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Magical Nights of Lights & License to Chill Snow Island

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands

By Maria Vargas, co-publisher Lawrenceville Macaroni Kid December 11, 2019

Holidays are here, and I love to share with you about some places you can enjoy with the whole family. This time, it’s all about Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. I would have never thought that this laid-back, fun in the sun gem would have a wintery theme. But it sure does deliver its promise on creating memorable moments for this holiday season.

First thing I want to highlight is the License to Chill Snow Island. Known as the wave pool with water attractions, but completely transformed with no trace of summer being here. This area is filled with carnival rides, a snow play area and the grand Parrot Mountain for snow tubing. There are over twenty attractions and there is something for every age. I did the math on what an average person above 42” can enjoy here and it averages to $3 a ride when you buy an all attraction pass. Not to mention, that you will end up repeating a few of the attractions. The value is worth it my friends, and you will spend endless hours playing. 


After the family and I went snow tubing and did quite a few carnival rides, we hitched a “hayride” (ride on the sand) to dinner at the Landshark Bar & Grill. The food was super delicious, and it was reasonably priced as well. There was live entertainment and the staff was very attentive and friendly. Here, attractions are set up for the little ones. Not to mention, this is a great place the do s’mores by the two large fire pits (maybe dessert?). On our way back to Snow Island where Parrot Mountain lies, we stopped by to say hello to Santa Claus at his workshop. Santa Claus is adorable, and there are photo packages available for purchase.


After some refueling, we headed back to Snow Island to do ice skating. Anyone can enjoy this attraction and they also offer a skate mate frame to hold onto while skating for the little ones. The rink is a good size and the skates are in good condition. Considering that ice skating was a new experience for my kids, they had a great time despite a few falls. After a bit of cardio, we stopped at the gift shop for some s’mores, hot chocolate and little Christmas décor shopping.

The night was nearing its end for us. So, to close off the night, we all got in the car, cranked up the Christmas music and drove through the Magical Nights of Lights Driving Tour. This drive-by tour is simply an amazing display of whimsical lights and themes. Our favorite set of displays was the 12 days of Christmas because we all sang the song as we passed an item. I think it took us about 15-20 minutes or so to do the whole tour. The Magical Nights of Lights Driving Tour is perfect for any day of the week because you don't have to get out of the car to get a little Holiday spirit inspiration. However, I still think enjoying Snow Island and this attraction all in one day is so much fun and it will give endless hours of family time. So, what are you are waiting for? Head on over to Margaritaville at Lanier Islands and make some memories.


License to Chill Snow Island runs until February 23, 2020.  Ticket prices range from $30 - 37 per/person. Children ages 2 and under are FREE.

Magical Nights of Lights runs through January 5, 2020.  Ticket prices for a 1-10 passenger car ranges from $42-52 per/car. Want an additional $5 off? Click here for the Discount Days link.


Address: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518
Phone: (470) 323-3440

Email: info@margaritavillelanierislands.com

Purchase Tickets Here


Note: Lawrenceville Macaroni Kid was compensated for this review, however, all opinions are my own.