And we can’t really blame you, with Disney at its doorstep, theme parks galore, shopping for days, and endless entertainment options, it definitely boasts a pretty impressive amount of activities for tourists who are ravenous for adventure.
But tucked in away and for the most part, overlooked, is Orlando’s slightly quieter hidden gem of a neighbor Kissimmee.
And today, we’re stealing the spotlight from Florida’s most popular tourist destination and putting the shining star which is Kissimmee front stage and center.
This city has all the perks of being mere miles away from Orlando just without the relentless unmoving crowds and expensive hotel bills. Plus, Kissimmee has the stunning Lake Toho which should never be missed.
And don’t be under the misconception that being close to Florida’s tourist hotspot is all the city has to offer. That is far from the case.
Kissimmee has a whole host of entertaining options and adventurous activities to choose from. And in this article, we’re listing the very best of the best. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get straight to it.
Whether you’re chasing ultimate thrills or prefer tame and child-friendly rides, Fun Spot America has everything that you’re looking for. Regardless of age, this is sure to be a day of fun for the whole family.
It’s a fair bit quieter than its Orlando counterpart Fun Spot Orlando too, meaning that you won’t spend the majority of your day in long and tedious lines or battling through chaotic crowds.
From the Ferris Wheel with an impeccable view to Headrush 360 which will have your vision spinning as you turn upside down, there are so many amazing rides to choose from.
And if that wasn’t enough, there’s also a multi-level go-kart track too so you can demonstrate your need for speed.
When the Florida sun hangs high in the sky, there’s no better place to cool down than at H20 Live! Any waterpark will deliver fantastic pools and amazing rides, but there are not many that can compete with the technology and innovation that Island H20 offers.
This new and modern water theme park is really ahead of its time and uses themes such as social media and internet-savvy entertainment to offer a truly unique experience.
There are tons of rides to choose from, some thrilling and scream-inducing, some tamer and milder. There’s a huge wave pool to float and bob around in and even a surf simulator! So, it’s safe to say that there is no end to the fun you can have here.
Fancy getting up close and personal with some gators? Then why not book yourself onto one of the amazing 30-minute airboat tours?
Not only will you potentially get the chance to see those snappy animals lurking beneath the swampy wilderness, but you may also catch a glance at several other amazing creatures such as herons, otters, and more.
And even if you’re not exactly an animal enthusiast, the trip is worth it for the ride alone. Just be sure to hold on tight because that calm and steady ride can suddenly shoot across the water like the bullet out of the barrel of a gun without much warning.
Traveling to Kissimmee and not visiting Old Town is basically criminal. So, be sure to put it on your itinerary immediately. Don’t worry, I’ll wait.
Here, you’ll find some of the very best and most memorable dining and shopping opportunities you’ll ever have the pleasure of experiencing.
And there’s plenty to choose from, perhaps even too many to choose from. There are seventy-five different shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
And that isn’t all. There are also old-school games to provide that nostalgic blast from the past and a variety of well-renowned events that take place here such as the Saturday Classic Car Show.
Something any motor-vehicle enthusiast would be heartbroken to miss.
There could be no better way to spend your hard-earned money than to complete a lifelong dream. And swimming with dolphins is exactly that for many individuals.
Well, then Discovery Cove is the perfect place for you. Plus, it’s an all-inclusive resort so it really couldn’t get much better! Did someone say unlimited food, snacks, and drinks…yes, please!
While here, swimming with dolphins isn’t the only bucket-worthy activity to tick off your list. You can also feed a variety of exotic birds, snorkel with stingrays, and even play with otters.
And once you’re all worn out from your day’s worth of activities you can relax and sunbathe on the Cove’s man made beaches.
For a great family day out with the kids, you can’t beat a trip to Chocolate Kingdom. This is sure to have the little ones feeling like they’re walking through the Willy Wonka Chocolate factory, and you’ll have beaming smiles all around.
In this museum/factory, you’ll begin an interactive journey where you learn about all things chocolate, from the Cacao Tree Greenhouse to the Chocolate Museum, from the Mystical River of Chocolate to the Bean-To-Bar factory.
And then for the very best (and most delicious) part – the taste testing. Feel free to stuff your face with the creamy and delicious offerings that you’ll be able to try throughout the day.
Want to put your Mario Kart skills to the test? Then why not take to the track at Kissimmee Go-Karts?
Now, there won’t be bananas to slip on or shells to watch out for, but what there will be is a close to one-mile outdoor track where you can drift around corners and put the pedal to the metal like a pro.
And it’s probably worth mentioning that this track is the longest in the entirety of Central Florida (see also “Amazing Things To Do In South Florida Worth The Money“). So, while there are plenty of theme parks that offer karting experiences, none come close to that of Kissimmee’s.
If that wasn’t already enough, after you’re done, you’ll have the option to play over 50 arcade games including classics such as Ms. Pac-Man. And once you’re all gamed out, there’s even a pool where you can observe alligators swimming around!
This activity definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted, as you soar to new heights to discover Kissimmee from a bird’s eye viewpoint.
There are plenty of options to choose from, but we really recommend the sunrise rides – be sure to take your camera for this one, you’ll definitely want it.
This activity is the perfect mixture of thrill-seeking and serenity and is an opportunity you surely won’t want to miss.
The RMS Titanic is arguably one of the most famous ships in the world. Many individuals take the time to learn more about the notorious ship’s tragic end at this incredible Artifact Exhibition.
The museum features lifeboats, paintings, and letters from the time, but there is so much more to it than just this. You can also walk through the recreated rooms to see what the ship originally looked like in its former glory.
Not only that, but you’ll get the chance to dress up for the elegant and fancy dinner gala and listen to the stories of the time as costumed actors paint a picture of the ship’s fate and its passengers.
For many locals, Formosa Gardens, found just on the edge of Kissimmee, is a popular spot and venue for a selection of great parties and stunning weddings. However, it’s also one of the best places around to sip at some seriously good vino.
Tasting tours are available and they are sure to leave you satisfied, and maybe a little bit merry. They are so informative and fun and are a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of thriving city life.
Not only this but there are also over a whopping 7 acres of stunning botanical gardens to trek through for some stunning scenery.
You’ll also find a range of fruity or traditional wines, along with a great selection of craft beers to keep you refreshed after your adventuring.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! Our top ten list of the best places to visit while in Kissimmee. Whether you’re looking to stay local or venture a little further out, there’s something for everyone on this list.
From thrill-seeking pleasures to serene at-one-with-nature attractions you can rest assured there is an activity for the whole family in this stunning city.
So, enjoy the peace and quiet of being just far enough outside of Orlando while still having the perks of all the nearby activities by staying in Kissimmee. We promise you, you won’t regret it.
Hello, it’s great to have you here. My name is Julia and I am a travel blogger! I have been writing all of my life, and previously worked for a travel agency where I would recommend the best places to visit in the states.
If you are ready to take on the world, explore the sights, and see some of the most incredible places on offer, then take a look at some of my articles!
