Escape the crowds of nearby Walt Disney World Resort for a trip to Old Town USA Theme Park, a small, two-block amusement park and outdoor mall in Kissimmee, Florida, that revives the 1950s Americana-themed decor that once painted the landscape.
You’ll find nearly 50 shops dotting both sides of the lush planters that run down the middle of the complex’s pedestrian-only pathway. Colorful storefronts give way to a variety of shops, including those selling accessories, jewelry, souvenirs and men’s, women’s and children’s clothing. In typical Florida fashion, and with Lake Tohopekaliga only 15 minutes from Old Town, many of the stores sell gear for the beach and water, such as sunglasses, flip flops, swim trunks and bathing suits. There is also a vacation center where you can book hotels, area attractions and rental cars and a day spa that provides massages, manicures and pedicures.
Choose from more than 12 dining options scattered throughout Old Town, including full service, casual and fast food eateries. The range of restaurants on hand includes delis, pizzerias, burger joints and Mexican cantinas. While there is no designated food court, the majority of the sit-down restaurants lie on the north end of the thoroughfare. You’ll also find a handful of bars in that area, many of which stay open until 2 a.m., seven days a week. In the middle of the complex are a few kiosks or push carts that sell snacks, such as popcorn, candy and drinks.
Old Town used to have a collection of carnival rides, including a steel coaster, Ferris wheel and carousel, tucked away on the facility’s far north and south ends. In September 2014, most of the rides were removed to prepare for a complete renovation of the area. The site still has attractions, including a laser tag arena, the world’s largest indoor bumper cars track, a walk-through haunted house and go-kart race track. You can also visit the venue’s shooting gallery, mechanical bull and an arcade with more than 50 video and midway carnival games.
Classic car shows are a common occurrence at Old Town, taking place every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Stroll through the parking lot as you get up-close views of antique automobiles, hot rods and muscle cars from the 1950s and on. The site also has an outdoor stage in the middle of the promenade that hosts live bands during the car shows, typically specializing in oldies musical acts. On some evenings, dance instructors are on hand to teach the public old-fashioned dance moves.
