Why Go to Kissimmee
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Kissimmee is one of the best home bases for a Walt Disney World vacation. It sits about 11 miles from the parks, even closer than Orlando, and it's convenient to Universal Orlando, including the new Epic Universe that opened in 2025, as well as SeaWorld. With a huge selection of budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, from family suites to private homes with pools, Kissimmee keeps you close to the magic at a better price.
There's fun beyond the theme parks too. Take an airboat ride on Lake Tohopekaliga at the headwaters of the Everglades, and look for alligators and birds, or paddle the peaceful waters of Shingle Creek. Stroll historic downtown Kissimmee's shops and restaurants, catch a show at the Silver Spurs Rodeo to experience the area's cowboy roots, and cool off at Island H2O Water Park. Old Town offers classic rides, car shows and nostalgic fun for all ages.
As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, I'll help you decide between staying on Disney property or in Kissimmee, and handle park tickets, dining and transportation for a stress-free trip.
BEST FOR
Families, theme-park travelers and multi-generational groups
BEST MONTHS
November–April and late August–October for some lower-crowd periods
EXPLORE
West Kissimmee has vacation-home communities near Disney; the US-192 corridor offers lodging and restaurants; downtown Kissimmee has lakefront parks.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Kissimmee
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Theme-park adventures and easy Central Florida escapes
Family
Theme Parks
Lakes
Shopping
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Plan theme-park days separately from nature outings to avoid spending most of the day in traffic.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Visit in cooler morning hours and keep away from wildlife.
Kissimmee Lakefront Park
Walk paths and enjoy Lake Tohopekaliga views in downtown Kissimmee.
Check the schedule for vehicle events and ride hours.
Old Town Kissimmee
Explore shops, amusement attractions and classic-car-themed events in a nostalgic entertainment district.
Choose a reputable outfitter and check water conditions.
Shingle Creek Regional Park
Explore a protected watershed landscape with paddling and walking opportunities.
Follow all posted animal-safety guidelines.
Gatorland
See alligators and other wildlife at a long-running Central Florida attraction.
Wear hearing protection if provided and reserve ahead.
Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures
Take an organized airboat trip in the Kissimmee-area wetlands.
A large resort with indoor atriums, pools and convenient access to the Orlando theme-park area.
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
West Kissimmee / near Disney
Hotel Tags
A spacious golf-oriented resort with villas and family recreation facilities.
Reunion Resort & Golf Club
Reunion / west Kissimmee
Hotel Tags
A colorful resort community with vacation cottages, dining and nearby entertainment.
Margaritaville Resort Orlando
Sunset Walk / west Kissimmee
Hotel Tags
An all-suite hotel convenient for families visiting Disney-area attractions.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista South
Central Kissimmee / US-192
Hotel Tags
A villa-style resort option with additional space for families and groups.
Magic Village Yards, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
West Kissimmee / Disney area
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Kissimmee
High 78°F · Low 59°F · Rain 2.2 in
Holiday season begins at the parks.
November through April is often more comfortable; summer is hot, humid and storm-prone.
Best Times to Visit Kissimmee
WHEN TO GO
06
Walking Resort Areas
Many attractions are separated by major roads; do not assume they are safely walkable from hotels.
05
Rideshare and Taxi
Choose recognized pickup zones and allow for long park exit queues.
04
SunRail Connections
SunRail serves parts of the Orlando-Kissimmee corridor on its published operating days; check station access.
03
Theme Park Shuttles
Some accommodations offer limited theme park transfers; confirm parks served and pickup times.
02
Rental Cars
A car simplifies visits to theme parks, lakes and attractions spread across Osceola County.
01
Orlando Airport
Orlando International Airport is a common gateway, with road transfers to Kissimmee accommodations.
A rental car or arranged shuttle is useful because attractions and hotels are spread out; verify whether accommodations offer park transportation.
Getting Around Kissimmee
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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