Kissimmee may be regarded as a city in the US, but it’s not a city in the true sense of the term. Although it has the usual trappings of a city with the Historic Downtown at its core, and a wide range of shops and restaurants, the city is more of a family-oriented destination. Given its proximity to world-famous theme parks and Florida Everglades, many visitors use Kissimmee as a base. Not surprisingly, you’ll find plenty of hotels in Kissimmee, Florida. Many of these hotels line the network of multilane highways between Orlando and Kissimmee.
Not many people are aware of the lush landscapes that surround Kissimmee. Theme parks aside, you’ll find plenty of outdoor adventures to keep you busy. The adventurous can explore the Everglades from a hot air balloon or zip through the treetops whilst the history buffs can soak up the history of downtown. There is a constant stream of visitors into Kissimmee because of its proximity to some of the best amusement parks in the world.
Orlando is about a 30-minute drive from Kissimmee so many visitors also opt to stay in Orlando. If you are planning to visit Kissimmee from Orlando, you’ll find some of the best hotel pools in Orlando for a relaxing time. Alternatively, you could get the best of both worlds; enjoy Kissimmee and also explore the things to do in Orlando. Or better still, ditch the crowds at Orlando and drive over to Busch Gardens in Tampa. The beaches of Clearwater are not too far away either. If you do decide on either location, you’ll find enough hotels in Clearwater or hotels in Tampa to choose from.
Where to Stay in Kissimmee
There are many hotels in Kissimmee and where you decide to stay will depend on what you’re in the city for. If you’re interested in exploring the city then you’ll probably want to be close to the historic downtown area. You’ll find many shops, restaurants, and special events that cater to a variety of tastes along Kissimmee’s Main Street.
For those wanting to be close to Universal Orlando Resort or SeaWorld Orlando Resort, there is no dearth of hotels on this stretch. From the best hotels in Kissimmee, Florida to vacation rentals, you’ll find a wide variety of accommodations to suit your budget and style. Whether you prefer a vacation home or a resort with multiple facilities, there are more than enough in the area for the picking.
Many visitors to Kissimmee also prefer to stay in Lake Buena Vista or Bay Lake, the official areas of Walt Disney World Resort, or head to Davenport which is also nearby. There is also a wide variety of campgrounds and RV Parks for those who prefer to bunk down in the lap of nature.
Encantada – The Official CLC World Resort
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For those looking for bigger spaces at a lower rate, Encantada – The Official CLC World Resort is a perfect choice. Just adjacent to Orlando and outside of Walt Disney World, this resort stands out among the hotels in Kissimmee, Florida for its great accommodation. You can enjoy some fantastic accommodations and open spaces without the outrageous prices.
Shuttle services can be arranged from the clubhouse to the theme parks. While Disney World is just nearby, the other Disney properties are about 4 miles from here while Universal and SeaWorld are further away. You’ll also find some great dinner shows and restaurants nearby.
It’s all about space at the resort with beautiful vacation townhomes to choose from. It’s a great option for bigger families as you get to choose between 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom townhomes rather than trying to space yourself out in a standard hotel room or suite. Townhomes are stylish and comfortable. All come with fully-equipped kitchens and a private covered patio with a Jacuzzi tub. You’ll find everything in the home for a comfortable stay.
Outdoors there are two pools to choose from, a zero-entry pool and a pool with Jacuzzi. You’ll find plenty of loungers poolside to relax in. The Encantada Resort Clubhouse has a restaurant, Romy’s which serves all meals plus snacks and drinks.
Galleria Palms Hotel
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Situated in the heart of Kissimmee, the Galleria Palms Hotel is one of the most conveniently located hotels in Kissimmee, Florida. It’s also one of the more affordable options. You’ll find several restaurants in the vicinity of the hotel which is just a five-minute drive from the entrance of Disney World. There’s also a free shuttle service to the other Disney theme parks from the hotel.
You won’t find many outstanding features at this hotel but what you will find are clean, comfortable rooms with a host of comforts. The well-kept grounds with palm trees and tropical plants also add a nice touch. A heated outdoor swimming pool and a small fitness center are other amenities that you can look forward to. There’s also a complimentary breakfast for guests. While you won’t find a restaurant on-site, there are enough dining options within walking distance of the hotel.
