photo Frame
Of course, the Trail makes quite the statement when you first arrive through our massive Trail of Lights entry tunnel. But step off the beaten path, once you enter, and make your way toward the Watkin’s Photo Frame on your left. This year, we’ve worked with Watkin’s Insurance Group to repurpose a previous year’s photo frame display. Our team made this display sing with festive holiday adornments and perfect placement on the Trail. A favorite among Trail-goers, the Watkin’s Photo Frame showcases literally one of the best lighted backdrops at the Trail of Lights - Ferris wheel, carousel and all!
Watkin’s has gone a step further by getting their whole company involved. They’ve sent out staff and brand ambassadors during busy nights to assist Trail-goers with group photos at their display. You won’t waste a single moment… these volunteers have got you covered! Thanks to Watkin’s Insurance Group, you’ll capture the memories from your visit in the perfect holiday photo framed with the glow of lights in the background.

PLUS… Make sure to snap some shots at these other not-to-miss photo ops along the Trail:
Enter the Trail of Lights and start with taking photos at the beautiful Rainbow Entry Tunnel.

Groovy Grove
A great spot to capture candid moments of the kiddos to remember for years to come!

Trim-a-Tree Grove
There is something so romantic about this little tree grove. Quiet and set apart from the Trail, the perfect spot for a proposal, couples photo or a place for the kids to run through!

The 360 Pennybacker Bridge
Another very popular proposal spot, or snap a shot of your kids actually

Santa’s House
Visitors young and young-at-heart can’t resist the opportunity to get their photo (taken by professional photographers) with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Just make sure you’ve been good this year!

Tiny Town
An interactive place to take in the sights of Austin (on a tiny scale!) and capture fun moments of friends, family, and children debating whether they’ve been naughty or nice.

The Top of the Ferris Wheel
Arguably the best view in all of Austin - this epic photo spot overlooking the entire Trail of Lights, Zilker Park and the skyline of Austin is sure to take your breath away.

Candyland
Ever wanted to see how taffy is made? Snap some shots of our many candy-making demonstrations taking place throughout the evenings.

Zip & Platinum Hospitality Area
About as Instagram-worthy as it gets! Our newly famous ATX letters, Shred Sled, Peppermint Pub and more offer countless scenes to choose from!