FLORIDA LAKESIDE VILLAS

The villa on the Lake

Florida Lakeside Villas... The Villa on the Lake.
Florida Lakeside Villas - Orlando Information

Kissimmee

Kissimme, orlando Florida Kissimmee is a modern spelling of a tribal word originating from Florida Indians, 'Jororo', one of Florida's lesser-known tribes.From theme parks to bass fishing, Kissimmee has something for every member of the family.Historic Downtown Kissimmee,unique shops,and numerous Parks and recreational areas.Florida has a great climate, it is not the Sunshine State for nothing. 

                           Nature Tours and Sightseeing.

Photograph native Florida wildlife that can only be viewed from an airboat. Saddle up for adventure on a trail ride across a cattle ranch. Or have your picture made with an alligator. You can even pick your own oranges at local citrus groves. Exploring the real Florida just comes natural in Kissimmee. We have tried to list as many varied activities as possible, but there are so many to choose from.
You can check out the Weather in Kissimmee by clicking on the weather  map  to the left.    

Glades Adventures High Performance Airboat Tours

4715 Kissimmee Park Rd.
St. Cloud, FL, 34772
 407-891-2222            

Big Toho Airboat Rides

1880 Queens Ct.
 Kissimmee, FL, 34744
321-624-2398

Boggy  Creek Airboat    &  Wildlife Safari Rides
2001 E. Southport Rd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-344-9550

 Airboat Rentals You Drive

6266 W. Hwy 192
Kissimmee, FL 34741
407-847-3672

Green Meadows   Petting Farm

 1368 S. Poinciana Blvd.
 Kissimmee, FL, 34746
 407-846-0770

Pirate's Island Adventure Golf

4330 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-396-4660

Congo River Golf

Florida Resident Deal4777 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-396-6900

Historic Downtown Kissimmee
P.O. Box 420002
Kissimmee, FL, 34741
407-870-9581

Kissimmee Lakefront Park
250 Lakeshore Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34741
407-518-2501
Osceola Flea & Farmers Market
2801 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34744
407-846-2811 Full Speed Race & Golf
5720 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-397-7455
Warbird Adventures, Inc.
233 N. Hoagland Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34741
407-870-7366
Osceola County Schools Environmental Study Center
4300 Poinciana Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34758
407-870-0551

Horse World Riding Stables, Inc.

3705 S. Poinciana Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34758
407-847-4343

Rivership Romance

433 N. Palmetto Ave., Monroe Harbor Marina
Sanford, FL, 32771
407-321-5091

Magic Kingdom

Disney Magic Kingdom

One of the favourite places to visit. It is the place for children..... of all ages. Magic Kingdom is probably the most visited Theme Park in Florida. This is one of our favourites.
Our recommended attractions are Mickey's PhilharMagica, a beautiful show,Space Mountain for the thrill seekers,Pirates of the Caribean, recently upgraded to reflect the new films, with Captain Jack Sparrow. Don't forget the fireworks, 'Wishes'.
NEW Fantasyland 2012. Click here for details
Official web site link to Magic Kingdom     
HERE

Holywood Studios

Disney MGM Studios

Holywood Studios This Park offers many favourites. Dare you ride the Tower of Terror?,  or maybe the amazing ride a favourite of our family Rock 'n' Roller coaster, a must if you love a fast ride. Or maybe a show we love Fantasmic, and also Beauty and the Beast. ** Don't miss Lights , Motors, Action a fantastic stunt show with loads of surprises.
Official web site link to Holywood Studios    HERE

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens

Where the unexpected comes together, some great ticket offers with 2nd visit free. Plenty of rides and Animals here.  
Official web site link to
  Busch Gardens  HERE


Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove

A fantastic experience that is what we thought. It is a great day and worth the money. Although you don't spend too long with 'your' Dolphin, Discovery Cove has so much more to offer. There is a great reef to snorkel on, a fresh water pool, everything is supplied. The food is very good as well and included. You can walk among rays, swim with the fish and bring home a DVD to remember the day. (Tickets only available direct from Discovery Cove web site)  Tip -  you must book well in advance
Official web site link to Discovery Cove   HERE
 

WET 'N' WILD

Wet 'n' Wild

Universal water Park, on International Drive, loads of rides including The Storm, Kids park, Disco H20, and Bomb Bay...a 76' high almost vertical drop!!!  
 Official web site link to
 WET N WILD  HERE 


TYPHOON LAGOON.