Holiday Inn Club Vacations At Orange Lake Resort
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If you’re looking for a change of pace from the theme parks but with extra perks, Holiday Inn Club Vacations ticks the right boxes. This sprawling time-share property is just a 12-minute drive from Disney World so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. With its lakefront location and vast grounds covered with trees, you’ll feel like you’re in an altogether different space.
The Orange Lake resort is divided into four large sections, North, East, and West Village and River Island. Guests can choose from one, two, and three-bedroom units that are outfitted with appliances and equipment for a comfortable stay. Villas in the West Village have recently undergone renovations so you’ll find some additional features here.
Apart from the spacious accommodations, the resort has a boggling array of activities and amenities to choose from. Seven outdoor pools, a lazy river, waterslide, and a hot tub make up the pool complex. While guests have free access to the pools there is a fee for the inner tubes and water slide. Guests can also enjoy a variety of water sports on Raccoon Lake. Two fitness centers, a large number of sports activities including a climbing wall, four golf courses, and three games arcades keep families busy. It’s no surprise that the resort also has a wide range of dining options with eight dining venues to choose from.
Magic Moment Resort
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Magic Moment Resort is conveniently located from all major Walt Disney World theme parks on the West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway. Guests can use the resort’s complimentary transportation to Epcot to transfer to other Disney locations. Old Town is less than a mile away so if you’re interested in exploring downtown Kissimmee this is a great base.
An elegant lobby greets guests to the hotel. Guests can choose from a wide range of rooms, including Kids Rooms. You can look forward to tastefully done up, spacious rooms at the property, some which look out on the garden or pool area. All rooms feature standard amenities such as Keurig coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges.
A colorful play area for kids, a game room, a well-equipped gym, and a tranquil courtyard are what you can look forward to here. You’ll also find an outdoor pool with a sundeck and cabanas. The resort fee includes a continental breakfast, WiFi, and parking.
Legacy Vacation Resorts
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Legacy Vacation Resorts is one of the more popular family hotels in Kissimmee, Florida, given its proximity to the theme parks. It’s not just the theme parks that pique the interest but the resort itself with its wide range of amenities. Also, it’s in proximity to many family-friendly restaurants and a Walmart. For those wanting to hit the greens, Falcon’s Fire Golf Course is also nearby.
You can choose from a variety of room types that range from two-bed guest rooms to two-bedroom deluxe rooms that feature a full kitchen. The rooms are clean and comfortable and outfitted with modern conveniences, but there’s nothing too great about them. Some rooms have undergone a recent renovation and are more updated than others.
Outside the rooms, there is a wide range of activities to choose from. With four uniquely different pools, three hot tubs, nine-hole mini-golf course, tennis courts, and lots more, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. For something to eat or drink head to the newly renovated Tony’s Bar & Grill. There’s also access to the eatery from the pool. Alternatively, you could also order beverages from the poolside bar.
When you’re done with all the activities and a workout at the fitness center you can enjoy a sauna or request a massage in your room.
Star Island Resort and Club
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Finding family-friendly hotels in Kissimmee, Florida is a piece of cake with a large number of resorts in the area. Just four miles from Disney’s Magic Kingdom in a gated community, you’ll find Star Island Resort and Club. The resort enjoys an enviable location adjacent to two lakes and surrounded by tropical landscaping. It’s about seven minutes by car to Old Town where you’ll find some interesting attractions.
With its stockpile of amenities, the resort feels like a destination in itself. The expansive pool area is where you’ll find all the action with DJ music, a brand new pool bar, and a tiki bar. Guests can choose from a wide range of suites that include two-three bedroom villas, mini-suites, and deluxe one-bedrooms. Suites include full kitchens or kitchenettes along with a wide range of amenities. All suites come with flat-screen cable TVs and Sealy Posturepedic beds whilst some have additional perks such as whirlpool tubs and private patio/balcony.
