Hotels in Kissimmee

Found in central Florida in the USA, Kissimmee is just a short drive to Orlando and that is the main reason to choose this city as a holiday destination. It is also just over an hour away from beaches on Florida’s eastern coast. Sitting on the northern shore of Lake Tohopekaliga, it is also known for Shingle Creek which runs through the city and is considered to be the headwaters of The Everglades. Kissimmee is the ideal base for a beach, nature, kayaking, or theme park holiday.

There is a huge number of hotels and other holiday accommodation thanks to the proximity to Orlando. The cheap hotels in Kissimmee offer a budget-friendlier alternative to those close to the theme parks.

Neighborhoods of Kissimmee

Unlike many American cities, Kissimmee is fairly low-rise. Notable areas are:

• Downtown: Dating back to 1883, the attractive city center has 189 historic buildings and a quaint main street with antique shops, cafes, and bars.
• Lakefront: Has a great boardwalk with lake views, a floating dock marina and a small amphitheater used for local events.
• The 192 Corridor: Named for Highway 192, this area is not only the road to Disney World but is lined with souvenir shops in weird and wonderful shapes (for example Orange World), mini-golf courses and themed restaurants.

What to see and do in Kissimmee

Thanks to its location, you can enjoy a menu of terrific holiday sights and activities including:

Historical attractions

• Monument of States: A symbol of unity created after the 1940 attack on Pearl Harbor.
• Old Holy Redeemer Catholic Church: Dating from 1912, it’s on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
• Osceola County Welcome Centre and History Museum: An ethnographical exhibition including some interesting dioramas.
• Colonial Estate: Also known as the Tucker/Ivey House, it was built by a lumber baron.

Outdoor activities

The lakes and river provide opportunities for outdoor fun including:

• Makinson Island: Sitting in Lake Toho, there are walking trails and camping sites.
• Shingle Creek: Has a popular kayak trail and the chance to spot crocodiles.
• You can also go fishing, canoeing, and take an airboat ride.

Theme parks

Obviously a major attraction and the closest are:

• Margaritaville Resort Orlando: Located in Kissimmee, 5 miles from Disney’s Animal Kingdom, it features a 12-acre social-media themed water park.
• Old Town: A recreation of an old-style Florida town complete with carousel and Ferris wheel.
• Fun Coast America: Not far from Highway 192, there are 20+ assorted rides including two giant multi-level kart rides.
• Walt Disney World Resort: The world-famous and most visited theme park in the world is 12 miles from Kissimmee.
• Universal Orlando: Now adored for its Harry Potter-themed attractions, it’s 18 miles from the city
• Sea World Orlando: A park of marine attractions and roller coasters is 12 kms away.
• Gatorland: See alligators, crocodiles, and other Floridian wildlife up close – 4 miles away

What to eat in Kissimmee

Food is typically Floridian which, thanks to the huge number of foreign visitors, has a majorly international flavor. You can get every type of cuisine and food in the themed restaurants in Kissimmee and the theme parks. That doesn’t mean American food has been pushed out. You will find all-day pancake houses, Tex-Mex restaurants,burger joints, BBQ shops, and traditional diners among the thousands of food places.

The most iconic Florida foods and drinks to try are:

• Orange juice: Best when freshly squeezed.
• Key lime pie: This creamy dessert is found everywhere.
• Conch fritters: Chunks of conch deep-fried.
• Stone crab: Best in season, simply cooked.
• Cuban sandwich: A pressed sandwich made from roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, yellow mustard ,and pickles.
• Apalachicola oysters: Best served on the half shell with freshly-squeezed lemon.
• Gator bites: Deep-fried chunks of alligator meat.

Typical events and festivals in Kissimmee

With all the festivities and celebrations in the theme parks and locations around and about, every day is a holiday but there are other events too, including:

• Balloon Festival: A one day showcase of hot air balloons in June at the Osceola Heritage Park.
• Cuban Sandwich Festival: The annual attempt to build the biggest Cuban sandwich in the world is held every August.
• Old Town's Cruise and Saturday Classic Cruise: The longest-running weekly car show and cruise in the USA.
• Artisan and Farmers Market: Happens every Saturday on The Promenade.

How to move around in Kissimmee

It’s easy to get around the main parts of the city on foot, while bus services will convey you to the outer areas to the shopping malls and parks. However, to enjoy a theme park holiday in Kissimmee, a car is essential. Car hire is very easy! There are also plenty of Uber/Lyft rides, limo hire and shuttles to motor coaches.

The climate in Kissimmee

The climate of Central Florida is warm and temperate. This means hot summers, mild winters and more than average rainfall. The best months to visit Kissimmee are March, April, and November when temperatures average 28°C. July and August are incredibly hot with average temperatures above 32°C and are also the wettest months. The coldest month is January (15.6°C).