Kissimmee, FL

First incorporated as a city in 1883, Kissimmee was established just in time to take advantage of major railroad expansion in Florida, which boosted the community’s growth considerably. It remained largely an agricultural area until the arrival of Walt Disney World in neighboring Orlando in in 1971; tourism in the region exploded after that, and Kissimmee experienced an economic transformation. The city remains a major player in the Central Florida tourism industry, with scores of guests from across the world passing through every year.

Kissimmee residents benefit from a thriving restaurant scene that caters to the varied tastes of Kissimmee’s many visitors. Broadway is home to several local favorites, from Cuban cafes to all-American diners to traditional Italian fare and a few more exotic options.

With an economy based so heavily on tourism, Kissimmee has transportation down to a science. Highways 441 and 192 are the main arteries through the city, with direct access to the Florida Turnpike on the east side. Amtrak also serves the city with its Silver Meteor and Silver Star lines.

While theme parks and amusement parks are the signature attractions of Kissimmee, the city does maintain a healthy network of more traditional parks. Several public sports facilities such as Denn John Community Park provide excellent recreation grounds for the locals, and wooded nature preserves like Shingle Creek Park serve as tranquil retreats for quiet contemplation. Osceola Heritage Park features the popular concert venue Silver Spurs Arena as well as Osceola County Stadium, which hosts spring training games and other sporting events throughout the year.

The cost of living in Kissimmee is considerably lower than the state average, and rental rates tend to be fairly affordable. Single-bedroom apartments and condos are readily available for under $1000 per month, while large rental houses sometimes top $2,000 monthly.

If you enjoy shopping until you drop, Kissimmee is the location of your dreams. The small town is seriously close to big time shopping. From quaint boutiques to discount outlets galore and major malls, Kissimmee has everything needed to satisfy your every shopping desire.

If small shops and unique boutiques pique your interest, there are dozens of locally-owned stores for you to browse throughout Kissimmee and Celebration. If you are looking for a bargain, the Kissimmee/Orlando area is home to several outlet malls including Orlando Premium Outlets© and Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlets, these outlets feature major retailers offering incredible deals.

Of course, if malls with hundreds of shops, department stores, food courts, and movie theaters are what you want Orlando has several major malls for your enjoyment. The Florida Mall, The Mall at Millenia, and Festival Bay Mall satisfy every whim with choices from JC Penney and Macy's to upscale retailers like Jimmy Choo and Tiffany's & Co.

Old Town, Old Courthouse, Gatorland, Monument of States, Kissimmee Lakefront Park, Big Toho Marina, Kissimmee Historic District, Osceola County Stadium, Osceola Heritage Park