Our guide is packed with things to do in Kissimmee, Florida. The 2-day itinerary includes something for everyone, from history to water park fun.
Getting to Kissimmee, Florida
- By Air
- The nearest major airport is Orlando International Airport (MCO), about 25 minutes from Kissimmee.
- You can also fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), roughly 1 hour away.
- By Train
- Amtrak serves Kissimmee directly via the Silver Service line from cities like New York, Washington D.C., and Miami.
- By Car
- Kissimmee is conveniently located off U.S. Highway 192 and near Interstate 4, making it easily accessible from Orlando and Tampa.
- It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from Miami and a 1-hour drive from Daytona Beach.
- By Bus
- Greyhound and Megabus provide service to the Kissimmee area, with connections from major Florida cities.
Best Time to Visit Kissimmee, Florida
- March to May – Best overall time with pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and manageable crowds.
- June to August – Peak summer season with family vacations, theme park fun, and hot, humid weather.
- September to November – Fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and good deals on accommodations.
- December – Visit for festive events and mild winter weather, especially in nearby Orlando attractions.
- January to February – Cooler temperatures and thinner crowds; ideal for budget-friendly travel and outdoor exploration.
Hotels in Kissimmee, Florida
- Margaritaville Resort Orlando – Upscale tropical-themed resort with pools, spa, and entertainment near theme parks.
- Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – Lavish resort with indoor atriums, water park, and family-friendly amenities.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista South – Spacious suites with free breakfast and easy access to attractions.
- Magic Moment Resort and Kids Club – Family-focused hotel offering themed rooms, play areas, and a fun vibe.
- Celebration Suites – Budget-friendly option with kitchenettes and plenty of space for families or groups.
- Flamingo Waterpark Resort – Affordable resort featuring an on-site waterpark, ideal for kids and families.
If want to experience Kissimmee on a tour, book one of these:
Create lasting memories with a Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Kissimmee.
Go on a Private 8-hour Lake Toho Fishing Charter Near Kissimmee.
Or check out Kissimmee and St. Cloud Beach Tour on All Electric Trike
Day 1 in Kissimmee, Florida: Begin at the Museum of Military History in the morning, followed by a walk around Lake Tohopekaliga. Have a quick lunch followed by an airboat ride through wetlands. In the evening, enjoy a stroll through the charming Old Town.
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1. Museum of Military History
Explore fascinating war exhibits and honor heroes at this affordable attraction.
© Museum of Military History
The Museum of Military History pays tribute to those who have served the United States in warfare; its prime objective is to help visitors understand what is was like to be in the armed forces in times of conflict. It covers World Wars I and II, the American Civil War, the Korean and Vietnam wars, and the conflicts in the Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
It has exhibits of military artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, and vehicles as well as plenty of photographs and oral and written accounts of time spent overseas serving the country. The museum is a new venture that opened in 2012 and is still growing; its exhibits are increasing as people donate funds and artifacts to the museum.
- Address: 5210 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee, FL 34746, Phone: 407-507-3894
- Hours: 10 am–6 pm Tuesday-Sunday; Closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
- Admission Rates: $11-$14, Active Military Free, Children 5 and under Free
2. Lake Tohopekaliga
Walk along scenic shores or fish under the summer sun.
© Courtesy of Louis - Fotolia.com
Lake Tohopekaliga, commonly known as Lake Toho, derives its name from the Seminole Indian word meaning “we shall gather here together." Lake Toho is world renowned for the excellence of its bass fishing and many marinas line the shore of this huge (22,000-acre) lake.
There is also a vast array of waterfowl here as well as gators and otters. On the north side of the lake, Lakefront Park has a scenic walking trail open to pedestrian traffic, chairs, sun loungers, barbecues, restrooms, and picnic shelters. It also has a children's playground and a splash area for toddlers and preschoolers.
Stop for Lunch at:
- Woodsby's Countryside Café – Delight in hearty breakfasts and fluffy pancakes.
- Tropical Paradise Restaurant – Taste Caribbean flavors with jerk chicken and plantains.
- Mediterranean Deli – Explore diverse flavors with gyros and falafel.
3. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures
Race through wetlands and spot wildlife on this exciting trip.
© Boggy Creek Airboat Rides
Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures in Kissimmee, Florida, brings visitors into the cypress-filled wetlands and swamps that mark the headwaters of the Everglades. On seventeen-passenger U.S. Coast Guard approved airboats, the excursions allow riders a view of native Florida alligators, turtles, and an astonishing variety of bird life. Boggy Creek Airboat Rides offers half-hour and hour-long day trips, sunset tours, and 45-minute long nighttime voyages that guarantee alligator sightings.
At their boat launch on Southport Road visitors may dine at the new BBQ restaurant, have a close-up look at reptiles in the gator enclosure, and walk through an informative Native American village that demonstrates how early Americans hunted, cooked, and lived.
Address: 2001 E. Southport Road, Kissimmee, FL 34746, Phone: 407-344-9550
4. Old Town
Stroll past vintage cars and enjoy shops on a fun weekend.
© Old Town
No visit to Kissimmee is complete without spending some time in Old Town, a popular entertainment district in the city. This beloved attraction is a throwback to the city’s yesteryears, when lines were shorter, crowds a bit smaller, and fun a little bit simpler than it is now. The best way to enjoy Old Town is on foot, as the entertainment district features 18 lovely acres of tree-lined brick paths, boutique shops, family-owned restaurants, as well as some of the more mainstream establishments. In the evenings, visitors can also enjoy car shows like the Friday Nite Muscle Car Cruise or stop by small scale theme parks with great rides for older and younger generations to enjoy together.
