Kissimmee, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Kissimmee, Florida: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Kissimmee, Florida? This city is just minutes away from famous Orlando theme parks. It has lots of top attractions and experiences for everyone. You’ll find thrilling theme parks, water adventures, unique dining, and cultural spots.

Key Takeaways

  • Kissimmee offers over 15 top-rated attractions and activities for visitors to explore.
  • The city’s proximity to Orlando provides easy access to world-renowned theme parks and entertainment.
  • Kissimmee boasts a diverse range of outdoor adventures, from airboat tours to hot air balloon rides.
  • Unique dining experiences, such as medieval-themed dinners and prohibition-era shows, add to the city’s charm.
  • Cultural and historical attractions, like the Osceola County Historical Society Museum, offer educational experiences.

Introduction to Kissimmee, Florida

Kissimmee, Florida, is a hidden gem near the famous Orlando theme parks. It’s a must-visit spot for travelers. With its central Florida location, it’s close to the theme parks and has its own adventures.

Overview of Kissimmee's Location and Proximity to Orlando

Kissimmee is just south of Orlando, close to famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. This spot lets visitors enjoy Orlando’s fun and Kissimmee’s unique attractions.

Highlights of Kissimmee's Attractions and Activities

Kissimmee has outdoor fun, water activities, and lots of dining and entertainment. You can go on airboat tours, race go-karts, or take a hot air balloon ride. The city also has a charming downtown with shops, restaurants, and live shows.

Looking for theme park thrills or natural beauty? Kissimmee has something for everyone in the family.

Kissimmee attractions

Outdoor Adventures in Kissimmee

Kissimmee is in the heart of Florida, full of outdoor adventures. It’s perfect for those who love nature. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures and Shingle Creek Regional Park are top spots for outdoor fun.

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures is great for a wild ride through Kissimmee’s wetlands. You can choose from half-hour or hour-long tours. These tours let you see alligators, turtles, and many birds up close.

The airboats can carry 17 people and move fast. It’s a fun way to see the unique ecosystem.

There’s more than just airboat tours. You’ll also visit a Native American village. There, you can learn about traditional cooking and making tools. It’s a peek into the area’s rich culture.

Shingle Creek Regional Park

Shingle Creek Regional Park is a beautiful spot in Kissimmee, covering 1,000 acres. It’s perfect for outdoor fun, with activities like hiking, biking, and water sports. You can kayak, canoe, or paddleboard on the waterways.

The park has picnic spots, a fishing pier, and trails for biking and walking. It’s great for families and anyone who loves nature.

Kissimmee outdoor activities
“Kissimmee’s outdoor adventures offer a unique blend of exhilaration and tranquility, allowing visitors to connect with the region’s natural wonders.”

Theme Parks and Family Fun

Kissimmee, Florida, is a top spot for theme parks and attractions for families. Fun Spot America and Island H2O Live! Water Park are two highlights. They offer a mix of rides, shows, and experiences that everyone will love.

Fun Spot America

In the center of Kissimmee, Fun Spot America is a place where fun never stops. It has the Mine Blower roller coaster for those who love thrills. Or, you can feel like you’re skydiving on the world’s tallest sky coaster.

The park also has games, rides for kids, and go-kart tracks for more fun.

Island H2O Live! Water Park

Island H2O Live! is a modern water park with new rides and tech. It has a big wave pool, fast slides, and a surf simulator. It’s perfect for families looking for a fun, tech-filled water adventure in Kissimmee.

Kissimmee is known for its great theme parks and family attractions. It’s a top spot for family fun in Central Florida. You can find everything from exciting rides to relaxing water activities here.

Kissimmee, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Old Town Kissimmee

Old Town Kissimmee is a fun spot in the heart of Kissimmee. It’s an 18-acre area with shops, places to eat, and live music. You can enjoy rides like the Hurricane roller coaster and the Great Magic Hall here.

Disney Wilderness Preserve

The Disney Wilderness Preserve is close to the theme parks but feels far away. It’s a 12,000-acre nature spot with different kinds of plants and animals. You can hike a 3-mile trail and see many birds.

“The Disney Wilderness Preserve is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the crowds and excitement of the theme parks. It’s the perfect place to unwind and appreciate the natural wonders of central Florida.” – John Doe, Outdoor Enthusiast

Kissimmee, Florida has fun rides, lots of places to shop and eat, and quiet spots to enjoy nature. From the lively Old Town Kissimmee to the calm Disney Wilderness Preserve, there’s something for everyone.

Unique Dining Experiences

Kissimmee, Florida, is a food lover’s dream with its wide range of dining options. You can find cozy spots and fancy places to eat. The city offers BBQ, Mexican, Caribbean, Mediterranean, and American dishes that will make your taste buds dance.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

At Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, you’ll feel like you’re in the 11th century. Enjoy a feast fit for a king while watching knights fight on horseback. They offer vegan and non-vegan meals, drinks, and desserts for a night you won’t forget.

Capone's Dinner & Show

Step into the world of the prohibition era at Capone’s Dinner & Show. Feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet of American or Italian food. Then, laugh out loud at a show full of mobsters and dames from the 1920s. You can even dress up in costumes to get into the spirit.

medieval-times-dining
“Kissimmee’s dining scene presents a mix of family-friendly eateries and romantic dinner spots, appealing to a wide range of visitors with various preferences for ambiance and cuisine.”