Typhoon Lagoon
The other water Park, again loads of rides, also the based on a furious storm theme. Great rides, twisting slides, fast vertical shutes,again for everyone.Ketchakiddee,Creek for the small children
Official web site link to Typhoon Lagoon   HERE

Kissimmee Oaks Golf Club
1500 The Oaks Blvd.
 Kissimmee, FL, 34746
 407-933-4055
Website

Ginn Reunion Resort Golf Course
1000 Reunion Way
Kissimmee, FL, 34747
407-662-1000

Boating & Fishing
A #1 Bass Guide Service
4020 Citrus St.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
Alligator Chain of Lakes
East Osceola County
St. Cloud, FL, 34769
408-846-5300
Lake Toho Tackle.com Fishing Guide Service - Fresh & Salt Water Charters
1879 Kings Point Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34744
407-928-2529

Sunset Sam's Fish Camp
6000 W. Osceola Pkwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-586-1101
Waffle House
7696 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-397-9550
Bennigan's
5877 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34747
407-390-0687
Website

Pizza Hut
5740 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-396-2207
Website

Cracker Barrel
7878 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34747
407-390-1190
Website

Blue Spring State Park.
Named Florida's best manatee observation point. Blue Spring produces 105 million gallons of crystal clear water a day. Fishing, canoe and kayak rentals, picnic areas, scuba diving, swimming, camping, nature trails and the historic Thursby House. A designated manatee refuge, Blue Spring is visited by numerous West Indian manatees during the winter months. (Best avoid weekends and holidays - very crowded then)
Directions: I-4 W. to Exit 114 in Deland. West to U.S. 17, south to French Ave. in Orange City. West on French Ave. to Park Entrance.
2100 W. French Ave.
Orange City, FL 32763
Tel: 386-775-3663.

Moss Park, (close to Orlando International Airport)
Moss Park offers 1,551 acres of recreational facilities. The park provides two boat ramps, two playgrounds, pavilions, swimming facilities, lake-side beach, ball fields, campsites, hiking trails, picnic areas with grilles, recreations programs, RV campsites, and volleyball courts. The area is open to the public from 8 a.m. To 8 p.m. Admission is $1 per person. Campsites are $10 for Orange County Residents and $15 for the general public. There are discounts for Senior Citizens. Pavilions can be reserved for $50 per day for up to 100 people. The park is located off the 417 Greeneway at SR 15, on Moss Park Rd., 4 miles Southeast of Narcoossee Road
12901 Moss Park Road Orlando, Fla. 32832.
 Tel: (407) 273-2327.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Boardwalk: A 2.25-mile raised boardwalk takes visitors through four distinct environments: a pine upland, a wet prairie, a cypress forest, and a marsh. Interpretive signs along the boardwalk and a field guide and Children's Activity Book available at the admissions desk in the Blair Center allow each visitor to take the self-guided tour. Benches and rain shelters are along the trail. For those who do not wish to walk the full 2.25 miles, an optional trail shortens the walk to one mile. Volunteer naturalists are usually on the boardwalk to answer questions. Allow about 2-3 hours.
 Wildlife: Wildlife sightings vary depending on the time of year, the weather, and even the time of day. Birds, reptiles, mammals, insects, and a variety of native plants including wild orchids may be seen from the boardwalk. Due to natural predators such as mosquito fish and dragonflies, mosquitos are not a great nuisance in the swamp. Directions: It is at the end of Sanctuary Road West, north of Immokalee Road (County Road 846), approximately 15 miles east from Exit 111 on I-75. Visible, brown informational signs along Immokalee Road assist in finding the Sanctuary. Do NOT take Exit 123 (Corkscrew Road) which does not connect!
located northeast of Naples, Florida, in Collier County. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, 375 Sanctuary Road. West Naples, FL 34120.
 Tele: 239-348-9151.

The Mall at Millenia
Is now open bringing high-end fashion retailing to Orlando, Florida - one of the nation's most active housing markets and America's busiest tourist destination. Anchored by new-to-the-market Bloomingdale's, Nieman-Marcus and Macy's, the center is convenient to the area's most affluent residential communities upscale hotels and top visitor attractions.
 4200 Conroy Road
 Orlando, FL 32839  


192 Flea Market
Over 400 dealer booths under one roof with savings of between 45%-75%. Open 7 days a week from 9 AM- 6 PM. Located at mile marker 15 on hwy 192(4301 W Vine St. Kissimmee).


