Kissimmee is a city with 60,000 residents in Osceola County, Florida. Millions of visitors come to Kissimmee's theme parks every year, so there's no doubt that the tourist industry dominates life here.
There are a number of attractions designed for tourists in Kissimmee, including dinner theaters themed around the Roaring Twenties and medieval times; lots of miniature golf courses; air-boat, helicopter and segway tours; and more recreational activities, such as go-carting and zip-lining.
But there is life in Kissimmee beyond the tourist attractions. The city's neighborhoods, parks and old-fashioned downtown area with shops and restaurants make it a comfortable place to live. Downtown Kissimmee is home to events designed for locals, including monthly food-truck events and a Kissimmee Valley Farmer's Market every Tuesday night.
Kissimmee started as a steamboat stop at the top of Lake Tohopekaliga, which is now known for its bass fishing and birdwatching. Residents like to stroll along a scenic walking path in Lakefront Park to see waterfowl, alligators and other wildlife.
Kissimmee's most famous neighbor is Walt Disney World, which is just northwest of the city, 30 minutes away. Orlando International Airport and downtown Orlando are also 30 min away.
On the western edge of Kissimmee is Celebration, an upscale residential community with a small-town feel, which was designed and built by Disney. Kissimmee's newer apartment complexes have lots of amenities and also appeal to residents.
Renting in Kissimmee
Apartments for rent in Kissimmee are reasonably priced, below the national average. Your money will go farther here than in some other parts of Florida .
Highlights of Kissimmee:
The Houston Astros: Houston's Major League Baseball team conducts spring training in Kissimmee, at Osceola County Stadium.
Disney Wilderness Preserve: The Nature Conservancy's 11,500-acre Disney Wilderness Preserve is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals.
The Loop and Loop West: This outdoor mall and movie theater complex is popular with residents.
Kissimmee Sports Arena: Newcomers are often surprised to learn that Kissimmee has a strong cowboy heritage; its earliest residents were cattle ranchers. Several times a month, rodeos are held at this arena.
The Osceola County Courthouse in Kissimmee is a local landmark. (Photo courtesy of e.) Toho Square in Kissimmee. (Photo courtesy of Visitor7.)
