3 Off the Beaten Path Attractions Near Kissimmee

With attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and LEGOLAND, it’s no wonder that Kissimmee is one of the leading destinations for families. But what happens when you need a break from the theme parks? What does Kissimmee have to offer beyond the thrills? Lucky for you, I’m able to answer that question. I’ve visited Kissimmee with my family more than a handful of times, and though we always give the parks some attention, we’ve found a few quieter attractions to enjoy too.

Off the Beaten Path Attractions near Kissimmee

1. Lake Kissimmee State Park

If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ll enjoy a trip to Lake Kissimmee State Park. Located about 15 miles east of Lake Wales, this state park is an easy drive from Kissimmee. Visitors can boat, canoe, fish, geocache, hike, and camp. Segway tours are available through the park with advance reservations.

If you visit during the winter, you can travel a short trail that transports you to 1876 at the site of a frontier camp along a cattle drive. You’ll find a Florida Cow Hunter resting or tending to his herd who may invite for to stick around for a few stories. Learn why Florida is called the Lightning Strike Capital of the World.

2. Showcase of Citrus

When you’re from the North, you can’t visit Florida and not visit a citrus grove. The 2500-acre family estate grows 50+ variety of citrus, blueberries, blackberries, and grapes. A Farm & Country Store sells local jellies, jams, marmalades, sauces, boiled peanuts, alligator meat, souvenirs and more.

Farm animals are on site to pet, photo ops are plentiful, and visitors can go on a Swamp Safari in the World’s Largest 4 X 4 Monster Truck. You can spend an hour or an entire afternoon. You decide.

3. Boggy Creek Airboat Rides

If you want to get off the beaten path and see things from another perspective, hop on an airboat. Boggy Creek Airboat captains will take you through Central Florida’s wetlands where you’ll see plenty of birds, turtles, and hopefully some gators. Few people realize that the headwaters to the Florida Everglades start in Orlando. This family-owned business provides two locations and several tours to choose from, including a sunset and nighttime tour.