Kissimmee

Just a stone's throw south of Orlando lies Kissimmee Florida, nestled on the northern edge of Lake Tohopekaliga. Historians have offered differing variations for the city's interesting name, but the overall consensus is that Kissimmee is a modern spelling of a tribal word. Spanish missions were established in the late 1600's for the purpose of converting the local Jororo and other native tribes to Christianity. One of these missions was called Atissimi, and sometimes referred to as Jizimi and Tisimi. A Spanish map from 1752 listed the city as Cacema, which in combination with past names has evolved into the modern name of Kissimmee. Today, the city of Kissimmee Florida is a popular base for a Florida vacation, with its convenient location close to the Walt Disney World Resort, Sea World Orlando, and Universal Studios.

The weather in Kissimmee Florida is pleasant, with an annual average temperature of 73 degrees. Shorts and t-shirts are the normal daytime attire here, and a good lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler nights means that packing heavy isn't necessary. Just make sure you bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes to help make trekking around to all the area attractions and shopping areas more comfortable. Warmer summer days often give way to brief afternoon showers, helping to keep the many great area Florida golf courses nice and green.

Various selections for area lodging include grand and budget Kissimmee hotels, Kissimmee river camping, cottages, and bed and breakfasts. And visitors will also find a nice array of Kissimmee restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to finger-licking good barbecue. Kissimmee restaurants have spots for that romantic dinner for two, or for that truly unique dining experience at a dinner show. Whether you are looking for Japanese cuisine, European delicacies, a juicy steak or just some coffee and doughnuts, you'll find Kissimmee restaurants will satisfy your taste.

Kissimmee is close to a number of lakes, swamps and rivers, making for recreation on the water a great addition to your Florida getaway. Florida tours often involve the water and if you've ever wanted to ride on, or even pilot an air boat, you can do that in Kissimmee Florida. The unspoiled scenery you'll encounter offers tranquility as you pass along centuries-old cypress trees, hanging spanish moss, beautiful water hyacinths and unique Florida wildlife. Strolls along area lake shores, and hikes through the woods also offer visitors a way to enjoy the natural sights and wildlife in and around Kissimmee Florida. Plenty of nature trails, preserves, parks and recreational paths make up an array of choices for those looking to go by foot. For more outdoor recreation, take the kids over to the Green Meadows petting farm where you'll find over 300 animals to touch and see, or to Horse World riding stables, set on 100's of acres perfect for enjoying fresh air and country relaxation. Head inside to enjoy the indoor tropical rainforest, orchids and exotic plants shop at the World of Orchids, or to the Reptile World Serpentarium, in nearby St. Cloud, where you can find 50-60 different species of snakes, and other reptiles like iguanas and alligators.

Make Kissimmee Florida your base for your upcoming Florida vacation. You're so close to Orlando and its magnificent theme parks, and you'll enjoy the shopping and dining options, museums and historical sights found in Kissimmee. See what life was like before at the Historical Society and Pioneer Museum, then bask in all there is to do here today. Various vacation packages for amusement parks, Kissimmee area attractions, or that great golf escape help you take advantage of all central Florida has to offer, so plan your trip now for that romantic getaway, or for that memorable family vacation.