To many people, Walt Disney World is the be-all and end-all of central Florida, particularly the Kissimmee area. Yet, the community has so much more to offer! The city, quite naturally, has several web sites, like www.kissimmee.org and www.kissimmee.com. Check them out for a current listing of the recreational opportunities in the area, and a visitor's guide to the city.
Traveling the main highway through the Kissimee area (U.S. 192, going west off of I-4) leads to Walt Disney World. Ah, but going east bring you into a cornucopia of all that Kissimmee has to offer. Yes, traffic can be heavy, but the entertainment and shopping and dining opportunities are almost limitless. Old Town offers up delightful kiddie rides, just like an old-fashion county fair. Everything from a Ferris Wheel to a merry-go-round, from spinning tea cups to a dragon wagon kiddie coaster, and go-carts. You can check them out at www.old-town.com. Best part of it all: for $25 the kids get wristbands that allow them unlimited use of everything! (There is a deal you will not see over at Disney.) And for you adults, Old Town has wonderful shops and restaurants. You could spend all day there, and never be bored.
Feel like stepping back in time to the days of old? A little further down the road is the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament. Set up inside a magnificent re-creation of an English castle, they put on nightly jousts and knightly battles; all while you enjoy a banquet fit for a king. Check them out at www.medievaltimes.com, or call 1-888-WE-JOUST for information and reservation. Along the same lines, Arabian Nights and the Pirate's Dinner Theater give you sensational shows and fine dining. With Pirate's, be prepared for a heavy dose of audience participation, and not just for the adults. The show culminates with the children helping the King's soldiers capture the pirates and their booty. For full information on their shows and times, go to: www.piratesdinneradventure.com. Not only are they reasonably priced, but after the show their main hall is turned into a disco, where you can dance the night away.
If you want to get out in the sun for a bit of fun and exercise, and get wet, don't think that you have to go to Disney World. Wet n Wild has thrilling water flumes, exciting wave pools and quiet rambling streams, and a wonderful toddler play area. No matter the age, everyone in your family will find something to fill up their time at this fun-filled park.
Whether it's excitement or old time entertainment you're after, Kissimee gives it you all. It's a great base from which to enjoy your Florida vacation.
This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Jane Buckley
After a day of traffic, enjoy relaxing in your Kissimmee vacation home--find one with a pool, golf course, game room, (or all three!) at Zonder.com
Find ratings and reviews for Kissimmee FL family friendly things to do from TripAdvisor, Frommers, Fodors, etc. all in one place.