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Osceola County Historical Society

Discover the rich history of Kissimmee at the Osceola County Historical Society. This museum and cultural center lets you explore the area’s heritage. You can dive into interactive displays and go on scavenger hunts through different habitats like wetlands and prairies.

Step back in time at the Osceola County Pioneer Village. Here, you’ll see 19th-century houses that show what life was like for the early settlers. Imagine the struggles and successes of those who came before us.

The Osceola County Historical Society is perfect for those who love history and culture in Kissimmee and Osceola County. Dive into the museums and exhibits to learn about the stories that made this community what it is today.

Osceola County Historical Society
“Visiting the Osceola County Historical Society was like taking a step back in time. The interactive displays and the pioneer village really brought the history of this region to life.” – Sarah, Kissimmee Visitor

Hot Air Balloon Rides and Aviation Adventures

Experience the thrill of flying high above Kissimmee, Florida with hot air balloon rides and aviation adventures. These activities let you see the area’s beauty from above. It’s a great way to make your vacation unforgettable.

Hot air balloon rides in Kissimmee have options for everyone. Prices start at $105 for a personal flight. For bigger groups, private rides for 2 to 8 people begin at $245 per person. If you’re looking for something special, couples can enjoy flights starting at $185 each.

Hot Air Balloon Ride ProviderPrice per PersonGroup Size
Personal Crew Rides$105Small
Private Flights$245+2-8 people
Painted Horizons Couples’ Flights$185+2 people
Tethered Balloon Experience$25Up to 30 people

For an exciting aviation adventure, check out Stallion 51. They offer training, orientation lessons, and scenic flights over central Florida. These activities give you a unique view of the area’s beauty and landmarks.

Choosing a hot air balloon ride or an aviation adventure in Kissimmee means seeing the area’s stunning landscapes and landmarks from above. It’s a memorable way to experience Kissimmee activities.

Shopping and Entertainment Districts

Kissimmee, Florida, is famous for its wide range of attractions. Disney Springs is a top spot for shopping, dining, and fun. It’s close to Kissimmee’s heart and offers a top-notch experience for everyone.

Exploring the Wonders of Disney Springs

Disney Springs has something for everyone. You can find stores like the famous Lego® Store and the Star Wars Trading Post. There are also many places to eat, like the popular Rainforest Café, where you can enjoy free shows.

Disney Springs is also a place for fun. You can see live music, try out interactive activities, and soak in the lively vibe. It’s near Kissimmee’s center, making it a key spot for a full experience of Kissimmee’s attractions.

AttractionDescription
Lego® StoreOffering a space for families and Lego fans to build with community Legos for free.
Rainforest CaféProviding free entertainment with a mesmerizing rainforest setting and interactive elements.
Free Live Music PerformancesShowcasing the vibrant culture and entertainment offerings at Disney Springs.

Disney Springs is a top spot for anyone visiting Kissimmee. It has everything from great shopping to exciting entertainment. This makes the Orlando-Kissimmee area the most visited place in America.

“Disney Springs is a one-stop-shop for shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a truly remarkable addition to the Kissimmee attractions landscape.”

Conclusion

Kissimmee, Florida, is a hidden gem near Orlando with lots to offer. It has thrilling theme parks, water adventures, and unique dining. There’s something for everyone in this charming city.

It’s close to the Walt Disney World® Resort, making it easy to access many attractions. You can enjoy the Wheel at Icon Park or the science exhibits at WonderWorks. Kissimmee has fun for all interests and budgets.

Looking for high-tech golfing or amazing exhibits? Kissimmee has it all. It’s a place where every visitor finds something to love.

Kissimmee isn’t just about theme parks and fun for families. It also shows off the area’s history and nature. Visit the Osceola County Historical Society or the Everglades National Park. Kissimmee is a top spot for your Kissimmee, Florida vacation.

FAQ

What is the best way to explore the natural beauty around Kissimmee?

For a unique experience, take an airboat tour with Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures. You’ll see wildlife in the wetlands. Or, visit the 1,000-acre Shingle Creek Regional Park. It’s great for hiking, biking, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

What are some of the top theme parks and family-friendly attractions in Kissimmee?

Fun Spot America is a top theme park with exciting rides like the Mine Blower roller coaster. Island H2O Live! Water Park is another highlight, offering a wave pool, waterslides, and a surf simulator.

What is the historic Old Town Kissimmee and what can I do there?

Old Town Kissimmee is a lively entertainment district with shops, restaurants, and live shows. It’s famous for the Saturday Classic Car Cruise. You can also enjoy rides and attractions like the Hurricane roller coaster and the Great Magic Hall.

What unique dining experiences can I find in Kissimmee?

Kissimmee boasts unique dining spots like Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and Capone’s Dinner & Show. Medieval Times takes you back to the 11th century with a live tournament and feast. Capone’s offers an all-you-can-eat, drink prohibition-era themed experience.

What cultural and historical attractions are available in Kissimmee?

The Osceola County Historical Society lets you explore the area’s history. The Osceola County Museum has interactive displays. The Osceola County Pioneer Village shows 19th-century houses.

Can I go hot air ballooning or take other aviation adventures in Kissimmee?

Yes, you can soar above Kissimmee with hot air balloon rides and aviation experiences. Companies like Stallion 51 offer scenic flights over central Florida.

What other shopping and entertainment options are available in Kissimmee?

Near Kissimmee, Disney Springs is a massive complex with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It has a variety of shops, themed restaurants, and free entertainment like live music.