Downtown Kissimmee has several popular restaurants and bars.

Recently named as one of the 55 Best 55+ Communities by 55places.com, Solivita and its 5,900 homes present residents with a complex of amenities and scenic grounds, some of the property’s biggest selling points. With that, homeowners in Solivita also get to enjoy living in Kissimmee and everything that comes with it.

Central Florida is often dominated by Orlando and its acres of theme parks. However, just south of Orlando in Osceola County, Kissimmee offers a variety of recreational opportunities that don’t include roller coasters or Disney characters. Enjoy some of the lakes and parks in the area, take a boat or helicopter tour, or get to know the local food flavors. And, if you need your Space Mountain fix, Orlando is about half an hour away.

Seek Inner Peace at Wat Florida Dhammaram

One of the most unique Kissimmee destinations for residents and visitors is Wat Florida Dhammaram, a large Buddhist temple with gorgeous buildings and an inner peace vibe that’s hard to ignore. It’s a working temple that invites people of all faiths or no faith to observe and participate in the daily meditation and chanting practices that are the base for the world’s fifth-largest religion. The shrines here are replicas of India’s most sacred Buddhist sites.

Kissimmee Parks and Preserves

Kayaking down Shingle creek is a favorite activity among locals.

Nature and wildlife are a big part of Kissimmee. Shingle Creek Regional Trail covers a diverse collection of habitats along the shores of Lake Tohopekaliga. Cyclers, hikers, bird watchers, and water lovers can spend a day enjoying the outdoors in Kissimmee under the shady protection of pine and oak trees. The Reedy Creek Swamp at Osceola Schools Environmental Study Center has a boardwalk from which visitors can watch alligators and shorebirds. There’s an interpretive center, along with a selection of trails that range in length from half a mile to more than five miles. The Kissimmee Lakefront Park is also an ideal spot for a walk or a sunset.

Take a Tour by Air or by Boat

Take a closer look at the wetlands on an airboat tour. With local companies like Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Rides, Airboat Adventure & More, or Marsh Landing Adventures, you can take a ride through the area's protected nautical areas. Tours offered include 30-minute or 60-minute options. As you cruise through tall grass and cypress swamps you’ll see alligators, turtles, and other wildlife. Visitors who prefer to be airborne might like a helicopter tour. Get an aerial look at central Florida with a 10-mile trip, or choose a night tour for a look at the lights.

World Class Golf Courses

The area is home to several championship golf courses.

Florida has always been a great place to golf and Kissimmee knows how to keep up with the rest of the state when it comes to manicured fairways and complex courses. Falcon’s Fire Golf Club was designed by Rees Jones and offers tournaments, classes, and one of the finest public golf course experiences in central Florida. Orange Lake Golf has 54 holes, including an 18-hole course designed by Arnold Palmer. Cypress trees provide a scenic perimeter and golfers often find themselves sharing the green with majestic sandhill cranes.

Hit the Town for a Night Out

Kissimmee is a fun spot for date night or an evening out with friends. If you enjoy dancing don’t miss Salsa Latina Night Club, which has a DJ spinning the latest salsa hits. Vintage Vino is all about wine, cheese, and craft beer. Enjoy happy hour and the ambiance of a Tuscan vineyard. Breeze Whiskey Lounge is in downtown Kissimmee and has live entertainment as well as indoor and outdoor seating.