Epcot 

Disney Epcot
This is another one of our favourites. Not one of the largest Theme Parks, but plenty of interesting facts, and rides, combine with an educational slant. Make sure you stop off at the free drink tasting and sample some of the drinks from around the World.Rides include illumiNations a great ride through History of Man, Honey I shrunk the Audience, or ride including Test Track, a high speed ride. or Mision Space a flight to Mars, etc.The fireworks are amazing. Make sure you get your viewing area early. A good tip is to book a meal at one of the many restaurants which overlook the Lake. You will then be assured of a great view.
Official web site link to  Epcot       HERE


DownTown Disney
Disney Downtown Disney
A lively area during the day, but it really comes alive sat night.Entertainment include Cirque du Soleil@ ,a dazzling acrobatic show, Dining at the Planet Hollywood@, Rainforest Cafe@, etc.A great area to explore, fantastic shopping, play area for children including lego@ area. We love a stroll round here and take in the atmosphere.
Official web site link to Downtown Disney  HERE

Islands of Adventure
Islands of Adventure
Journey through five magical islands, rides include.Duelling Dragons, Cat in the Hat, Incredible Hulk. Our favourites, Spiderman, Jurrasic Park, you WILL get WET!, Dudley do-Right Ripsaw falls, wet again,myths, cartoon characters,comic book heroes, something for all. We love it!. Rides for old and young children.
Don't forget Harry Potter  the great new experience in I.O.A                                        
Official web site link to Islands of Adventure   HERE


Kennedy Space Centre
Kennedy Space Centre
Just 45 minutes away.The Space centre is a great day out. You can tour the launch areas, meet an astronaut, see the rockets,train in simulators and maybe see a launch. To see an upcoming launch you have to book early and be aware they can be delayed due to adverse  weather conditions. We have seen a launch and they are not to be missed. You can of course see them from a distance. I have seen a launch from within Blizzard Beach. We also saw the rocket and vapour trail from the Villa.  Look over the Conservation towards the East when they go up!!
Official web site link to  Kennedy Space Centre   HERE


ChampionsGate Golf Club
1400 Masters Blvd.
 Champions Gate, FL, 33896
 407-787GOLF

Remington Golf Course
2995 Remington Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34744
407-344-4004
Orange Lake Resort & Country Club
8505 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
 Kissimmee, FL, 34747
 407-239-0000

A+Tom and Jerrys Charters-Florida
1780 King Charles Dr.
Kissimmee, FL, 34744
321-689-8918
Lake Kissimmee
Kissimmee, FL
407-846-5300
Dining
Boston Lobster Feast
6071 W. Irlo Bronson Memeorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-396-2606
Captain Nemo's All You Can East Seafood Feast
5469 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-239-7729

Outback Steakhouse
3109 W. Vine St.
Kissimmee, FL, 34741
407-931-0033
Olive Garden
5021 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34747
407-396-1680
One of our favourite Italian Restaurants
Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction
3081 Arabian Nights Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34747
407-239-9223
Website


Wendy's
4755 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-787-3577
Website

Outdoors & Nature
Rock Springs Run Reserve State Park.
Rock Springs Run State Reserve is approximately 14,000 acres of a variety of plant communities typically found throughout Central Florida's landscape. The reserve is located approximately 30 miles north of Orlando and easily located off of I-4 at the exit for S.R. 46; then follow S.R. 46 west for almost 10 miles. The property was purchased in March 1983 for habitat preservation, for watershed protection and to provide recreational opportunities in the Central Florida area. Directions: Off S.R. 46, 3 mi. W of Wekiwa River Bridge
Off State Road 46 (at entrance to County Road 433; County Road 433 not marked) Sorrento, FL32776 Tel: 407-884-2008.