There’s plenty to keep you occupied outside the suites with a spa and fitness center, basketball, tennis, volleyball and miniature golf, to name a few. The Pool Bar and upstairs Star Bar offer some great entertainment as well as a wide assortment of drinks and bites. Although you won’t find a full-service restaurant here, there are frequent dinner nights at the Star Bar. There’s also a Deli & Marketplace for other food options.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Lake Buena Vista South
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Many hotels in Kissimmee, Florida also cater to business travelers so it isn’t too hard to find a convenient meeting hotel like the Embassy Suites by Hilton. Located in a quiet area of Lake Buena Vista, the newest Embassy Suites in the Kissimmee and Orlando area features a large meeting and outdoor patio space. The hotel puts you in proximity to Walt Disney World Theme Parks. Guests who’d prefer to keep their vehicles at the hotel can use the free shuttle service to Epcot. From here, the Disney theme parks are easily accessible.
This all-suite property has two-room suites that feature kitchenettes and several kitchen appliances. The spacious rooms are pleasant and clean and come with one king or two queen beds. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos, toiletries, and ample counter space. Depending on your budget and level of comfort you can choose from various categories of suites.
One of the best things about the Embassy Suites is that guests enjoy free made to order breakfast. There’s also a complimentary evening reception for guests featuring complimentary small plate and drink options. Kyngs Grille, the onsite restaurant serves a selection of classic American favorites whilst you can enjoy a wide selection of appetizers and a cocktail at the Oasis Lounge. For grab and go options The Marketplace is convenient. An outdoor pool, fitness center and business center are also available to guests.
Margaritaville Resort Orlando
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Spread out over 300 acres on Kissimmee’s Highway 192, Margaritaville Resort is a dramatic space. One of the best hotels in Kissimmee, Florida for a great vacation, Margaritaville is a destination on its own. If you’ve had your fill of the theme parks it’s an excellent place to unwind with its vast range of amenities. However, guests interested in venturing out can use the complimentary transportation to Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld.
This island-inspired escape offers high-end accommodations that range from modern guest rooms to spacious suites and private cottages. Floor to ceiling windows looking out on the lush surroundings, high-end furnishings, private balconies, and modern amenities enhance your stay here. The expansive, landscaped lagoon pools create a Caribbean vibe. For those wanting a more tranquil space, the premium cottages offer the seclusion of beachfront property. Cottages are equipped with full kitchens, dining and living areas, and spa-style bathrooms. Some units are pet-friendly while others come with private pools and spas.
You’ll run out of time before you run out of things to do at the resort. The attention to detail is tremendous with a range of activities that also includes a shopping area, Sunset Walk. The only thing missing at this space is a golf course and tennis courts, but you’ll only feel this lack if you’re nitpicking! A water park, fitness club, kids club, two pools, and a 12-screen dine-in cinema are just some of the activities you can start with. When it comes to dining spaces, you’ll be gob-smacked with the vast range of dining options on offer. You can begin your gastronomic exploration from the Promenade at Sunset Walk with its mind-boggling choices. If this space doesn’t satisfy you, feast your way through the numerous other eateries on site. The resort is like a mini-town with its vast space and amenities to match!
Polynesian Isles Resort
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Just minutes from Orlando’s theme parks, shopping and dining you’ll find the Polynesian Isles Resort. In keeping with its South Pacific Heritage name, the hotel exudes a tropical vibe right from the thatched awning to the beach-inspired furniture in the lobby.
Guest accommodations range between one and two-bedroom villas. Units come well equipped with amenities such as full kitchens, two full baths with selected toiletries, flat-screen TVs in the living room and bedrooms, and free WiFi. You’ll also find a screened patio/balcony where you can enjoy the Florida sun.
Although there are no onsite dining options, restaurants are within a 10-minute drive from here. Guests can also opt to dine in at the villa. Outside the villa, you’ll find two outdoor pools, four hot tubs, tennis and basketball courts, a clubhouse, fitness center, and a putting green. If that isn’t enough to keep you occupied there’s also a playground and board games.
