Why Kissimmee is the Perfect Pre-Honeymoon Destination

If there’s one thing brides and grooms look forward to almost as much as their wedding day, it’s their honeymoon. There’s nothing better than leaving all of the stress of wedding planning behind and enjoying some much-needed one-on-one time. But there’s no reason a celebratory vacation can’t happen before the “I Dos!” In fact, more and more couples are now adding a pre-honeymoon to their wedding plans. 

For many couples, carving out time together for a short trip can be just what they need to let go of any wedding planning worry and allow them to refocus on what the wedding day is truly about—their love for each other. 

Whether you’re looking for romance, adventure, or a little R&R, here are all the reasons why Kissimmee is the perfect place for your pre-honeymoon.
 

Romantic Getaway

Not to be outdone by Charleston or Savannah, Kissimmee has a unique southern charm all its own. Swap out cotton plantations for orange groves, Spanish moss for towering palms, and low-country bogs for the endless headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Romantic and rustic, this is a side of central Florida you haven’t discovered yet.

Begin your pre-honeymoon bliss by booking a stay at the stunning Celebration Hotel. A designated Conde Nast “Top 200 Hotel,” the Bohemian invites couples to settle in for one-on-one time together in an ambient setting that combines classic elegance and turn-of-the-century charm, all set on a crystalline lake in downtown Celebration, the charming town built by Disney.

In between terrace drinks and live entertainment in the lobby, you’ll definitely want to plan a few outings in Kissimmee. Nothing says romance more than raising a glass from 1,000 feet above the earth. Schedule a breathtaking flight in a hot-air balloon over Central Florida with Bob’s Balloon Rides. Greet the sunrise and toast your upcoming nuptials while drifting over Walt Disney World, Kissimmee, and Orlando’s skyline.

Though your head might still be in the clouds, you’ll definitely want your feet on the ground to explore Kissimmee’s wonderful local areas by bike. Just minutes from the Bohemian, head to Celebration Bike Rental to explore the quaint, nostalgia-inducing streets of Celebration, discovering picturesque neighborhoods, and winding around the waterfront on scenic trails.

We’d be remiss to not to suggest a romantic horseback ride for two at Lazy H Ranch. Journey across the Kissimmee Valley along the stunning Lake Tohopekaliga and under 100-year oaks, stopping to hear about the region’s history and meet local ranchers.

Of course, all the stunning views and romantic escapades are sure to leave you heart full, but your stomach hungry. Whet your appetite with a fine selection of wines at Imperium Food and Wine on the shoppable Market Street in downtown Celebration.  Work your way through a carefully curated wine list, sip on local craft brews, and savor gourmet cheeses expertly paired with your choice beverage.

For more carnal appetites, indulge in an intimate dinner for two at STK Orlando where a contemporary club atmosphere meets classic steakhouse. Enjoy aged steaks, oysters, and bespoke cocktails—all complemented by lively beats and engaging service. As the night grows darker, pack into the House of Blues Orlando to sway together to the sultry sounds of the evening’s headliner.

Wedding Planner Tip:

The task of wedding planning can take a toll on your romantic life so use this time to reconnect as a couple before the busy weeks ahead. This can be the perfect opportunity to gain inspiration for your wedding vows so make sure to jot down any notes that come to mind during these memorable moments together.

Outdoor Adventure

Take a break from wedding planning and the everyday grind by getting back to nature and each other. Spend a few days soaking up Central Florida’s beauty with a stay at Lake Marian Paradise Marina & RV Resort. You don’t need a boat or a rig to stay, there are plenty of accommodation options for the non-RV set. The park has several cabins and mobile homes to rent, all complete with kitchenettes, grills, and a patio to take in the sunset over stunning Lake Marian. To make your stay even more convenient, additional amenities include a General Store, games room, laundry, and club house. Spend your getaway boating, fishing, and grilling the catch of the day.

There are more outdoor adventures to discover just a short drive away. Get up early and pack a picnic lunch for a day out on the water with the Paddling Center at Shingle Creek. Rent a kayak for two and explore the long, pine-lined waterways of Central Florida. Head out on your own adventure or choose a guided tour to learn about the area’s history and surrounding ecosystem. After working up a sweat, take a breather at the designated picnic area where you can rent a grill to have a fantastic BBQ in the woods. Explore the surrounding trails on foot with an invigorating hike and even opt to partake in a “Catered Camping” excursion overnight on Makinson Island. They’ll provide all the gear; all you have to do is take in the beauty of this 132-acre conservation area.