Address: 5770 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, Florida 34746, Phone: 407-396-4888
Where to Eat after your Old Town stroll:
- Mizu Japanese Steak House – Savor handmade sushi and teriyaki bowls.
- Five Guys – Bite into classic burgers and loaded fries.
- The Wharf at Sunset Walk – Enjoy farm-to-table freshness and gourmet sandwiches.
- Mr. & Mrs. Crab – Dig into seafood boils and buttery crab legs.
Day 2 in Kissimmee, Florida: On the second day, take the kids to Fun Spot America or Gatorland. Couples can head to Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens. Last but not least, visit Busch Gardens Tampa for some outdoor fun.
5. Fun Spot America
Ride thrilling coasters and play games with the kids.
© Fun Spot America
Have the best day ever at one of Kissimmee’s most beloved theme parks, Fun Spot America. This family-owned theme park promises buckets of fun and attractions to entertain every visitor, no matter what their preference. Some of the most popular rides at the park include the Mine Blower Coaster, which boasts an incredible 80-foot drop, the Headrush 360, which will turn every rider’s world upside down, and the tallest Sky Coaster in the world called the Sky Sled. Some of the other rides include, but are not limited to, the Hot Seat, the Hurricane Coaster, and the Crazy Couch. From thrill-seekers to people who just want to chill, Fun Spot America is bound to deliver priceless memories that you and the family will look back on fondly.
Address: 2850 Florida Plaza Boulevard, Kissimmee, Florida 34746
6. Gatorland
See giant gators and zipline above swamps on a wild family outing.
© Gatorland
Gatorland
is a wildlife preserve and theme park in Orlando, Florida, famous for its conservation efforts and for its four exceedingly rare leucistic “white" alligators. Thousands of alligators and crocodiles reside in a natural breeding marsh, which can be viewed from a boardwalk or from observation towers. The park offers educational programs, reptile shows, a petting zoo, and an aviary.
The newest additions to the park are zip-lines, one 1,200 feet long that takes riders over a pool of alligators and the other a little shorter but accessible to guests with mobility issues. Special programs include opportunities to feed the alligators in the breeding marsh, venture out onto the boardwalk at night, and pose with 8-foot alligators in the arena.
Address: 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, U.S. 441, Orlando, FL 32837, Phone: 407-855-5496
7. Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens
Savor local wines and admire the romantic vineyard setting.
© Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens
Create incredible memories in a stunning destination when you visit the Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens. Nestled within the Formosa Gardens, this winery is home to a massive 13,000-square-foot winery in addition to 3,000 square feet of event and restaurant space. The winery is dedicated to setting a constructive example of sustainable enterprise and environmental responsibility to other establishments. As such, they make every effort to source sustainable produce, and to make their wine in a way that cares for the environment but also delivers utmost flavor to their vintages. When you come to Island Grove, don’t just stop at sampling their wine. Be sure to try their craft beers and to pay a visit to their gardens which share knowledge with visitors about natural produce growing methods and honey farming.
Address: 3011 Formosa Gardens Boulevard, Kissimmee, Florida 34747, Phone: 407-507-9888
8. Busch Gardens Tampa
Discover exotic animals and brave roller coasters on an exciting day trip.
© Busch Gardens Tampa
Busch Gardens Tampa is one of the most popular theme parks in the United States, with visitors traveling from all over the world to experience many thrilling rollercoaster rides, encounters with animals, and child-friendly fun. Busch Gardens is dedicated to animal conservation across the globe, and the animals in the park are meticulously cared for and are part of the park's breeding and education initiatives.
The park has guided animal tours both during the day and at night, the most popular being the Serengeti Safari, in which visitors ride in open-air touring vehicles for photo-worthy viewing of zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and other residents of the African plains. The park has several casual restaurants, a multitude of shops, and gives kids and their families the chance to dine with favorite characters.
Address: 10105 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, Phone: 813-884-4386
Day Two Lunch Ideas on Our Itinerary:
- Big John’s Rockin’ BBQ – Feast on slow-cooked ribs and tangy sauce.
- Romano’s Macaroni Grill – Indulge in rich pasta and creamy tiramisu.
- Taco Maker Mexican Grill – Sample authentic street tacos and zesty guacamole.
Your Questions Answered:
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Question: Where is Kissimmee located, and what is it known for?
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Answer: Kissimmee (Video) is next door to the exciting attractions and theme parks of Orlando and has many offerings of its own.
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Question: What activities can thrill-seekers enjoy in Kissimmee?
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Answer: Thrill-seekers can go on helicopter rides, jet ski, zip-line, fly warplanes, and speed across the water in airboats.
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Question: What can conservation lovers do in Kissimmee?
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Answer: Conservation lovers will enjoy Gatorland or kayaking on Shingle Creek or Lake Toho to see gators in the wild.
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Question: How can visitors explore the human history of the area?
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Answer: There is much human history in the area, and it can be explored in a variety of museums, a pioneer village, or on cultural tours.
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Your Kissimmee, Florida Trip at a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Warm but not too hot, with fewer crowds at attractions. |
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – A luxurious resort with a water park and tropical gardens. |
Visit Old Town Kissimmee – Enjoy classic cars, shops, and fun attractions. |
Summer (June-August) – Hot and humid, but great for water parks and theme parks. |
Margaritaville Resort Orlando – A fun, tropical-themed resort close to Disney. |
Cool off at Island H2O Water Park – Experience thrilling slides and a relaxing lazy river. |
Fall (September-November) – Mild temperatures and fewer tourists, great for outdoor activities. |
Reunion Resort & Golf Club – A spacious resort with top-tier golf courses. |
Take an airboat tour at Boggy Creek – See Florida’s wildlife up close in the Everglades. |
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