Reunion Resort
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Offering the ultimate vacation space, the sprawling Reunion Resort is one of the best hotels in Kissimmee, Florida for families and anyone else looking for a spacious stay. It’s the ideal set up for families who want to spend some quality time or groups. The resort has something for everyone and that’s one reason why it’s used for weddings, corporate retreats, and golf reunions. Spread over 2,200 acres just east of Interstate 4, it’s about a 15-20 minute drive to Walt Disney World from here. A good selection of restaurants is about 10 minutes away. You’re more or less cut off from the outside due to the golf courses that provide a peaceful buffer.
The main building, an 11-story tower stands out among the greens. Guests can choose from a wide range of accommodations that are unlike a regular hotel. Luxury one-two and three-bedroom villas and multi-bedroom vacation rental homes make up the accommodation here. The homes have everything that you would look for in a comfortable space. Many homes also feature private swimming pools, game rooms, and their own putting green.
If you can tear yourself away from this comfortable retreat, there’s plenty to explore outdoors. You can join a yoga class or get pampered at the spa or refresh your skills at the tennis court. Take a meandering bike ride around the beautiful property or get your adrenaline pumping as you race down a water slide. Those looking to relax poolside will find several pools scattered around the property. From eight community pools to a rooftop pool and club pools, if it’s the water you want, you’ll find plenty of it here. Dining options are also in plenty, with seven onsite dining venues, including the popular Eleven Restaurant.
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
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With so many excellent hotels in Kissimmee, Florida, choosing the best place to stay can be a little confusing. However, if you choose the luxurious Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center you can’t go wrong. Given its wide range of amenities, this multi-faceted resort will appeal to all kinds of travelers. Its location just outside Walt Disney World gives you easy access to the park although nothing is within walking distance.
The soaring glass atrium showcasing Florida’s top attractions and a large variety of plants is an enchanting space. Many guest rooms have balconies that overlook the atrium. Spacious guest rooms are delightful, to say the least, with a soothing gold, white and blue palette. Predictably you’ll find them well stocked with modern comforts.
Your choice for dining is mind-boggling with multiple onsite restaurants to choose from. If your favorite game is keeping you glued to the screen inside your room, head out to Wreckers Sports Bar so you don’t miss it. Whether its fresh seafood or a refreshing salad that you want, you’ll find it all under one roof. Other amenities that you can look forward to at the hotel are an excellent spa, a large fitness center, shopping arcade, and a water park. There’s also a separate adult pool for those that prefer a tranquil space.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Kissimmee, Florida:
- Woodsby’s Countryside Cafe – Located on the South Orange Blossom Trail, this is one of the best places to enjoy a sumptuous break. The motto here is to serve ‘good food and plenty of it’ so you can be sure that you’re going to get plenty to enjoy here.
- Drafts Sports Bar & Grill – Located at Westgate Resorts, this bar and grill are open for lunch and dinner. This popular restaurant is a fusion of brewpubs and gourmet burger bars. You can enjoy a variety of creatively designed burgers and appetizers, complemented by an extensive selection of draft and bottled beers and other drinks.
- Eleven – This stunning steakhouse is located on the 11th floor of the Reunion Resort. Renowned for its mouth-watering farm-to-table fare with premium steak cuts. Post dinner, the gorgeous rooftop patio is a great place to enjoy Magic Kingdom’s firework display as you sip on handcrafted cocktails.
Recommended Activities In Kissimmee, Florida:
- Airboat Everglades Adventure Tour – Speed across the swamps of Central Florida and marvel at some of the wildlife that inhabits the area. Explore the largest living estuary in the world at Shingle Creek on this one hour.
- Old Town – Take a step back in time at this recreated classic Florida Town. It’s an excellent place for a family day out, with shopping, live entertainment, and rides. It also has an iconic Ferris Wheel that towers along Highway 192. It may not be one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the World but at 86 feet, it’s still a thrill!
- Gatorland – If you have a fascination for alligators and crocodiles, Gatorland between Orlando and Kissimmee should be on your list of things to do. Apart from the displays and petting zoo, you’ll also get to experience one of a kind reptilian shows.