Of course, you can’t come to Florida and not meet its most famous resident—the alligator. Go searching for gators with an exciting airboat ride through the Everglades at Wild Florida Airboat Tours and Wildlife Park. Get an up-close look at gators, eagles, and native plant-life as you cruise through 100,000 acres of wetlands. Your tour also includes access to an amazing Wildlife Park featuring exotic animals such as zebra, emu, lemurs and much more. Cap off your day with a BBQ meal at the Chomp House Grill, where more adventurous palates have the option of trying everglade favorites, including alligator, turtle, frog legs, and catfish.

After a couple of days on the water, take to the trees with Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park. Fly through tall pine forests on Tarzan ropes, glide across the forest canopy by zip line, and test your balance on a series of obstacles—all from high up in the trees. With seven acres of park to explore, there’s a course for everyone including different elevations and skill demands. Test your strength and limits, maybe even challenge the fiancé to a friendly competition.

Daytime may be for outdoor exploration, but nighttime is for culinary adventures. Make a reservation and head into Lake Buena Vista for a night under the stars at Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. A unique and entertaining way to enjoy dinner outside, Disney’s Polynesian Resort plays host to an all-you-can-eat tropical feast and luau. Take in traditional performances including the Hula, fire-dances, drumming and more while you savor pork, ribs, and BBQ prepared the island way.

For a more low-key night that doesn’t include a Tiki drink, head to Big John’s Rockin’ BBQ to grab some authentic Southern-style barbeque take-out, along with a growler of local microbrew from Reprise Brewing for a night by the fire back at camp. After all, disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with each other is what your pre-honeymoon is all about.

Wedding Planner Tip:

Whether you’re engaged for a few months or a couple of years, the time you get to call each other ‘fiancé’ can go by in an instant. Use your vacation as a chance to let go of any wedding planning stress, and allow yourself to truly revel in your engagement and get excited for the next chapter in your lives.

Rest And Relaxation

Hit the reset button and recharge before saying “I do.” Wedding planning can be stressful. The last thing you need to worry about is planning an action-packed pre-honeymoon. Set some time and money aside to indulge in a little “us” time and leave your worries behind. The Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate is the perfect place to do so. Live the life of leisure at this sprawling resort that includes a championship golf courses, 15 acres of pools and recreation, and seven onsite restaurants. Wake up to a tropical-inspired paradise. Lounge in the 850-foot Lazy River, drink in hand. Greet the morning with golf and rejuvenate your weary bones at the signature Mokara spa. Enjoy a couple’s massage and order dinner in—you might never want to leave.

With everything at your fingertips, you surely don’t have to leave the resort. But, if you’re up for a bit of exploring there are plenty of no-fuss activities to take advantage of in Kissimmee. Peruse the stalls and vendors at the Kissimmee Valley Farmers Market, held every Tuesday from 3-7 pm, and buy fresh Florida produce, local goods, and speciality foods.

If nothing relaxes you more than a good retail therapy session, then you’ve come to the right place. St. Cloud, Kissimmee, and Orlando boast a number upscale malls including the Loop open-air shopping center and the Mall at Millenia, while Disney Springs and Celebration Town Center offer a collection of boutiques nestled among restaurants and other entertainment. Last minute wedding party gifts? No problem, with two Orlando Premium Outlets locations and the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, you’ll be able to purchase high-quality goods from the likes of Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and J Crew at bargain prices.

For simplicity sake, pick one area packed full of entertainment for a night out. Disney Springs should do nicely. Watch the sun set over the lake with a tequila-infused beverage at Dockside Margaritas. Then, cozy up in a sleek booth and savor modern Pan-Asian cuisine at Morimoto Asia for an intimate dinner in an upscale setting. If the last few days of relaxing haven’t lulled you to an early slumber, grab some tickets for a once in a lifetime opportunity to see Cirque de Soleil’s La Nouba. Climb under the white big top of the custom designed theatre to watch acrobats, contortionists, and entertainers perform a contemporary circus. Book your tickets early though, rumor is this show will be retiring at the end of 2017.

Wedding Planner Tip:

Finding time for wedding planning after a long day can be overwhelming, but talking over last-minute logistics while lounging poolside or strolling hand in hand is a totally different experience. Dedicate a few hours to nailing down those pesky details while far away from other distractions.

Feeling inspired to get away before your big day? Start planning your pre-honeymoon to Kissimmee, where getting away as a couple doesn’t have to mean traveling a long distance or breaking the budget. Check out our travel tips and special offers!