1881 Restaurant & Bar

Walk into 1881 Restaurant & Bar, and you’re stepping into a piece of Kissimmee history — served with a side of expertly crafted cocktails, of course! The Makinson Hardware building was the oldest operating hardware store in Florida after serving the community for an impressive 137 years. Today, 1881 Restaurant & Bar has breathed new life into this iconic space while preserving its historic charm. 1881 takes mixology seriously, offering bold twists on classic cocktails and showcasing locally crafted spirits. 

And what’s a great drink without some equally delicious bites? The 1881 Loaded Fries are a must-try, piled high with queso, smoky bacon, and house-made ranch. Perfect for sharing — though you might not want to after one bite!

Breeze Kissimmee

If walls could talk, Breeze Kissimmee would have some wild stories to tell. This one-of-a-kind bar is packed with personality — literally. Every inch of Breeze is brimming with character from the giant alligator skull to the zebra hide draped from the rafters. Keep an eye out for Norman, the bar’s decades-old talisman and unofficial mascot. But beyond the quirks, Breeze is also a tribute to the city’s past, with vintage maps and photos of influential locals making each corner a new story to discover over a cool drink.

If you’re in the mood to turn things up, Live DJs on Fridays and Saturdays keep the music pumping and the dance floor packed. And if you’ve had just enough liquid courage, step up to the mic for karaoke every Sunday. 

Vintage Vino

Looking for a romantic night out? Or maybe just a quiet spot to unwind with good drinks and great conversation? Vintage Vino delivers on both, offering a cozy atmosphere that makes every visit feel like an escape. Owner and wine expert John Siudut is at the heart of the experience, greeting guests with a friendly smile and fascinating stories behind each bottle. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just exploring, there's always something new to sip. 

Beyond its inviting atmosphere and stellar selection, this wine bar is always hosting fun and unique events.  Be sure to check out their monthly events, often featuring winemakers and sommeliers eager to share their expertise and passion.

Lewis Music

For music enthusiasts, Lewis Music Store in Downtown Kissimmee has been a family legacy for 50 years. The Lewis family started their business in 1973 because, at the time, one had to drive to Orlando to get any items for music. They continue providing services, products, and lessons to the community. They not only sell various instruments like keyboards, guitars, and the recently trendy ukuleles but also offer repair services for guitars. From sheet music to drumsticks and assorted instrument accessories, Lewis Music is a one-stop shop for both seasoned musicians and aspiring beginners. 

They have continued as a local success story because they operate by their motto: “Treat customers like we’d like to be treated.”

3Beez Honey Farm

Venturing into Downtown St. Cloud, 3Beez Honey Farm is a fourth-generation beekeeper's dream turned into reality. The farm proudly harvests honey from locally pollinated bees, offering an authentic taste of the region. What sets them apart is their diverse range of honey flavors, each boasting unique benefits. Wildflower honey is a natural remedy for allergy sufferers, while the spicy version caters to those who enjoy a kick in their honey. Beyond the jars of golden sweetness, 3Beez Honey Farm crafts soaps, wax candles, and gift baskets in-house. 

3Beez also provide honey to several local restaurants in St. Cloud. So, if you grab a bite at Catfish Place (definitely pour a drizzle on your hush puppies as the locals do!), Wing Alley, and Meat n Fire, you can get a taste.

Cloud 9 Marketplace

Downtown St. Cloud is home to Cloud 9 Marketplace, an eclectic store that embraces the spirit of collaboration. Different vendors showcase their wares, leading visitors to take home things like vintage items, aromatic wax melts, upcycled centerpieces, and art made out of books. The store's back area houses "The Black Squirrel," a used bookstore with free coffee and tables for local students to catch up on work. For those with a keen eye and a love for adventure, arriving at 4 p.m. might unveil hidden clues leading to a secret speakeasy within Cloud 9.

So, the next time you find yourself in Central Florida, take a detour and immerse yourself in the charm of these local treasures. Shopping small and supporting local makers often leads to the most unique finds and the best stories to take home.