Destination guides
Things to Do in Kissimmee Besides the Theme Parks
Rest-day and non-park ideas for groups staying in Kissimmee, Florida: Gatorland, Old Town, Lake Toho, airboat rides, springs, beaches and the Space Coast.
By the JekkyStay team · November 3, 2026
- Plan at least one non-park day; it keeps a long trip enjoyable for every age.
- Gatorland, airboat rides and Lake Tohopekaliga are close to Kissimmee.
- The Atlantic beaches and Kennedy Space Center are about an hour or more away.
- Disney Springs is free to enter for dining, shopping and evening walks.
Kissimmee is best known as the gateway to Walt Disney World, but a week of theme parks can wear out even the most excited group. Planning one or two days away from the parks keeps the trip fun for everyone. Here are the best options near Kissimmee and a little further afield.
Gatorland
Gatorland, on the road between Kissimmee and Orlando, has been showing visitors alligators and crocodiles for decades. There are shows, boardwalks over a breeding marsh and, for the brave, a zip line. It is smaller and calmer than the big parks, which suits a half-day.
Airboat rides and Lake Tohopekaliga
Lake Tohopekaliga, known locally as Lake Toho, sits right beside Kissimmee. Several operators run airboat tours on the lake and nearby wetlands, where you may see alligators, wading birds and bald eagles. Book ahead for a large group, and ask about ear protection for children.
Old Town and the lakefront
Old Town Kissimmee has shops, rides and regular classic car events. Downtown Kissimmee's lakefront park has walking paths and playgrounds by the water, which is a pleasant way to spend an evening.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs is Disney's dining and shopping district. It is free to enter, and walking it in the evening is an easy outing for a group that wants Disney atmosphere without a park ticket. Check parking information before you go.
Springs and wildlife
Central Florida's freshwater springs are some of its most beautiful places. Blue Spring State Park, about an hour or more north, is known for manatees in the cooler months. Check park conditions and capacity before you go, since popular parks can close to new visitors when full.
The Space Coast and beaches
The Atlantic coast is roughly an hour or more east. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex makes a full day for anyone interested in spaceflight, and if your dates line up, you may be able to watch a launch from the coast. Cocoa Beach is nearby for an afternoon on the sand.
A pool day at the house
Sometimes the best non-park day is the simplest one. A morning swim, a long lunch and an afternoon nap are what tired children and grandparents often need halfway through the week.
Tips for planning
- Put the non-park day in the middle of the trip.
- Plan outdoor activities for mornings in summer and pack rain gear for afternoon storms.
- Book airboat rides and popular tours ahead for a large group.
Where to stay
Our six-bedroom Kissimmee House keeps the whole group together with room to rest. See the Kissimmee destination page and our guide to planning a Disney trip with a large family. For celebrations, see our group getaways page.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Kissimmee that is not a theme park?
Gatorland, airboat rides on the lakes, Old Town Kissimmee, the Kissimmee lakefront and Disney Springs are all popular. Further away, the beaches and Kennedy Space Center make full-day trips.
Can you see manatees near Kissimmee?
In the cooler months, manatees gather at some of Central Florida's springs, such as Blue Spring State Park. Check the park's website for current viewing conditions.
How far is the beach from Kissimmee?
The nearest Atlantic beaches, such as Cocoa Beach, are roughly an hour or more by car depending on traffic.
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