The West Side Story You've Never Heard

Think of Kissimmee’s west side, the tourist corridor that is, and its likely that souvenir mega marts, miniature golf wonderlands and rows of techno billboards come to mind. That being the case, we have a sneaking suspicion there just might be a few things you didn’t expect to find in the heart of “Toon Town.” You see, long before Mr. Disney came to town, this area was known for its “natural” attractions. Luckily there’s still a lot of that beauty left to see and enjoy. You just have to know where to find it! This suggested day trip will give you a look at the “real Florida” and a little history too! So take a step off the beaten path and discover the rest of the west side’s story.

For Those Who Seek The Unique on the West side of town!

9:00 am Boggy Creek Airboat Rides at Southport - offers a wind-in-your-face nature cruise across the lake's surface that leaves visitors cheering for more. Half-hour tours provide a close encounter with native wildlife including lots of gators. Reservations are not required. For more info call 407-933-5822.

10:00 am Horse World Riding Stables - a trail riding adventure on 750 acres of beautiful sandy trails and quiet peaceful countryside. Horse World Riding Stables offers a variety of riding experiences to accommodate riders of every skill level, including customized riding lessons. You’ll also get to feed and pet farm animals, play volleyball, and even toss some horseshoes. Horseback rides last 2 hours and reservations are suggested. Call 407-847-4343.

1:00 pm Lunch – After all that fun your probably pretty hungry! Looking for a suggestion? How about Sonny’s BBQ, Cracker Barrel Restaurant or Road House Grill? All are conveniently located on Hwy 192 along with a variety of other restaurants, cafés and eateries.

2:30 pm Tom Reilly's Flying Tigers Warbird Restoration Museum - Want to take a trip back in time? This wonderful museum manages to transport you back to the 1940's with its beautifully restored WWII aircraft. Take a stroll down the flight line, and you'll see B-25's, P-51's and C-47's, and even a mighty B-17 Flying Fortress. All of these planes have been lovingly restored back to the sky for you to enjoy. After the tour if you're ready for some action head next door to Warbird Adventures Inc., and they'll actually let you take a flight in one of their vintage aircraft. For an additional charge you can get yourself strapped into a T-6 Harvard, and find out why it received the nickname "The Pilot Maker". For more information call 407-933-1942.