Why self-catering in Kissimmee is perfect for your Orlando holiday

Thinking about a holiday to Orlando? A self-catering holiday home in Kissimmee, known as the big, bold heart of Florida, could be the perfect fit, offering all the space, privacy and perks you need for a brilliant break near the parks.

With some of our experts just back from Kissimmee, we asked them why staying in this diverse area is the ultimate way to experience Orlando.

LEGOLAND® Water Park

Where is Kissimmee and why stay here for your Orlando theme park holiday?

If you’re looking to stay near the magic of the theme parks without being caught in the hustle, Kissimmee hits the mark. It’s just south of Orlando, with many of its accommodations closer to the parks than some hotels in the city.

Tom Waite, our North America Product Manager, explains: “I’ve always loved Orlando, but Kissimmee just has a different energy. It’s got a more slow-it-down pace, yet you’re still right on the doorstep of Florida’s best adventures.”

Maxine Brown, Personal Travel Expert at Kuoni Bluewater, says that Kissimmee isn’t just about theme parks. “Kissimmee has fantastic golf courses, boutique indie shops and local-favourite eateries where you can enjoy seafood and southern comfort food. And don’t miss a visit to the Old Town district, with its vintage cars and classic boardwalk vibe.”

Old Town, Kissimmee

What types of accommodation can you find in Kissimmee?

Becky Allen Gurr, Personal Travel Expert at Kuoni Chester, highlights that Kissimmee is the go-to for self-catering stays. “Whether you’re after a villa tucked away in a quiet residential area or a resort complex with all the extras, it’s a relaxed place to stay with plenty to keep you busy.”

Executive Plus Homes Orlando Area

First, there are the holiday homes and villas in residential areas and gated communities. Eve Jetten, one of our North America Tailormade Travel Experts, explains: “These villas are graded by the number of bedrooms and décor style, so you can find the right fit for your group – whether that’s mod cons or fun extras like hot tubs and game rooms.” You’ll get an address and a security code for your home, and if you have a certain spot in mind, just chat with one of our experts – they’ll find you a specific villa.

Bear's Den

If you’re after a bit more buzz, Nathaniel Short, Personal Travel Expert at Kuoni Meadowhall, recommends resort complexes like Margaritaville Resort & Cottages Orlando and Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Sunset Walk. “You get the best of both worlds – your own kitchen, plus access to pools, restaurants and shuttles to the parks.” Maxine adds, “At places like Encore Resort at Reunion, you also have incredible extras like a waterpark, tennis courts and on-site dining.”

Aquapark, Encore Resort at Reunion

What are the benefits of choosing a self-catering stay over a hotel?

A holiday home in Kissimmee is loaded with extras that families and groups will love. “We had our own pool and lounge areas, which meant no waiting for loungers or crowding by the pool.” Maxine notes.

The value is hard to beat too – the bigger your group, the better the savings compared to booking multiple hotel rooms. And then there’s the flexibility of self-catering. “Having a kitchen was a game-changer,” says Tom. “We could easily whip up breakfast, pack lunches for the parks and on nights when we wanted to relax, we’d just have a barbecue or cook dinner together.”

Another big advantage? Having your own laundry facilities. You can wash and refresh clothes whenever you need, leaving more room in your suitcase for Mickey-shaped souvenirs.

Adventurer Themed Villas, Encore Resort at Reunion

Who are holiday homes best for?

Nathaniel shares, “You’ll find everything from studios and cottages made for two to 15-bedroom mansions. Some homes are less glitzy on the inside but still have all the essentials, while others pull out all the stops – think en-suites throughout, cinema lounges and themed kids’ bedrooms.”.”

These holiday homes are especially popular with larger groups. Not only do they offer fantastic value, but they also provide a sociable scene, giving everyone a space to come together while still enjoying the privacy of separate rooms.

Beach Drive Retreat, ChampionsGate Resort

What was your favourite place to stay in Kissimmee?

For a stay that combines character, fun, and all the comforts of home, our experts all agree that Margaritaville Resort & Cottages Orlando is in a league of its own. Eve shares, “Staying here felt like being in a vibrant little village. The cottages, sprinkled around sparkling lagoons, are packed with personality and come with quirky touches – like your very own frozen margarita maker. It’s way more fun than your standard hotel room.”

But it’s not just about the cottages – it’s the whole experience that sets Margaritaville apart. You’ve got resort pools, bars and restaurants, including the signature Salty Rim pool bar. Tom adds, “It’s an easy stroll to Sunset Walk, a lively promenade with great dining and entertainment. We loved hanging out at Estefan Kitchen, where Gloria and Emilio Estefan bring Cuban food and music to the heart of Orlando.”

Margaritaville Resort & Cottages Orlando

Exploring beyond your stay: how do you get from Kissimmee to the theme parks?

Staying in Kissimmee isn’t just about a comfy place to rest, you’re also close to the theme park action. Becky shares, “From our villa in Championsgate, we were at Walt Disney World in around 30 minutes and Universal Orlando Resort was a short drive too.

The convenience really makes a difference, especially with kids or if you’re planning to hop between parks. Nathaniel adds, “We had our own car, but many resorts offer shuttle buses, which is great if you’d rather not drive – plus, it saves on parking fees.”

Universal Studios Orlando

Can you combine a stay in Kissimmee with other popular spots in Florida?

“Yes! Beyond the theme parks, there are fantastic places just a short drive away,” Becky says. “You can hop on an airboat through the Everglades, paddle through Shingle Creek or spend the day at Kennedy Space Centre.”

Tom adds, “It’s easy to mix a stay in Kissimmee with other Florida gems. Hop on the Brightline train to Miami, fly down to Key West or soak up the sun on the Gulf Coast beaches of St. Pete-Clearwater or Sarasota. And if you’re in the mood for more, add on a Bahamas cruise or stop in New York for a taste of the Big Apple.”

Wild Florida Airboat tour

This feature was created on 11th November 2024. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of print. Feature by Heather Flanagan.