Bok Sanctuary.
A place of tranquility in beautiful surroundings. Bok Sanctuary is a mix of gardens (full of azaleas and camelias in the early Spring), peaceful woodland walks, surprising views (the highest point in Florida), mirror-like lakes, beautiful birds, a coral pink tower from which a carrillon of bells plays music hourly and a live recital at 1pm and 3pm each day - with the shade of centuries-old live oak trees to enjoy the music under. We have been back many times and it is always ‘new’. They have frequent ‘special events’, outdoor concerts, exhibitions and displays. Call ahead to check what’s on or go to:
Directions from I-4, East or West: Take Exit 55 and proceed south on U.S. Highway 27 for approximately 23 miles. Proceed two traffic lights past Eagle Ridge Mall. Turn left on Mountain Lake Cut Off Road. At the caution light, turn right (south) onto County Road 17 (also known as Scenic Highway). Proceed on CR 17 for 3/4 miles. Turn left (east) onto Burns Avenue (also known as County Road 17-A). Proceed on Burns Avenue for 1.3 miles. On your left you’ll see a main entrance sign to Historic Bok Sanctuary. Turn left for the entrance gate.
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales,
 FL 33853.
 Tel: 863.676.1408.

Shopping
Florida Mall
270 stores in one mall! Very popular with locals and tourist.   Fabulous fashion. Exceptional eateries. Delightful diversions. That's what shoppers find at Orlando's fabulous fashion destination... Florida Mall. Conveniently located just minutes from Orlando International Airport, International Drive, Walt Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal Studios, Florida Mall is on the corner of South Orange Blossom Trail and Sand Lake Road in Orlando, Florida.


Lake Buena Vista Factory Shops
Located just over a mile from Walt Disney World.
Your favorite designers and name brands at incredible savings everyday, a delicious food court, and our exciting events make Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores a shopper's paradise.
LBV Store Director


Orlando Premium Outlets
Stroll through their mediterranean style village that offers a large collection of designer brands at great savings of 25% -65% off every day. 110 stores featuring AG Adriano Goldschmied, Burberry, Coach, Diesel, Dior and , Giorgio Armani, Lucky Brand Blue Jeans,Fendi, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo and more.


Flee Markets
Maingate Flea Market
The only fully air conditioned indoor flea market with over 400 wholesale booths.Located at mile marker 10 on hwy 192(5407 W.Irlo Bronson Kissimmee)


Animal Kingdom
Disney Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom. This is also a fantastic Park. Try and arrive early as the heat gets too much for the animals as well as us! There are plenty of water themed rides to get you soaked to cool off.New rides include Expedition Everest, we loved it!. Kilimanjaro Safari,, cool off on Kali river Rapids, or enjoy the beautiful show, Festival of the Lion King. All this a s well as the animals, birds, reptiles, and off course the parade.
Official web site link to Animal Kingdom   HERE



Universal Studios
Universal Studios
Universal is sometimes missed by DISNEY lovers. It is a great place with rides for any age. Favourites include, Revenge of the Mummy, Men in Black, ET Adventure, Twister, Terminator, and of course Jaws.! . Some great shows take you behind the screens, see characters like Popeye in the Streets which take you back to those Romantic fil days. Plenty to do and can be combined with time spent in Islands of Adventure nearby. 
Official web site link to  Universal     HERE 


SeaWorld
SeaWorld
We love SeaWorld, not a large Park so can easily be combined with another.Boasts at being the Worlds premiere Marine adventure Park. Get close up with an array of marine life, from penguins, Dolphins, sharks, fish, rays,plus some fantastic rides, Journey to Atlantic,yes..wet again. Kraken,Orlandos only floorless coaster, Wild Artic, and another favourite show Odyssea (dont miss this!). Have I forget any ?....... oh yes of course the amazing Shamu show.! 
Official web site link to SeaWorld   HERE



BLIZZARD BEACH
Blizzard Beach
Yes, snow did come to Florida and left a carpet of snow covered Mountains. A great day to swim, lazy river, water slides, too many to list. Just make sure you go. The children will love it. Caters for children from tots to wrinklies!. Its hard to choose between DISNEY' s water Parks.Why not visit them both and you decide.
Official web site link to  Blizzard Beach  HERE


AQUATICA
Aquatica
AQUATICA  Click image above  for larger photograph  re SeaWorlds NEW Water Park. This fantastic new water park opened in 2008. Check out the latest information on the Seaworld waterpark.Opened 2008
         
LEGOLAND WATER PARK
Legoland
LEGOLAND - New Florida water park openend May 2012. Click on the image for more info of this great addition to Floridas attractions.
          Opened MAY 2012

Falcon's Fire Golf Club
3200 Seralago Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-239-5445


Website

Kissimmee Bay Country Club
2801 Kissimmee Bay Cir.
Kissimmee, FL, 34744
407-348-4653
Website
Kissimmee Golf Club
3103 Florida Coach Dr.
Kissimmee, FL, 34741
407-847-2816
Website
Big Toho Enterprises, Inc.
101 Lakeshore Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34741
407-846-2124
Website
A Ultimate Professional Guide Service
1459 Riviera Dr.
Kissimmee, FL, 34744
407-452-6440
Website

Reed's Bait & Boat Yard, Inc.
20 Lakeshore Blvd.
Kissimmee, FL, 34741
407-931-2404

Red Lobster
5690 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-396-6997
International House Of Pancakes
5184 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-396-1500
Romano's Macaroni Grill
5320 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
 Kissimmee, FL, 34746
 407-396-6155
Our favourite Italian Restaurant, and close to the Villa
Website

Capone's Dinner & Show
4740 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy. (U.S. Highway 192)
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-397-2378
Website

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Ponderosa Restaurant
5771 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, FL, 34746
407-397-2477
Website

Lake Kissimmee State Park,
The park is named after Lake Kissimmee, the third largest lake in the state. This land was once used by Native Americans for its abundance of fish and game, making it an ideal place to live for thousands of years. The park offers outstanding fishing, bird watching, picnicking, camping, boating and hiking on 13 miles of beautiful trails. Nature lovers and photographers will enjoy the tremendous variety of plant and animal life.
This state park did (when we last visited) also feature a “Cow Catchers Camp” which was a great way for the children (and grown-ups too) to understand how the swamps and prairies of Florida were home to wild cattle (and the even wilder cowboys) who used to round them up to drive across the state to be exported to Cuba as beef in the late 1800’s. This reconstructed open sided chikki hut, with sleeping bunks, open fire with coffee pot constantly simmering, cattle corraled nearby and the ‘old timers’ ready to tell all who will listen of their cattle catching life and exploits (but only in their own period of the 1880’s) is a wonderful experience. Ring first to check whether this feature is still available.
 Directions:drive South of Haines City on US27 then to Lake Wales on S.R. 60, the park is 14 mi. northeast of the city.
14248 Camp Mack Rd.
 Lake Wales, FL 33898.
  Tel:863-696-1112.

De Leon Springs State Park.
Native Americans visited and used these springs as long as 6,000 years ago. By the become a winter resort promising "a fountain of youth."There is excellent swimming in the spring, which remains at 72 degrees year round. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals are available for exploring the springhead and spring run. Visitors can enjoy an outdoor picnic or dine at the “Old Spanish Sugar Mill” Restaurant where guests can make their own pancakes at the table. (Great fun for the whole family !) Directions: From I/4 N. of Orlando take SR.17/92, then S.R. 17 to DeLeon Springs, turn onto Ponce de Leon Blvd. The park is located at the corner of Ponce de Leon Blvd.
601 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
De Leon Springs, FL 32130
Tel: 386-985-4212.

Osceola Square Mall
Enjoy Kissimmee's only enclosed mall with over 50 great specialty shops, movie theaters and food court. Features Beall's, Upton's, Eckert Drugs, Ross Dress for Less, Morrison's Cafeteria.
3831 W Irlo Bronson Mem. Hwy
Kissimmee, FL 34741

Perfumeland.com
Is Orlando's leading perfume,fragrance discount outlet store for men and women. This perfume and fragrance discount outlet store is your source for discount perfumes, designer fragrances, discount cologne.
 Perfumeland stocks 1000's of designer perfumes and colognes including, Armani, Happy, Lancome, Chanel, Shiseido, Eternity, Baryshnikov, Beautiful, Coco,Curve, Giorgio, Pleasures, Joy, Eternity and many more at up to 70% off manufacturer's suggested retail price.
 More info

Sanford Flea World
is America's largest flea market with over 1,700 vendors. Open Friday-Sunday 10 AM- 6 PM. Flea World is located hwy 17/92 in Sanford Florida

Visitors Flea Market
Over 250 kiosks with name brand merchandise. Open 10 AM daily. Located at mile marker 9 on hwy 192(5811 W.Irlo Bronson Kissimmee)